Being pregnant is not easy. Talk to anyone who has been through the process and they’ll fill you in that along with the joy of coaxing a new life into the world, you will likely experience backaches, stiff neck, headaches, swelling, and cramps–and all this leads to increases stress. Increased stress means you can be irritable and have trouble sleeping. So, along with the healthy glow, you’re secretly dealing with a lot of physical and emotional issues. That’s why prenatal massage is so important.
A skilled prenatal massage therapist knows how to help. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel better. Your therapist will conduct an interview to find out how things are going and how you’re feeling, and chat about your goals for the session. Then, he or she will take extra care to ensure your safety and comfort. They’ll help you onto the table if you need help, adjust your position (frequently on your side) and then carefully place pillows and cushions to reduce strain on lower back and pelvic areas and help you relax.
During the session, the therapist will work purposefully and carefully. The quality of touch is important. As you relax into the massage session, natural hormones like serotonin, endorphins and dopamine are released in your body helping reuse anxiety, stress and discomfort. You’ll communicate frequently with your therapist, ensurng maximum effectiveness for the session. You’ll leave feeling better, and enjoy the immediate effects of relaxation, like better sleep and a more level mood.
Prenatal massage is safe for most normal pregnancies, from the beginning of your first trimester through most of your second and third trimesters. Women with high-risk pregnancies, those with PIK, preeclampsia, previous pre-term labor, or high blood pressure should speak with their health care provider before receiving a massage. Any woman who has experienced pre-term contractions or consistent Braxton-Hicks contractions should alert her therapist to that fact so that certain pressure points can be avoided completely.
Select a massage therapist who is well trained and experienced in prenatal massage. Ask if they have received training beyond the national standards and know how to address specific pregnancy and massage needs and take care in sensitive areas of the body.
In the hands of a skilled therapist, you’ll be amazed at the relief you will feel. The benefits are many and routine massage during your pregnancy, along with the guidance and advise of a prenatal care provider, can help ensure you have a wonderful journey as you bring new life to the planet.
