A prenatal massage for women provides comfort and relaxation for expectant mothers. This specialized massage aims to ease common pregnancy discomforts and provide a nurturing touch during this important time. Read on to learn the benefits of prenatal massage for women and what to expect during a session.
What are the Benefits of Prenatal Massage?
Prenatal massage offers many benefits for expectant mothers. Some of the top benefits include:
Relieves muscle aches and pains: Carrying extra weight in the front of your body shifts your center of gravity and puts strain on your back, hips, and legs. Massage helps relieve this discomfort.
Reduces stress and anxiety: Massage promotes relaxation and provides a comforting touch during your pregnancy. This can help you better manage stress and anxiety.
Improves circulation and reduces swelling: Massage enhances circulation and lymph flow to reduce common pregnancy swelling, especially in the hands and feet.
Promotes better sleep: The relaxation provided by massage can help improve the quality of your sleep. Quality sleep is very important during pregnancy.
Provides emotional support: The nourishing touch of a prenatal massage for women enhances feelings of nurturing and support during your pregnancy.
When Should You Get a Prenatal Massage?
Prenatal massage can be beneficial throughout pregnancy. Many massage therapists recommend waiting until the second trimester, around 14-20 weeks, before starting the massage. The first trimester is when the risk of miscarriage is highest, and some therapists prefer to wait until this risk has passed. During the third trimester, lying on your stomach becomes uncomfortable, so a side-lying position is recommended.
Always check with your prenatal care provider before starting massage therapy to ensure it is safe for your pregnancy. Let your massage therapist know how far along you are in your pregnancy before your session.
What to Expect During a Prenatal Massage
During a prenatal massage, you lie on a specifically designed table that has cutouts for your belly and breasts, so you can lie face down. Side-lying positions are used later in pregnancy when lying on your stomach is no longer comfortable.
The massage therapist will avoid certain pressure points that could stimulate uterine contractions. The therapist will also avoid massaging areas prone to cramping, like your ankles and hands. Lighter pressure is often used, but let your therapist know if you would like deeper pressure.
Your comfort is the top priority during a prenatal massage. The therapist will adjust bolsters, pillows, and cushions throughout the session to ensure you are as relaxed as possible. Let your massage therapist know right away if you experience any discomfort during the massage.
How to Choose a Prenatal Massage Therapist
When choosing a massage therapist, make sure they have received specialized training in prenatal massage. Most therapists learn pregnancy massage as an advanced certification after completing basic massage therapy training.
Ask trusted friends and your prenatal healthcare provider for therapist recommendations. Once you find some potential therapists, interview them before booking an appointment. Make sure the therapist has experience working with pregnant women and understands how to safely provide prenatal massage.
If you are in Philadelphia, you can contact Justin Shelley, a licensed massage therapist, for a reliable session of prenatal massage for women. Call +1-267-252-7658 to make an appointment.