Denise and her blog
The Benefits Of Using Complementary Therapies In Pregnancy
What are the benefits of using complementary therapies in pregnancy, labour and postnatally?
Complementary therapies are often dismissed as “just relaxation.”
But relaxation, at its most basic level, is a powerful clinical tool.
When we use approaches such as reflexology, massage, aromatherapy or acupuncture carefully and safely, we see a measurable reduction in stress hormones like cortisol. As cortisol reduces, oxytocin, endorphins and enkephalins increase - creating the hormonal environment that supports physiological pregnancy and birth.
When physiology is supported, the likelihood of intervention can reduce.
That means fewer inductions, fewer epidurals, and fewer caesareans - all of which can have a significant impact on parents’ experiences and longer-term outcomes.
Used appropriately, complementary therapies don’t sit outside midwifery practice - they enhance it.
They support physiological birth, improve parental satisfaction, and often restore midwives’ own sense of professional fulfilment in the care they’re able to offer.
This is why education, safety and scope matter so much.
Previous articles
The Benefits Of Using Complementary Therapies In Pregnancy
What Is Happening In Midwifery?
Evidence-Informed Education In Complementary Therapies
Happy New Year !!
Reflections
The Parlous State Of The UK Maternity Services – Is Midwifery Education To Blame?
What Should You Learn on a Midwifery Aromatherapy Course?
In Support of Home Birth
The Power of Essential Oils
Worldwide Midwifery Friendships
