A concept analysis: the effect of reflexology on homeostasis to establish and maintain lactation
Preliminary EvidenceIn Plain Language: reflexology, explained
The focus of this paper is to consider whether reflexology can have an effect on homeostasis to establish and maintain lactation. This complementary therapy encompasses the theory of holism to nurture the whole body, mind and spirit (Crane 1997). Parents experience many stressful emotions when their baby is admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), which in turn can affect the body, mind and spirit, often contributing to the reduction of lactation for the mother. This paper will utilize a concept analysis approach (Chinn & Jacobs 1987) to provide a focus and sense of direction to the discussion and exploration of the topic.
Key Findings: what this qualitative study found
- ✓Parental stress from neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission affects the body, mind, and spirit, which can reduce lactation in mothers.
- ✓Reflexology is proposed as a complementary therapy that operates through holistic principles to support the whole body, mind, and spirit.
- ✓Reflexology may influence homeostasis mechanisms that are necessary for establishing and maintaining lactation.
What This Means for You
While this analysis suggests reflexology may support lactation through stress reduction and whole-body wellness, the evidence is preliminary and based on theory rather than clinical testing, so it should complement rather than replace conventional lactation support.
What This Means for Practitioners
This concept analysis provides theoretical framework for how reflexology may support lactation in stressed mothers, particularly in NICU settings, but practitioners should acknowledge the lack of empirical evidence and work collaboratively with lactation consultants.
Common questions about this study
What does this study mean in practice?
While this analysis suggests reflexology may support lactation through stress reduction and whole-body wellness, the evidence is preliminary and based on theory rather than clinical testing, so it should complement rather than replace conventional lactation support.
What did this study find?
Parental stress from neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission affects the body, mind, and spirit, which can reduce lactation in mothers. Reflexology is proposed as a complementary therapy that operates through holistic principles to support the whole body, mind, and spirit. Reflexology may influence homeostasis mechanisms that are necessary for establishing and maintaining lactation.
How strong is this evidence?
This is a qualitative study and we rate its evidence preliminary. It was published in Complementary therapies in nursing & midwifery, a Q1 journal. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medical treatment.
Looking for a reflexologist?
Find practitioners who can help with the conditions studied in this research.
Find a Reflexologist