•Pregnancy and Postpartum Massage
There are many benefits to receiving massage both during and after pregnancy. Prenatal and post partum massage have documented value and are perfect ways to reduce stress, relieve pain and promote general well being. It is a form of health care that brings balance to the temporary challenges of pregnancy.
During pregnancy a woman’s body experiences many changes. One way to minimize the physical and emotional discomforts of pregnancy and childbirth is to receive periodic massages. Back pain is extremely common in pregnancy, as well as during the season of breastfeeding or as a result of carrying small children. This pain can be relieved by massage to the back, the neck, legs, and feet. Therapeutic bodywork can also help alleviate leg cramps and swelling, induce deep relaxation, increase energy levels and relieve muscle tension in the areas most affected by the growing fetus and the mother’s shifting center of gravity.
Massage addresses a broad range of needs, from stimulating the circulation of blood and lymph fluids reducing swelling in the lower extremities, a common symptom during pregnancy, to helping to relieve depression or anxiety caused by the hormonal changes a mom may experience.
Massage during pregnancy is safe, effective and beneficial for women with uncomplicated, low risk pregnancies. Written consent from the prenatal care provider is needed for women with high risks, such as hypertension, diabetes, multiple fetuses, previous problem pregnancy, or those under 20 or over 35.
Given the complex changes experienced during pregnancy, it is best to seek out a massage therapist specifically certified in pregnancy massage. A therapist certified in working with pregnant clients has furthered their knowledge of massage by studying the techniques applied to pregnant women and has studied in-depth the process of pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period.
“A therapist certified in working with pregnant clients has furthered their knowledge of massage by studying the techniques applied to pregnant women and has studied in-depth the process of pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period.”