If you are trying to conceive, reflexology can help to support you physically and emotionally. There is evidence to suggest that stress, which can adversely affect your health in many ways, may also affect fertility. Cortisol, a hormone released in response to stress can cause the release of an inhibiting hormone that reduces the production of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinising hormone. Both of these hormones are integral to the release of the egg and the implantation of embryo after fertilisation. Stress therefore may be very detrimental to the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy. Reflexology counteracts stress by encouraging relaxation and is therefore beneficial for conception.