New research highlights benefits of reflexology on postpartum sleep

Becoming a new mum is a wonderful but exhausting experience. Sleep deprivation is one of the biggest challenges in the weeks and months after giving birth – and it can affect not only a mother’s health, but the wellbeing of her whole family.

A new systematic review and network meta-analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (2025) has shed light on the most effective non-drug approaches for improving sleep quality in postpartum women. The study looked at 19 clinical trials involving over 1,800 women and compared 13 different natural interventions.

Reflexology comes out top

The standout finding? Foot reflexology had the strongest positive effect on sleep quality in the first three months after birth. In fact, it ranked higher than other approaches such as progressive muscle relaxation, massage, and even cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBTi).

The researchers found that:

• Foot reflexology showed the greatest improvement in sleep quality during the early postpartum period;

• Progressive muscle relaxation and massage also performed well in the first few months;

• And for women further down the line (4–12 months postpartum), CBTi and light–dark therapy were particularly effective.

  
  

Why reflexology helps

Reflexology is a gentle, non-invasive therapy that works on specific points on the feet to help promote deep relaxation, reduce stress and restore balance… all of which are vital for sleep. For new mothers navigating the physical and emotional demands of caring for a baby, this natural support can be invaluable.

What this means for new mums

This research reinforces what many clients have already experienced: that reflexology can be a powerful, nurturing tool for better rest in the postnatal months. While more direct comparisons between therapies are still needed, the evidence suggests that reflexology could play an important role in postpartum care alongside other wellbeing strategies.

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