Massage therapy is a hands-on type of remedy intended to reduce tension in the body. There are many benefits to receiving massage therapy regularly, such as reducing pain in tight, weak, or overworked muscles.
Not only can massage be very relaxing, but it safe and adaptable, and people of all ages and walks of life can benefit from it to relieve pain, tension, and stress. It can also treat structural problems and correct muscular imbalances in the body. For prospective mothers-to-be, prenatal massage benefits are numerous, and that’s what you’ll learn in this article.
What is Prenatal Massage?
A prenatal massage shares similarities to a conventional massage. However, one key difference is that pressure to specific areas is limited or avoided with prenatal massage.
The mother and the health of her baby will be a top priority. The practitioner will ensure that the mother is relaxed and healthy. Comfort is a priority, so the therapist will ask their client to sit or lie down in certain positions during the massage. The massage therapist will not apply deep pressure to the legs and the abdominal region to protect the mother and baby.
Prenatal Massage Benefits
Massage therapy has many benefits, especially for the expectant mother. Swelling, for instance, maybe reduced via prenatal massage therapy. Nerve pain is also something that pregnant women often suffer from, and prenatal massage therapy can help reduce this affliction.
Depression, both during pregnancy and after having given birth, is something that is concerning to the medical community. Fortunately, prenatal massage therapy may help reduce depression, anxiety, stress, and other psychological ailments.
Circulation is enhanced, as blood flow to all vital organs will be improved with regular prenatal massage therapy. Muscle spasms and tension are also very common during pregnancy, and prenatal massage therapy can help relieve this ailment.
One of the most significant benefits of prenatal massage therapy is optimized sleep. Many patients report enhanced sleep after receiving prenatal massage therapy, which translates to more energy during the day.
Is Prenatal Massage Safe During Pregnancy?
Some women may worry that getting a massage while pregnant can be dangerous to them and their growing baby. In truth, any massage that a skilled and licensed massage therapist does not perform can be risky.
The person who performs prenatal massage therapy should be a highly-skilled professional with several years of experience. Check online reviews, and ask your doctor for a referral to get the best possible treatment.
The first trimester, in particular, is a very precarious time during the development of a baby. For example, the risk of a miscarriage is much more significant in the first trimester than in the second. Most massage therapists will not massage a pregnant woman during the first trimester due to the elevated risk of a miscarriage.
Before you decide to undergo prenatal massage therapy, it is best to consult with your doctor or a midwife. You may have a preexisting condition or other health issues that may elevate your risk for complications during the prenatal massage.
Also, please speak to your massage therapist, as they will be more than happy to address any questions or concerns you may have about the techniques used and the possible risks involved.
How Massage Therapy Benefits the Baby
During pregnancy, the baby will benefit from an increased blood supply thanks to their mother. The same can be said during the actual labor process as well. The baby will also rely on the mother to have flexible joints, healthy skin, and strong muscles.
Another thing that many expectant mothers desire to have is a very close and personal connection with their baby as it is developing in their womb. A sense of affection can be felt by bonding closely to the baby as it grows.
Nourishment will also be enhanced when the mother is mentally and physically healthy and fit. A happy mother will produce fewer stress hormones, which means the baby will be more likely to grow into a healthy and well-adjusted adult.
Of course, the mother must eat a nutritious and balanced diet and avoid drug, alcohol, and cigarette use while pregnant. Taking prenatal multivitamins can provide nutrients the baby needs.
Using meditation, aromatherapy, and other stress-relieving techniques can benefit both the mother and infant.
Massage therapy can relieve stress, depression, and anxiety, all relatively common during pregnancy. Pregnancy can be an excruciating and stressful process, and prenatal massage therapy can address the specific issues or complications present during the 9-month process.
There are many massage therapy benefits, so please speak to your doctor or midwife if you are considering prenatal massage therapy while you are expecting. Your doctor may also recommend conventional massage therapy after giving birth to treat postpartum depression and help boost energy and fitness levels.
Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor
Massage therapy enhances the body’s ability to function as intended. Your body will operate in a more effective, efficient, and harmonious manner after you have undergone a few prenatal massages. Many women who experience prenatal massage therapy while they are pregnant report increased relaxation levels, as well as an overall drop in their stress levels.
Prenatal massage by a skilled and experienced practitioner can reduce the risks associated with labor. Suppose you’re feeling uncertain about whether a prenatal massage may benefit you and your baby. In that case, it’s best to speak to your doctor to determine your next steps, but chances are they’ll give you the green light.
