Massage and Pregnancy: Benefits for Mom and Baby
We know therapeutic massage in general has many health benefits for the mind and body, but massage therapy during pregnancy can be just as beneficial, if not even more, for both the mom to be and baby.
Studies have shown that prenatal massages have helped reduce anxiety and depression, relieve low back and joint pains, and improve labor outcomes as well as newborn health. It also helps reduce edema (swelling) during pregnancy, by stimulating and increasing circulation throughout the body, minimizing the amount of fluid collection in joints.
In addition, massage therapy during pregnancy is healthy way both physically and emotionally to help reduce stress and promote better sleep and overall wellness, relieving the many discomforts associated with pregnancy, such as muscle tension, leg cramps, insomnia and fatigue.
At Massage 1, our trained prenatal massage therapists know where a pregnant woman’s sore spots are likely to be and may be able to provide some relief. Likewise, they also know which areas and techniques to avoid. Still, it’s important to communicate with your therapist and tell them where you need attention. During the massage, pregnant women are kept in the side lying position, with the use of body pillows and wedges for support. Let them know right away if anything during the massage – including your positioning – is causing you any discomfort. We also recommend consulting with your doctor before receiving any pregnancy massage treatment, especially if you are considered high risk, have preeclampsia, or recently experienced bleeding, high blood pressure, or preterm contractions.