In recent years, prenatal massage therapy has been shown to be a vital part of prenatal care for women. However, women have often received conflicting information from the healthcare community regarding the safety and effectiveness of massage during pregnancy. Some research suggests that massage can be helpful in relieving stress and promoting overall health, but more study is needed to confirm these benefits. Pregnant women should speak with their healthcare provider before starting or continuing any massage therapy.
Advantages of Reflexology
Research studies have shown that therapeutic massage during pregnancy can relieve muscle aches and pains, as well as reduce the signs and symptoms of depression. One of the most popular massage techniques for pregnant women is Swedish massage, which has been shown to reduce muscle tension and improve blood circulation.
Expecting mothers who receive regular massages during their pregnancy have been shown to have lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol and epinephrines. They also have high levels of serotonin and dopamine, which are known as the body’s “feel good” hormones. This evidence strongly suggests that therapeutic massage, when incorporated into an average prenatal care routine, can give mothers a number of health benefits.
There are a few common conditions that can occur during pregnancy, such as swelling and edema of the joints. These conditions are usually caused by an increase in pressure on a woman’s major blood vessels from the extra weight of the uterus. Massage can help to release these stranded fluids and encourage the elimination of waste products from the body.
Sciatic nerve pain is a common problem for pregnant women, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. The weight of the uterus can put pressure on the muscles in the upper and lower leg, causing extreme swelling and pressure on the nerves. Remedial massage has been shown to help reduce this pressure and relieve sciatic nerve pain.
Precautions
Before you book a prenatal massage, it’s important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your obstetrician. Consult with a professional before adding massage to your pregnancy routine.
If you are pregnant and looking for a massage therapist, be sure to find one who is certified in prenatal care. These therapists are trained to understand the special needs of pregnant women and how to safely massage the sensitive areas of the body.
If you have a high-risk pregnancy, like pre-eclampsia, hypertension, previous pre-term labor, or severe swelling, you should talk to your healthcare provider before getting a massage. Massage therapists usually do not treat women in their first trimester of pregnancy because there is a greater risk of miscarriage during the first twelve weeks.
Prenatal massage therapy can be an extremely beneficial form of care for expecting mothers. It can help to improve overall health and well-being, as well as provide emotional support. When used in conjunction with other forms of prenatal care, massage therapy can be a powerful tool for promoting a healthy pregnancy.
As your body changes during pregnancy, you might start to experience some new discomforts, like back pain and anxiety. Therapeutic massage can be a great way to help reduce some of these discomforts. But before you book a session, be sure to check with your prenatal care provider to make sure this type of therapy is right for you.
