A prenatal massage is a therapeutic approach performed by a specialist during pregnancy. It aims to address symptoms due to the specific changes in a female body occurring in the prenatal period (before giving birth).
It’s typical for pregnant women to experience various symptoms like pain, swelling, overall fatigue, muscle weakness, and excessive stress. Although there aren’t conclusive studies on the benefits of massage therapy in these cases, there’s evidence that it can alleviate some of the symptoms associated with pregnancy.
While some people think that pregnant women shouldn’t get massages because that might lead to miscarriage, such therapy is usually risk-free. In fact, it might be a brilliant way to make your pregnancy much more manageable and comfortable.
Read on to find out everything you need to know about pregnancy massages, how they can ease your symptoms, and how they vary from regular massages.
Common Symptoms Experienced During Pregnancy
There’s a wide range of symptoms that women might experience during pregnancy. These arise for various reasons including physiological fluid retention, uterine growth, and hormonal changes.
- Swelling
Mild-to-moderate swelling is almost always present, especially in the third trimester, when the fetus has grown significantly. Standing for long periods and tight clothing also play a considerable role.
- Leg, Back, or Other Type of Pain
During pregnancy, it’s normal for your newly gained weight and body changes to put considerable amounts of pressure on your joints, primarily in the ankles, knees. and spine. This can cause significant discomfort and pain.
- Excessive Stress
Mood swings, irritability, and anxiety are exceedingly common during pregnancy because of the physiological changes in the levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
How Prenatal Massages Can Help You
Finding a great practitioner is the key to the success of any massage therapy.
A well-versed therapist will apply very gentle pressure on the affected areas like the feet, back, neck, and shoulders. These techniques can effectively relieve pain and swelling in your knee, joints, etc., making you feel like a new person.
Additionally, pregnancy massages can positively affect your hormone levels. Studies suggest that they may reduce stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol that contribute to depression and anxiety. On the other hand, massages may increase dopamine and serotonin, which are hormones associated with pleasurable sensations.
Furthermore, you may notice an improvement in your sleeping pattern which can improve your overall mood.
How Prenatal Massages Differ From Regular Ones
- Body Positioning
Body positioning is crucial for an effective and pleasant pregnancy massage.
Lying on your belly is difficult and not recommended, especially in advanced pregnancy. Therefore, the therapist will most likely have you lie down on your side. Additionally, they may use pillows or padding to support your back and other areas to make you feel more comfortable.
- Massage Techniques
The so-called Swedish massage is among the most common techniques used for pregnant women. It involves long muscle strokes to ease tension and pain.
Applying pressure or tapping on specific acupuncture points, known as Shiatsu, is another recommended technique. Although deep tissue massage is generally considered safe, some experts avoid it because of associated potential risks.
Book Your Appointment Today!
Receiving a pregnancy massage from an inexperienced person at home isn’t advised and should be avoided. Instead, your best bet would be to opt for a specialist who knows their craft well.
If you want to learn more about the benefits of prenatal massage and other techniques, or you’ve already decided to give it a try, then schedule an appointment at My Physio Sports & Rehab Center today!
Call us at 905-850-6683 or book an appointment online.