Prenatal massage is a type of therapeutic massage that is specifically tailored to pregnant women. Pregnant women can experience a variety of aches and pains during the later stages of their pregnancy, especially when their growing baby puts pressure on their other internal organs. Prenatal massage can provide relief from these pains and aches. Prenatal massage may even help reduce your risk of developing other complications by helping you relax and reducing stress. Whether you’re in your first trimester or third, prenatal massage can help ease swollen ankles, sore hips and an achy back. If you’re interested in learning about prenatal massage, read more about this beneficial practice.
What is Prenatal Massage?
Prenatal massage is a type of massage that’s customized for pregnant women. A prenatal massage therapist will use special techniques or add special oils to relieve common pregnancy aches and pains, such as a sore back, swollen ankles and cramps.
During a prenatal massage, a therapist will use gentle strokes to encourage blood flow and help relax your muscles. You can lie on your stomach or your side, depending on which areas you’re feeling aches and pains in. A prenatal massage is a great way to relieve stress, reduce anxiety and promote bonding with your baby.
Prenatal massage is safe for most pregnant women, including those who have had a miscarriage. A doctor may even recommend it if you don’t have an active infection in your uterus. Be sure to tell your massage therapist if you’re pregnant so they can make adjustments in their technique. You should contact for prenatal massage right away.
Who Can Benefit from Prenatal Massage?
All pregnant women can benefit from prenatal massage, regardless of age or health. Even if you have never experienced aches and pains before getting pregnant, a prenatal massage can help you prepare for the discomforts.
You may benefit from prenatal massage if you:
are pregnant or trying to conceive
suffer from scoliosis or other spinal conditions
have experienced traumatic birth or miscarriage in the past
have trouble sleeping
suffer from anxiety or depression
have a history of sexual abuse
have a weakened immune system
are experiencing depression or anxiety
are suffering from symptoms of PTSD
have a history of infertility and/or miscarriages
have chronic pain or injuries that have not properly healed
have difficulty coping with the stresses of pregnancy
have high blood pressure or a heart condition
have placenta previa
have low or high blood pressure
have diabetes (in any trimester)
have had a c-section in the past
have had a baby with a low birth weight in the past
have polycystic ovary syndrome
have a history of sexually transmitted infections
have a history of blood clots
have varicose veins
Why is Prenatal Massage Good for Expectant Women?
Helps to release stress and tension – Prenatal massage can help you relax, reducing stress and anxiety, two things that can negatively affect your pregnancy.
Gives you the chance to bond with your baby – You can slowly use prenatal massage to build a connection with your baby. Studies have even shown that babies can hear their mother’s voice during pregnancy, so you can talk to your little one while receiving your massage.
Helps to reduce aches and pains – Prenatal massage can provide relief from cramps, back pain and swelling.
Helps you prepare for childbirth – If you’ve had a traumatic birth in the past, prenatal massage may help you prepare for the next time.
Helps you recover faster after giving birth – Receiving prenatal massage during the last few weeks of your pregnancy can help you recover faster after giving birth.
How to Find a Good Prenatal Massage Therapist
Finding a good prenatal massage therapist can be tricky since the profession has no licensure or certification requirements. However, there are some things you can look for when choosing a massage therapist that specializes in prenatal massage.
Ask for references
Before booking an appointment, ask the massage therapist for references and talk to previous clients to see if they would recommend this therapist.
Ask what special techniques they use – Many prenatal massage therapists use special techniques and/or oils to soothe common pregnancy discomforts.
Ask what their massage philosophy is – You want to make sure that your massage therapist is knowledgeable about safe prenatal massage techniques and can answer any questions you have.
Make sure they are trained in prenatal massage – Many massage therapists have taken special courses designed specifically for prenatal massage.
Make sure they are insured – To protect yourself, make sure the massage therapist is insured.
Check for a license – Some states require therapists to have a license to practice prenatal massage.
Conclusion
Prenatal massage is a great way to relieve the aches and pains of pregnancy and prepare for childbirth. All pregnant women can benefit from prenatal massage, and it’s important to find a good massage therapist. Whatever type of massage you choose, it’s important to remember to relax, breathe and enjoy the experience. Prenatal massage can help you prepare for childbirth and recover faster after giving birth.
