The stats behind reflexology for breastfeeding

Our reflexology socks for Pregnancy/Postpartum include a point that corresponds to lactation, which means we spend a lot of time thinking about the efficacy of postnatal reflexology in relation to breastfeeding. While we firmly believe in ancient philosophies and holistic healing practices here at The Relievery, we also appreciate the proof that modern science offers when it comes to complementary therapies. Because of that, we're sharing the research we spent the time digging up with all of you that tend to be more scientific-method-minded.

If you do a quick Google search, you'll find a study commonly cited in reflexology circles for an article published in 2000 saying that reflexology alone was responsible for an 88% increase in the milk supply of nursing mothers. We believe it! However, we can't track down the original source, and we believe in replication, replication, replication of results. So here's another study published more recently (2015) of 60 women in Iran. Of the therapies tested, acupressure was the most successful (education also helped). 

On a smaller scale, anecdotal evidence is abundant. Just do a quick search for "acupressure and breastmilk production" or "reflexology for milk supply" and find dozens of blogs discussing the topic. If you're interested in learning more, check out our digital subscription to unlock tools and tips for breast milk production and other ailments that afflict postpartum and nursing women.