For Ovarian Hyper Stimulation Syndrome and Fluid Build Up after IVF/ICSI/Medicated Cycle
WHAT IS ....
Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) is a beautifully gentle yet powerful technique that’s been making waves in complementary therapy circles—and for good reason. Developed by Sally Kay in the UK while working in cancer care, RLD is specifically designed to stimulate lymphatic reflexes on the feet, which in turn encourages the lymphatic system to function more effectively throughout the body.
WHAT MAKES REFLEXOLOGY LYMPH DRAINAGE UNIQUE ?
Targeted Reflexology: Unlike general reflexology, RLD zeroes in on lymphatic reflex points on the feet.
Clinical Origins: It was born out of clinical practice with cancer patients, particularly those experiencing secondary lymphoedema after breast cancer treatment.
Evidence-Based: Sally Kay’s research has shown measurable reductions in swelling and improvements in mobility and comfort
CAN YOU FEEL ANYTHING DURING THE TREATMENT ?
For the most part and due to the rhythmic motion of the routine, most clients fall asleep because the treatment is so relaxing.
However, it has been reported that a slight tingling can be felt in some parts of the body, particularly in the chest and head.
But the main effect of this treatment is that you begin to feel yourself again. There can be a drop in the fluid build-up almost immediately after the treatment and even more the next day.
WHEN DO I USE THIS TREATMENT FOR FERTILITY ?
In the context of IVF or ICSI, I use this treatment on clients very regularly as sometimes there can be a build up fluid around the ovaries and uterus from the stimulation medications. I would usually do this treatment after egg retrieval if the client has been informed that there is a build up of fluid around the reproductive organs. Reflexology Lymph Drainage can help to reduce fluid retention and the bloating feeling that comes with that. It will also promote relaxation, which may support your IVF/ICSI journey.
When I did IVF/ICSI treatments myself, I had a big fear of getting OHSS. As it turns out, it was nothing I needed to be worried about !! My response to the drugs was not optimal !!
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is a known risk during IVF treatment, but thankfully, it's relatively uncommon and often preventable as your clinic will be taking every precaution such as;
Carefully monitoring your stimulation drugs and how you are responding to them.
You will have regular ultrasounds to check on your progress.
And it is not unusual if your clinic postpones embryo transfer until such time as your hormones have stabilised, so your embryos will be frozen.
I AM A REGISTERED REFLEXOLOGIST WITH THE NRRI, NATIONAL REGISTER OF REFLEXOLOGISTS IRELAND, AND AS SUCH, PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE CLAIMS ARE RECOGNISED BY VHI, LAYA HEALTHCARE, AVIVA HEALTH, HSF HEALTH PLAN, ST. PAUL'S GARDA MEDICAL AID (from January 2025). I AM ALSO A MEMBER OF YOGA ALLIANCE AND SOME PROVIDERS ALSO INCLUDE YOGA IN THEIR PLANS. GIVE THEM A CALL TO CONFIRM YOU ARE COVERED AND WHAT YOU ARE ENTITLED TO.
I would be only too delighted to support you on your fertility and pregnancy journey !
Copyright 2025. Catherine @Soul Therapies MNRRI / YA ID 372068. All Rights Reserved.