Prenatal massage
Congratulations!
You're already taking care of yourself, maybe better than at any other time of your life.
Massage is a delicious addition to all the other ways you're caring for yourself and
your baby. Massage is safe, effective, and comfortable for all stages of your
pregnancy, from those first heady days to the time when you're sure you'll never be
able to turn over in bed again!
For massage during pregnancy, you may choose positioning for your sessions -
either traditional front-and-back lying for early on, or lying on your side at any stage -
and plenty of supportive pillows and bolsters will hold you comfortably and
unobtrusively. Massage techniques will be combined and adapted, sometimes using
less pressure than usual; you will most likely still be able to experience your favorite
moves and maybe add some new ones!
Why should I have massage while I'm pregnant?
Especially at this time, massage is a lot more than a luxurious treat. This unique and
gentle form of healthcare can relieve many of the familiar discomforts of pregnancy -
backache, insomnia, edema, sinus congestion, even morning sickness1 and
breathing restrictions. In addition, massage seems to stimulate the endocrine
system2, helping to normalize hormone levels throughout this time of major bodily
changes, and may help keep blood pressure normal and stable3.
Last but not least, even this most joyous time can be stressful and very emotional.
Massage goes a long way toward relieving this stress, and this can actually help
pregnancy and even delivery, easier.
What about a high-risk pregnancy?
You can receive massage at your own discretion at any stage of an uncomplicated
pregnancy. If you are experiencing any high-risk factors, we can consult with your
doctor or midwife to arrange a way for you to safely and comfortably receive
massage.
Post-natal massage
Massage after the baby arrives helps get you back into pre-baby shape, addressing
postural changes, reconditioning loosened joints, and helping the uterus and
abdominal muscles regain stability and tone. Massage post-partum can be
invaluable "me" time during the busy first month. It has also been shown to mitigate
the effects of depression4, making massage a valuable ally in coping with Post-
Partum Depression (PPD).
1. Dundee, J.W., Sourial, F.B., Ghaly, R.G., Bell, P.F. P6 Acupressure Reduces Morning
Sickness. J. The Royal Soc. of Med. 81 (8): 456-57; Aug 1988.
2.
3. Fakouri, C., Jones, P. Relaxation Rx: Slow Stroke Back Rub. J. of Geron. Nurs. 13 (2): 32-
35; Feb 1987
4. Field T, Diego MA, Hernandez-Reif M, et al. Massage therapy effects on depressed
pregnant women. J Psychosom Ostet Gynaecol 2004;25(2):115-122.
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