Prenatal massage can ease some of the stress to your body that goes along with carrying a child. Consider the benefits and research your options to take advantage of a safe, relaxing, and therapeutic massage.
Let's face it-pregnancy isn't easy on the body. Your muscles can ache. Your skin stretches out. You may experience lower back and leg pain. You might also have trouble sleeping, or feel stressed and worried about becoming a parent and how your bundle of joy will affect your lifestyle. Luckily, many massage practitioners are now offering prenatal and post-natal massage among their therapeutic massage offerings. A knowledgeable, experienced pregnancy massage specialist will know how to work with a pregnant body, soothing your muscles and easing your mind without causing any additional discomfort or putting you or your baby at risk. Whether you're struggling with pregnancy aches and pains or are simply overwhelmed with baby preparations and need a break, consider adding pregnancy massage to your routine.
Physical Benefits
Therapeutic massage can help sore and tight muscles relax. The practice can also relieve joint pain associated with the increased load you're carrying around, as well as improving circulation. If you're experiencing edema due to the pregnancy, a massage therapist can stimulate your soft tissues to flush out excess fluids, relieving swelling. Massage therapy can also relieve sciatic nerve pain-common especially late in pregnancy-by loosening the muscles that are pinching the nerve. In short, if you go to a certified prenatal massage therapist and explain the physical problems you're having, the therapist should be able to use her expertise to find a solution.
Mental and Emotional Benefits
Massage has been shown to lower stress hormones, so if you've had a difficult pregnancy or you are overwhelmed with the idea of becoming a parent, getting a massage is a great way to relax. Make it a regular part of your routine to stay calm and focused all the way up to delivery. And not only does therapeutic massage lower anxiety, it can also improve your sleep; being well rested is vital in staying physically and emotionally healthy. Plus, you can't underestimate the value of doing something that's just for you, knowing that once the baby comes, your life will be primarily devoted to his or her care.
Considerations for Pregnancy Massage
Look for a massage center in your area whose therapists are certified in prenatal massage, for the best and safest experience. The biggest consideration for pregnancy massage is positioning and cushioning, and a certified prenatal massage therapist will know how to support and cushion your body on the table to keep you and your baby comfortable and safe. A properly trained therapist will also know what pressure points to avoid during the massage to keep from putting more stress on your body or causing premature labor.
Therapeutic massage is generally believed to be safe for women in any stage of pregnancy. However, if you're experiencing a difficult or high-risk pregnancy or suspect that your muscle, nerve, or joint pain is medical rather than stress- and tension-induced, speak to your doctor before starting a massage regimen. And if you find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable, don't stop going once the baby arrives! Post-natal massage is just as beneficial for your body and soul, for many of the same reasons.
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