Having a massage brings many benefits for both your mind and body, and if you’re pregnant, it can be even more relaxing, especially when you take into account the extra weight you’re carrying which can result in unexpected pains. However, you need to be aware of the pregnancy massage guidelines for expecting mothers to make sure that your experience is a safe and pleasant one.
What Is A Pregnancy Massage?
Prenatal or pregnancy massages have been specially adapted to take into account the changes in your anatomy as you progress through pregnancy.
Traditional massages involve you spending around 50% of the session lying on your tummy, face-down on the massage bed (a position that’s impossible after the first trimester) and 50% of the session lying on your back facing upwards, which is also inadvisable during pregnancy since it puts undue pressure on one of the major blood vessels that could prevent blood from flowing properly to the baby and that could cause you to feel sick.
A pregnancy massage therapist can adapt the massage to meet your changing needs by using a bed with holes that enable you to safely lie face downwards, or by using a special cushioning system. Alternatively, they may massage you while you lie, supported by cushions and pillows on your side.
Is It Safe To Have A Massage When You’re Pregnant?
Once you’ve past the first trimester, you’re generally fine to have a pregnancy massage, but it’s wise to check with your doctor first. You must also tell the massage therapist you’re pregnant. There are some pressure points that are best avoided during pregnancy since there is a small risk that they could trigger contractions. It’s also wise to avoid massaging the stomach since any pressure on this area could make you feel uncomfortable.
Pregnancy massage guidelines for expecting mothers also recommend avoiding any work on the deep tissues of the legs since pregnant women have a greater risk of developing blood clots and deep massage could dislodge one, causing problems.
If you’re suffering from morning sickness, diabetes, hypertension, preeclampsia, abdominal pain, fever, bleeding or any contagious virus, you should avoid pregnancy massage altogether.
Does Pregnancy Massage Offer Unique Benefits?
Having a massage during pregnancy can offer some excellent benefits. Not only can it reduce the stress hormones within the body, loosen the muscles and boost relaxation, but it can increase blood circulation too while keeping the lymphatic system functioning at maximum efficiency, something that’s crucial if you’re expecting.
Pregnancy massage can also help with issues like joint pain, insomnia, back pain, neck pain, sciatica, leg cramps, carpal tunnel syndrome, sinus congestion, headaches, or swelling in the feet or hands.
An added advantage of pregnancy massage is that it can bolster your immune function, which can often drop during pregnancy. Furthermore, it may even reduce your risk of developing postnatal depression. Evidence shows that touch and moderate pressure stimulates the skin, activating the nerve receptors and calming the mind.
Stimulation of the vagus nerve specifically helps regulate the function of the internal organs, including respiratory rate and heart rate. With this increased vagal activity, your nervous system slows down, while serotonin and oxytocin increase, acting as a natural antidepressant and giving you a mood boost.
A Relaxing Treat For Expectant Mothers
Pregnancy can be a joyful time, but it can present some challenges too. Coping with your changing body and the aches and pains associated with growing a baby, paired with stress and worries about the birth can lead to some difficult times over the nine months. However, having a pregnancy massage can be a wonderfully relaxing treat.
An expert therapist will know the most effective and safe techniques to use to ensure optimal relaxation and well-being so you feel pampered, de-stressed, and free of the aches and pains associated with pregnancy. By following the pregnancy massage guidelines for expecting mothers, you can also rest assured that you and your baby will be in the safest possible hands.
