17/09/2026
Copied from The National Register of Reflexologists
A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis has examined the effects of foot reflexology on breastfeeding outcomes and postpartum comfort.
The analysis brought together findings from 3 experimental studies involving 260 postpartum women, including two randomized controlled trials and one quasi-experimental study.
What did the researchers find?
Overall, women who received foot reflexology showed better breastfeeding outcomes and greater postpartum comfort.
The analysis found significant improvements in:
âś“ Breastfeeding success
âś“ Breastfeeding satisfaction
âś“ Postpartum comfort
The researchers also found reductions in breast pain, tension and heat associated with the onset of breastfeeding.
In simple terms, when the results of the studies were considered together, foot reflexology was associated with greater comfort after birth and more positive breastfeeding outcomes.
The authors concluded that foot reflexology had positive effects on postpartum comfort and breastfeeding outcomes and suggested it may have a role as a supportive complementary approach during postpartum care.
For the reflexology profession, this is encouraging research. Postpartum care is an area where women may benefit from gentle, non-invasive complementary support alongside appropriate maternity and breastfeeding care.
It is important to remember that a meta-analysis is only as strong as the studies it includes. In this case, only three studies were included, so further high-quality, larger-scale research is needed to strengthen the evidence.
Research such as this continues to contribute to the developing evidence base for reflexology and its potential place within complementary and supportive healthcare.
As always, reflexology is a complementary therapy and does not replace appropriate postnatal medical care or professional breastfeeding support.
đź“š Research:
The Effect of Foot Reflexology on Breastfeeding Outcomes and Postpartum Comfort: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2025)
Link in the comments section below ⬇️
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