Prenatal Massage for the Healthy Mom and Baby

Date Posted:18 September 2017

Prenatal massage is designed for expecting mothers. It can be received at any time during their pregnancy. Professionals gain a specific training in this field to offer comfort to the would-be-mothers and the baby.

They are given massage in a side position with pillows and bolsters offered for support and comfort. There are different treatments involved, such as Swedish massage, joint mobilization, foot zone therapy, and connective tissue to alleviate the physiological, muscular-skeletal, and emotional stresses of pregnancy.    

Modern research has shown that prenatal massage therapy can be an influential ingredient in women’s prenatal care and should be considered by expectant mothers. It can decrease anxiety, cut down the symptoms of depression, ease muscle aches and joint pains, improves labour, and lends a boost to the newborn’s health. It can address different needs through varying techniques.  

One of these techniques is Swedish massage. Swedish massage can ease muscle tension. It also improves lymphatic and blood circulation by applying mild pressure to the body’s muscle groups. It is recommended during pregnancy because it can address several discomforts related to skeletal and circulatory changes brought on by hormone shifts.

 

                  

 

Hormone regulation- Prenatal massage can work to regulate hormone levels associated with relaxation and stress. It can boost the moods of pregnant women and improve cardiovascular health. Prenatal massage can reduce norepinephrine and cortisol levels, whereas it increases dopamine and serotonin levels.

Reduction of swelling- Joint swelling is common during pregnancy and is often caused by reduced circulation and increased pressure on the major blood vessels by the heavy uterus. Prenatal massage can stimulate soft tissues to lessen fluids collection in swollen joints. It can also improve the removal of waste carried by body’s lymph system.

Improvement of nerve pain- Sciatic nerve pain is experienced by women in late pregnancy due to the pressure from the uterus on pelvic muscles and lower back. Prenatal massage therapy can address inflamed nerves by releasing tension on nearby muscles. Massage has helped many women to experience a significant improvement in sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy. It has offered a gamut of other potential benefits, like:

  1. Reduced back pain

  2. Improved circulation

  3. Reduced joint pain

  4. Reduced muscle tension and headaches

  5. Improved oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles

  6. Reduced edema

  7. Reduced stress and anxiety

  8. Better sleep

Precautions for Prenatal Massage

Of course, an expectant mother should always do her homework before seeking out a massage by taking to her doctor to see if it’s an option for her.   She will also want to watch out for these things:

  • Body position during prenatal massage- The best position for a pregnant woman during massage is on her side. It is vital for you to confirm with the masseuse about the positions they use for expectant mothers.  

  • Look for a professional massage therapist- Seek the assistance of a certified prenatal massage therapist who knows how to address specific pregnancy and massage needs. He should be aware of how to position you safely and prevent strain to uterine ligaments. He should also be able to watch for symptoms of varicose veins and blood clots.

Pregnant women can start massage therapy at any time, no matter if they are in their first, second, or third trimester. It’s something all expectant mothers should check out. As you’ve learned in this article, prenatal massage can provide tremendous benefits to both expectant mother and baby.