Pregnancy Massage (Prenatal Massage)
Prenatal Massage as part of Prenatal Care
Massage has many benefits that can improve the overall prenatal health of pregnant women. Along with the guidance and advice of their prenatal care provider, pregnancy massage therapy can become a routine part of prenatal care. Prenatal massage therapy is an emotional and physical health supplement that improves pregnancy outcomes and maternal health.
My goal is to help you feel your best during your pregnancy journey. During your massage, you will be situated in a comfortable side-lying or semi-reclined position, with ample bolstering to ensure your and your baby’s comfort and safety. Depending on your trimester and any symptoms you are presenting, I will customize your massage specifically for you.
Benefits of Pregnancy Massage Include:
emotional support and nurturing touch
pain relief on weight-bearing joints, pelvis, and lower back
back, hip, and neck pain relief
preparation of the muscles and joints used during childbirth
lessened sciatic pain
Reduced edema
Reduced muscle tension and headaches
Reduced stress and anxiety
Better sleep
For your convenience, I have compiled a list of some of the most common questions about pregnancy massage.
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Pregnancy massage uses light yet effective pressure. Pregnancy massage is safe and can be an excellent addition to prenatal care if the mom-to-be is generally healthy.
Women can begin massage therapy at any point during pregnancy - during the first, second, or third trimesters. In most cases, it’s safe and beneficial to receive a massage up to and beyond the due date of the pregnancy.
If you are a low-risk pregnancy with no complications, you should obtain verbal consent from your prenatal care provider to give you the all-clear. If you have existing health issues or are experiencing pregnancy complications, you will need written permission from your prenatal care provider and provide this to me before your massage.
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Some therapists or spas may refuse to offer massage to a woman who is still in her first trimester because they wish to avoid any liability due to the increased risk of miscarriage during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. However, unless it's a high-risk pregnancy, there is little physiological reason to avoid massage in your first trimester.
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Women who have recently experienced bleeding, pre-term contractions, or have any of the following conditions should speak with a health care provider before receiving a massage and obtain written clearance.
High-risk pregnancy
Pregnancy-induced hypertension
Preeclampsia
Previous pre-term labor
Experiencing severe swelling, high blood pressure or sudden, severe headaches.