Prenatal Massage
Prenatal Massage Care
Prenatal massage can be extremely beneficial for both mother and baby. Whether it's a firmer massage to relieve lower back discomfort or a softer massage to help you relax, or reduce swelling during pregnancy.
Pregnancy massages are generally considered safe after the first trimester. Prenatal Massage is both safe and beneficial for the majority of mothers-to-be. Many expectant mothers have reported feeling relief from aching joints, lower back pain, edemas.
Prenatal Massage has many benefits. Your body undergoes some fundamental transformations including postural and hormonal changes, along with an increase in plasma and blood volume. Even your organs shift position as your pregnancy develops. Together, these effects can put significant pressure on the body, particularly on the spine, neck and weight-bearing joints.
A growing body of research indicates that regular Prenatal Massage provides a safe, drug-free, relaxing way to minimize and relieve the common discomforts of a developing pregnancy. Pregnancy Massage can improve not only your own physical and mental wellbeing but also that of your baby.
There are some instances when massage may not be appropriate, particularly in a high-risk pregnancy or with certain health conditions (diabetes or morning sickness for example), so we always advise checking with your doctor or midwife first.
Pregnancy Massage is performed on your side with pillows for support – this provides the most stability for the baby and is also most comfortable for you. The massage table is also designed to be propped up so that you can be on your back in a semi-seated position. It can also be elevated at the legs to reduce swelling.
Prenatal Massage is usually gentler than many other massage techniques. We often focus more on techniques that aid the circulatory and lymphatic systems, to help ensure a healthy flow of blood and reduction of feet swelling, and effective removal of toxins and waste.
Benefits of a prenatal massage
- Reduce back pain.
- Reduce joint pain.
- Improve circulation.
- Reduce edema.
- Reduce muscle tension and headaches.
- Reduce stress and anxiety.
- Improve oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles.
- Better sleep.
Contraindications
There are times when it is not appropriate to have a pregnancy massage if, for example, you are suffering from any of the following:
- Morning sickness or extreme nausea
- Heavy vaginal discharge or if it is bloody or watery
- High blood pressure
- Pre-eclampsia
- Diabetes
- High temperature/fever
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Vomiting/diarrhea
- Unusual or identified pain
- Contagious illness
We accept client/patients from the second trimester of pregnancy, book your appointment now!