Therapeutic massage has been used for centuries to improve overall health, reduce stress, and relieve muscle tension. Research shows prenatal massage therapy can help reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle aches and joint pains, and improve labor outcomes and newborn health. Prenatal massage therapy addresses different needs through varying techniques, one of which is called Swedish Massage.
Swedish Massage aims to relax muscle tension and improve lymphatic and blood circulation through mild pressure applied to the muscle groups of the body. Swedish Massage is the recommended massage method during pregnancy because it addresses many common discomforts associated with the skeletal and circulatory changes brought on by hormone shifts.
Benefits such as Hormone regulation Reduction of swelling, improvement of nerve pain.
The benefits of Pregnancy Massage
• Improved oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles
• Better sleep
• Reduced muscle tension and headaches
• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved circulation
• Reduced edema
• Reduced back pain
• Reduced joint pain
Other potential benefits of prenatal massage:
The benefits of massage can improve overall prenatal health for many pregnant women. Along with the guidance and advice of a prenatal care provider, massage therapy can be incorporated into routine prenatal care as an emotional and physical health supplement shown to improve pregnancy outcome and maternal health. Consult with your midwife or obstetrician before beginning any new therapeutic practice.
Prenatal Massage as part of your Maternity Care
Is Pregnancy massage safe through all stages of pregnancy and Postpartum?
Women can begin massage therapy at any point in their pregnancy – during the first, second, or third trimester. We will go over a brief health history and current pregnancy status to help determine what kind of massage and therapeutic applications may be best for you. We always ask if you are if you have any of these that we have a phone consultation before booking your appt.
Women who have recently experienced bleeding, pre-term contractions, or have any of the following conditions should speak with a health care provider prior to receiving 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
Postpartum massage can be as important and beneficial as massage during pregnancy. Postpartum bodywork is an effective and holistic approach for the many adjustments to motherhood. You may be surprised to receive much more than a spa retreat.
Massage is well known for relaxation, stress reduction, pain relief, and other health benefits. Unique postpartum benefits include hormone regulation, reduced swelling, better sleep, and improved breastfeeding. More advanced therapy helps restore your body to its pre-pregnancy condition, speeds healing and assists with C-section recovery.
Find a massage therapist who is certified in prenatal and perinatal massage therapy. The APA does work with some massage therapists who are trained to work with postpartum women, but it is still important to ask about qualifications.