Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage or pregnancy massage is increasingly gaining popularity as pregnant women begin recognizing the benefits prenatal massage has to offer women during pregnancy. Back pain is one of the more common side effects of pregnancy. Back pain can continue throughout pregnancy and even after. If you have to carry around other small children you may find your symptoms are exacerbated during pregnancy.

Fortunately prenatal massage or pregnancy massage can help relieve back pain associated with muscular tension. Here are just a few of the other benefits prenatal massage has to offer:

Helps relieve edema or swelling by stimulating circulation throughout the body
Leg massage can help reduce leg cramps and swelling in the legs
Beneficial for relaxing anxiety during pregnancy
May help promote more restful sleep and prevent pregnancy insomnia
May help with stress management – physical and emotional relaxation
Fatigue reduction – especially helpful for insomnia
Eases headaches
Increases flexibility – through massage and self care exercises and/or stretches
Helps maintain skin elasticity
Pain reduction – the hormone “Relaxin” causes a softening of joint structures and as the biomechanics of the body changes with the passing months, muscles can get overworked, stiff, tight & achy
Helps prepare for labour – as body awareness increases, so does your ability to identify tense areas and consciously release them through practiced breathing & relaxation techniques

Before signing up for a massage you should discuss with your healthcare provider to be sure your doctor approves massage therapy if you have any health concerns related to your pregnancy. Good communication between Massage Therapist and mother is very important. Although massage is healthy and pleasurable during a normal pregnancy, there are some conditions where adaptations may be needed. The Therapist needs to be informed of all changes, no matter how minor they may be, in order to preform the safest and most beneficial treatment.