"In Reflexology fortunately, there are highly trained, professionally rigourous practitioners out there. And it is to encourage more of them that this book, along with its accompanying training scheme, is now introduced. The book's gifted author Nichola Gregory is not only herself a prime example of such rigorous training, but she has had the courage to declare herself in print to insist on the raising of standards professionally in her chosen field. As a relational reflexologist working in private practice she is in an ideal position to persuade students to take the long, hard road to real qualification. Their certificate of accreditation will mean a true measure of expertise, ensuring that graduates take with them into their new practice a level of integrity and education bearing no comparison with those 'weekend' trainees still plying their trade out there. Nichola's passionate belief in improving both the standards of practice in reflexology per se, but also in training practitioners specifically who work with clients with sub-fertility issues, shine through this book. Recognising the vulnerability of such women, the need for extreme care in honouring ethical responsibility to them, is clearly a primary concern of hers. Movingly describing the isolation women feel when they have difficulty in conceiving a longed-for child, their bewilderment and distress, Nichola writes with great compassion and she uses their reported words in one chapter to great effect. She writes too of clinical, psychological and medical matters in a manner both clear and helpful. This is not only a thoughtful book, it is a timely one. Her fascinating research into the rise and fall of the ancient healing arts, where Christianity dealt them a near-terminal blow in the Middle Ages, compounded by scientists in later centuries, who nearly (but not quite) wiped esoteric knowledge off the board, is traced compellingly.That titanic clash between science and the ancient healing arts is, however, at long last beginning a new phase. Tentative it may be, but far more accepting of others' views, now that consciousness is coming more to the fore again. We have complementary therapy as part of our twenty first century lexicon, where qualified practitioners in all alternative disciplines are sometimes welcome to work in tandem with modern medicine. This is a good enough compromise to be going on with, each side actually acknowledging the value of the other. More doctors than ever appear to be accepting alternative healing methods (Chinese medical herbs; acupuncture; osteopathy; homeopathy; reflexology and so on), either because they are finally enlightened or overworked, or a bit of both. All this despite the anti-lobby, unhelpful whatever their rationale, be it political, fiscal or expedient. I believe there is hope for the future, when appropriate national registration and accreditation in all fields of complementary therapy will give more confidence to orthodox medical practitioners and thence the general public.But that hope for a more holistic approach to healing cannot become a reality unless and until complementary therapies are given the status they deserve. How do practitioners achieve such status? By embarking on a proper education for them and preparing to meet demanding criteria in their chosen healing discipline. Here I would flag up my personal crusade: to encourage students in all complementary therapies to learn basic listening skills, sign on for a foundation course (at the very least) in counselling from an accredited training body, and to follow Nichola's own lead in taking her earlier studies to the next level. May her book inspire students to do just that, ultimately to contribute their excellent professionalism to the entire field of complementary therapy." Rosie March-SmithReflexology/psychoneuroimmunology/stress/touch/therapeutic relationship/existential thinking/practitioner self-awareness/supervision/ethics

Reproductive reflexology is a minefield for practitioners with much conflicting advice being given in terms of what we can and cannot do. Many practitioners choose not to work with clients who are having difficulties conceiving or who are undertaking IVF etc as, either they feel too inexperienced or feel it is too complex for them and are not sure when and how to treat. The book provides a step-by-step guide, providing practitioners with a structured format on how to gain the information they will need from their clients, how to interpret that information, how to plan treatment and what techniques they will need to use.

This book is based on the RCOG Study Group findings on reproductive ageing.

Integration of complementary and alternative medicine therapies (CAM) with conventional medicine is occurring in hospitals and physicians offices, health maintenance organizations (HMOs) are covering CAM therapies, insurance coverage for CAM is increasing, and integrative medicine centers and clinics are being established, many with close ties to medical schools and teaching hospitals. In determining what care to provide, the goal should be comprehensive care that uses the best scientific evidence available regarding benefits and harm, encourages a focus on healing, recognizes the importance of compassion and caring, emphasizes the centrality of relationship-based care, encourages patients to share in decision making about therapeutic options, and promotes choices in care that can include complementary therapies where appropriate. Numerous approaches to delivering integrative medicine have evolved. Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the United States identifies an urgent need for health systems research that focuses on identifying the elements of these models, the outcomes of care delivered in these models, and whether these models are cost-effective when compared to conventional practice settings. It outlines areas of research in convention and CAM therapies, ways of integrating these therapies, development of curriculum that provides further education to health professionals, and an amendment of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act to improve quality, accurate labeling, research into use of supplements, incentives for privately funded research into their efficacy, and consumer protection against all potential hazards.

Aromatherapy is increasingly incorporated into midwifery practice, particularly in midwife-led units. It is the most commonly used therapy by midwives and birthing practitioners but access to up-to-date safety information is limited. Almost 90% of women may be using complementary therapies during pregnancy and birth and so it is very important that midwives are aware of safe and appropriate use based on contemporary evidence. This book covers safety, effectiveness, evidence, benefits and risks, and legal, ethical and professional issues related to incorporating aromatherapy into maternity care. Useful charts and tables are included for quick reference in clinical practice, making this is the ultimate handbook for using aromatherapy in midwifery practice. The scientific basis behind aromatherapy, including relevant anatomy and physiology, chemistry and pharmacology are covered, as well as a critical appraisal of the contemporary research evidence supporting the use of aromatherapy in maternity care. Essential oil profiles of the oils that can be safely used in pregnancy, birth and postnatally are also included.

The complete textbook on complementary therapies in maternity care, this book addresses how midwives and other birth professionals can use or advise on complementary therapies for pregnant, labouring and new mothers. Almost 90% of women may be using complementary therapies during pregnancy and birth, and increasingly midwives and doulas incorporate therapies into their care of women, so it is vital that they and other professionals in the maternity care field are aware of safe and appropriate use based on contemporary evidence. Therapies covered include acupuncture, herbal medicine, homeopathy, aromatherapy, reflexology, yoga, massage and hypnosis. This complete guide to complementary therapies in pregnancy and childbirth covers safety, effectiveness, evidence, benefits and risks, legal, ethical and professional issues based on accurate and up-to-date research.