Massage feels fantastic and is beneficial at any time; but if you are expecting, it can feel even better. Whether you are in your first trimester and feeling the first small changes in your body, or you are further along and it feels like every day you have a new ache or pain, prenatal massage can help ease the discomfort of these very necessary changes happening in your body.
No matter what the concern, there are lots of adaptations I can make for an expecting mom. Before each treatment, please keep me up to date on changes in your pregnancy. Whether that be Braxton Hicks, blood pressure, swelling, etc. This way, I can adapt each treatment to what you are feeling at that particular time in a safe manner.
After the first trimester, I have the client lay on their left side for treatment. I use lots of pillows to put here and there to make sure the expectant mom is comfortable at all times. By using lots of pillows and blankets, I am using what everyone already has at home. No need for anything fancy. This way I can help my clients find that comfortable sleeping position for the next few weeks until we need to adapt to the changing body.
As the pregnancy progresses, our focus may change from back, neck and shoulders to the addition of the treatment of hips, glutes, legs and feet. I will adapt your treatment to your needs as your needs change. Most of my clients love for me to finish with neck, shoulders and head as usual. With being pregnant, being on your back can get uncomfortable. While on your back, we put a pillow under the right hip to ensure your comfort and keep good blood flow. The last trimester can get incredibly exciting, not only big changes in the body of the expectant mother, but big changes in the little one inside as well. This is when we can incorporate baby massage in to the treatment.
Baby’s first massage can happen inutero. It is a great bonding experience for mom and partner to learn how to massage the little one before baby enters the world.
It is a great bonding experience for mom and partner to learn how to massage the little one before baby enters the world. It is a wonderful routine to continue after the birth as well. Baby will already be accustomed to the touch of Mom and her partner as well. Not only can your baby hear you, but they can feel your touch as well.
Here at Sprout Wellness Clinic, there are many services available to expecting families. 
- Dr. Chanel Cressman, ND can offer a wide range of supports from labour induction acupuncture, to nutritional guidance, or alternatives for group B strep infections.
- Andrea Hauser, Hom offers acute Homeopathic visits in which she can guide you with safe, gentle, options for treatment of any symptom, from nausea to constipation or hemorrhoids.
As a Registered Massage Therapist, prenatal massage is a great joy and honour. I get to know a mother and baby in such a unique way. What better way to get to know your new little one, but with the power of touch.
Angela Gibson, RMT
Leave a Reply