Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also be a physically and emotionally exhausting one. Prenatal massages offer expectant mothers a safe, soothing and supportive sanctuary of relaxation and relief. By promoting relaxation, reducing muscle tension and improving circulation, a prenatal massage supports the mother’s well-being throughout the entire pregnancy, labor and postpartum phase.
There are many benefits of receiving a massage while pregnant, but it is important to have a certified prenatal therapist who understands the unique body changes that occur during pregnancy and who can adapt the treatment to the specific needs of each client.
The most common reason that women seek out massages during pregnancy is to gain relief from back pain, which can be caused by the shift in center of gravity as the baby grows. Prenatal massages can help ease back pain, as well as pain in the hips and legs, which are often aggravated by the extra weight and swelling that occurs with pregnancy.
In addition to relieving back pain, prenatal massages can help relieve anxiety and depression, and they can encourage the release of endorphins, which can boost mood and overall wellbeing. Pregnancy is a stressful period, and research has shown that women who are stressed during pregnancy have higher rates of complications during delivery, such as high blood pressure and premature births.
A prenatal massage typically takes place in a side-lying position, with the use of bolsters and other pillows to support the pregnant woman’s comfort. This is important, as lying on the stomach in later trimesters of pregnancy can cause a compression of the blood vessels, which can lead to reduced oxygen supply to the placenta and potentially create a life-threatening situation for both mom and baby.
The massage technique itself is similar to regular Swedish massage, though the therapist will avoid pressure on the abdominal area and will generally avoid the ankles (which have pressure points that can stimulate contractions and increase the risk of complications such as preeclampsia and blood clots). In general, deep tissue massage should be avoided for the same reasons, since it can dislodge a blood clot or induce labor.
Some women may experience headaches during pregnancy, which can be caused by stress, the changing hormone levels or the increased weight on the head. Prenatal massage can help reduce these headaches by alleviating the tight muscles around the neck and scalp.
When choosing a massage therapist, make sure she is certified in prenatal techniques and works from a clean, hygienic shop that has appropriate facilities for pregnancy massage, including a massage table with a firm but comfortable surface that can be raised or lowered to accommodate the different stages of pregnancy. Some insurance plans cover the cost of prenatal massages.
Before you book your next massage, consult with your physician or midwife to see if it is safe for you to receive one. Some therapists may want to get a clearance from your doctor or midwife before you get a massage, and some clinics have a list of doctors who approve their patients for massage therapy.
Body Mechanics Orthopedic Massage
1 W 34th St. # 204,
New York, NY 10001, United States
(212) 884-1010