Maternity Massage: Benefits of Prenatal Massage

Pregnancy can be a real grind on your body. Back pain, swollen feet and sore legs are just a few of the trials and tribulations that pregnancy brings. It can be a real drag, but here's a little good news: prenatal massage offers a myriad of benefits. Not that anyone should ever need an excuse to get a therapeutic massage, but studies show that prenatal massage can help to:

• Alleviate swelling, including joints
• Reduce nerve pain (that sciatic nerve can be a real sore spot during pregnancy)
• Improve circulation
• Reduce stress
• Improve sleep

While prenatal massage can be performed during all three trimesters, some experts feel that it should be avoided during the first trimester, so it's highly recommended that you get the go-ahead from your doctor before receiving a massage and that you find a massage therapist that is certified in prenatal or pregnancy massage. While massage has never been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, those who have a higher than usual risk of clotting or early labor should probably avoid it. Other conditions that are contraindicative for prenatal massage include:

• Chronic hypertension
• Diabetes
• Heart problems
• A previous miscarriage or problem pregnancy
• Asthma

Much like regular massage, prenatal massage involves the use of touch to ease aches and pains, increase circulation, and promote relaxation, but it's particularly designed for the changing needs of a pregnant woman's body. It's usually done with you on your side, and many practitioners that specialize in prenatal massage have a special table or pad, as opposed to a traditional massage table. Since pregnancy can mean an increased risk of blood clots in the legs, typically prenatal massage will avoid using heavy pressure or deep tissue technique on your legs, instead using light strokes, often known as Swedish massage technique. While some practitioners will avoid massaging your belly, many feel that light strokes and touch on you abdominal area can help to relax your baby as well. It's worth mentioning that since massage therapy often involves aromatherapy, you may want to mention to your practitioner if you're having any increased sensitivity to certain smells, although some essential oils that may be beneficial during pregnancy include:

• Tea Tree
• Mandarin
• Lemon

It's always a good idea to consult with your doctor and get approval before receiving a prenatal massage, and in fact, many massage therapists will require a written note from your doctor before your massage. It's also a good idea to be sure that the massage therapist that you choose is certified and experienced in prenatal massage therapy. You can check with one of the national associations to find a licensed, certified professional in your area, or ask your doctor, midwife or doula for a recommendation.