Massage therapy has many benefits for the average individual and especially during pregnancy.
During pregnancy, women go through a host of physical and mental changes, which can create new pains and stressors for mom’s-to-be. Thankfully, massage is one safe tool, that can benefit both the physical and mental stressors experienced during pregnancy.
Massage can decrease stress and muscle tension, can lead to a reduction in anxiety, and often results in an improvement in mood.
Normal Physical and Mental Pregnancy Changes
Physically there are many changes that happen during pregnancy. Normal weight gain causes the pelvis to shift which can lead to discomfort in the low back or pelvis. With increased relaxin (a hormone that increases flexibility) during pregnancy, women are more flexible than usual which can sometimes lead to additional strains on ligaments and cause discomfort. As the belly grows, sleep can be disturbed as finding a comfortable position becomes more challenging.
Emotionally, there can be a whole host of feelings and experiences that women endure during pregnancy. Anxiety and stress can often aggravate sleep and/or cause extra tension in muscles.
All these symptoms can be improved with massage!
Massage during pregnancy can decrease muscle tension, alleviate the everyday discomforts of pregnancy such as an aching neck and sore back, and improve swelling of the ankles and feet. Stress hormones within the body can also be reduced, leading to an overall sense of wellbeing and improved quality of sleep. Additionally, many women feel energized following a massaged – a well deserved benefit!
When to be cautious with pregnancy massage:
Your practitioner will work to ensure you get the most benefit from your prenatal massage. Depending on the stage of pregnancy you are in, your RMT will adjust your position to offer the most comfort during your treatment. However, some symptoms to be cautious with include:
- If you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, or morning sickness – you may want to start with a shorter massage or adjust positioning to ensure you don’t feel nauseous during the treatment
- If you are at high risk of miscarriage, please consult with your MD to ensure massage is appropriate
- If you other high risk concerns (which as placental abruption), please consult with your MD to ensure massage is appropriate
For all the mamas-to-be out there, we’ve got your back! We’re here to help make your pregnancy as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, so take a break, let us lower your stress, and ease those aching muscles.
Click here to get started with booking your Prenatal Massage appointment.
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