Pregnancy is a miraculous process of creation, growth and transformation, during which the body goes through many changes – hormonal and mental in addition to the more obvious physical changes.
What is a pregnancy massage?
Pregnancy Massage, sometimes called Prenatal Massage, is a peaceful treatment that works deeply but gently to relieve the special pains of pregnancy.
This treatment is carried out in the side-lying position. Pregnancy Massage will help release tension in the shoulders, lower back and legs. It is a safe and supportive therapy for women, suitable from 14 weeks to full term. Pregnancy Massage helps mums to be relax and reduce the impact of stress on their bodies. Therapeutic touch can help relieve many of the aches and pains that accompany that growing belly and the resulting postural distortions.
Many women seek out pregnancy massage when the discomforts of the last few months of pregnancy become unbearable, but the real benefits are gained from more regular sessions throughout the pregnancy.
What to expect
A typical pregnancy massage lasts for 30 or 60minutes. During this time you will lie on the massage couch on your side in a warm room, supported by soft pillows. You will be covered by towel and only the body part being worked on will ne exposed at any one time. Calming music can be played during the session. It is generally best to avoid eating a large meal or drinking a lot of liquid before the massage.
Benefit of a pregnancy massage
- reduce back pain and ease general aches and pains caused by pregnancy
- encourage better sleep
- lower levels of stress hormones
- reduce blood pressure
- improve circulation
- improve fetal nourishment
- improve mood, reduce anxiety
- enhance health and nourishment of the skin
- boost energy levelst
- deep relaxation
There are few health conditions, which I would advise a pregnant women to speak with her doctor before she will receive a massage:
- High risk pregnancy
- Pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH)
- Preeclampsia
- Previous pre-term labor
- Experiencing severe swelling, high blood pressure, or sudden, severe headaches
Recently gave birth
