Pregnancy Massage Therapy
What is it? A woman’s health during pregnancy is a result of the varying changes the body brings about in a pregnant woman. Increased weight, shifting posture, and adjusting hormone levels lead to an overall change on the physical and emotional front for the pregnant woman. Every single pregnant woman goes through her share of discomforting and stressful moments. Pregnancy Massage or Pre-natal massage, as it is popularly known helps relieve fatigue, relieve general body ache and induce sleep in pregnant woman. Prenatal massage is a natural; touch therapy treatment aimed at alleviating these and other pregnancy related symptoms.
What are the benefits of a Prenatal Massage? Pregnancy massage or Prenatal massage offers a wide range of benefits, which include the following:
- Eases backaches, headaches, shoulder and neck aches that may be caused by muscle tension and shifts in posture to accommodate increasing weight.
- Decreases pain in the pelvic/hip area.
- Increases circulation.
- Improves digestion.
- Reduces fatigue.
- Improves skin elasticity that can help reduce stretch marks.
- Helps reduce swelling in such places as hands and lower legs.
- Can alleviate the stress on weight-bearing joints, like the knees, which are impacted by the extra weight of a growing baby.
- Promotes relaxation and deep breathing.
- Helps stabilize hormone levels by lessening anxiety.
What are the different types of massage therapies rendered to pregnant woman? Various techniques are blended to give a massage, the most popular techniques include: deep tissue massage, myofascial release, reflexology, Swedish massage, joint mobilization, or connective tissue massage.
When should one avoid a pregnancy massage?
- All expectant mothers should check with their doctors prior to getting a massage.
- Pre-natal massage may not be recommended to expectant mothers having diabetes or high blood pressure.
It is important to share information about your condition and your preferences with your pregnancy massage therapist so that he can a render a massage suitable to your personal needs and preferences.