Prenatal massage
What is a prenatal massage?
Prenatal massage is a specific massage therapy modality intended to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and mobility, and just make you feel good as you go through the many changes and stages of pregnancy. Just like any other massage session a prenatal massage is customized to your needs based on the stage of pregnancy you are in.
Your body is just so beautifully made and knows exactly what to do to support you through pregnancy. The hormones relaxin and progesterone relax muscles and loosen ligaments and joints, especially in the pelvic area as early as the sixth week of pregnancy. The extra weight and body changes in pregnancy along with these loosened joints and ligaments can lead to discomfort and a change in your center of gravity causing a lot of tension and stress on your back, neck, abdominal muscles and shoulders.
Research shows that prenatal massage can help reduce stress, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle aches and joint pain, and improve labor outcomes, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Prenatal massage can also help regulate hormone levels, help blood circulation, and reduce swelling.
Benefits of Prenatal Massage
Reduced back pain.
Reduced joint pain.
improved circulation.
Reduced muscle tension and headaches.
Reduced stress and anxiety.
Better sleep.
When should you get a prenatal massage?
You can begin massage therapy at any point of your pregnancy. I recommend that your prenatal massage appointments coincide with your doctor visits (at a minimum). This means once a month until 27 weeks, twice a month until 36 weeks and then weekly until your precious baby is earthside!
Prenatal massage by trimester:
There are many different ways to get massages throughout pregnancy. Below you’ll find the perfect recipe I have found with my moms-to-be.
First trimester: 60 minute sessions focusing on supporting your body as the changes start happening
Second trimester: 60 or 90 minute sessions focusing on targeting trouble areas based on how the change in center of gravity has changed your body
Third trimester: 90 minute sessions, adding gentle stretches through the hips and pelvis to get you ready for labor.
Whether you are pregnant, planning on a pregnancy or know someone who is in this stage of life, consider adding prenatal massage to your wellness routine! Massage therapy is an emotional and physical health supplement shown to improve pregnancy outcome and maternal health.
Be Well,
Keyu