Alternative methods of relaxation: Healthy Pregnancy

Last year midwives at Watford Hospital recruited more than 600 pregnant women to take part in a research project, writes Lee Rodwell. The results - now awaiting publication - will be of interest to those who believe massaging the perineum with almond oil can reduce tearing or the need for an episiotomy when the baby is born.

A growing number of women are interested in the use of such "natural" ways to have a trouble-free pregnancy and labour. However, not all "natural" remedies are safe in pregnancy.

Although herbs have been used for centuries, they can have powerful effects. Similarly, some aromatherapy oils can be harmful. Others may cause blotching if your skin is exposed to sunlight. With acupressure (and acupuncture) care must be taken, particularly in early pregnancy, not to stimulate certain pressure points which might, in turn, stimulate the uterus.

Seek qualified advice before you embark on any treatment; make sure your practitioner is qualified and that they know how far advanced your pregnancy is. Tell you midwife or doctor what therapies you propose to use.

To find an alternative practitioner you can contact The Institute for Complementary Medicine PO Box 194, London SE16 1QZ (0171-237 5165). Your Natural Pregnancy by Anne Charlish (Boxtree pounds 12.99) is a guide to natural therapies for use in pregnancy and childbirth.

What are the alternatives - and how can they help?

t The Alexander Technique can help women adapt the way they move as they change shape, thus avoiding backache. It can also be used to prepare for labour by teaching ways of releasing tension.

t Autogenic training involves a carefully designed sequence of mental exercises which allow the mind to calm itself by switching off the the body's stress response. AT can be particularly effective in the first stage of labour, helping women to cope with contractions without drugs.

t Aromatherapy, acupuncture, herbal remedies and homoeopathy have all been used to treat the common problems of pregnancy. Acupuncture can also be used for pain relief in labour.

t Chiropractic and osteopathy can relieve back pain.

t Colour therapy may help with relaxation or insomnia.

t Homoeopathy and some herbal remedies may be used to encourage the natural progression of labour.

t Reflexology can help reduce stress and anxiety and is used to treat fatigue, sickness, swollen ankles and constipation.

t Yoga can increase strength and suppleness as well as teaching relaxation and effective breathing.

Lee Rodwell is the author of Natural Pregnancy, to be published by Salamander in the spring.