Massage treatment is one of the earliest recognized medical procedures. It has a long history of being used by expectant and laboring women. Regular massage may have its advantages, but it also has fantastic benefits especially for women during their pregnancy.
Prenatal massage is a type of massage therapy adapted to a pregnant woman’s needs. It is a gentle, nurturing massage that can be very beneficial for both mother and child. In this type of massage, the therapist uses gentle techniques to help reduce stress, relieve pain, and promote relaxation.
Designed with expectant mothers in mind, prenatal massages can be performed either in a spa setting or in the comfort of one’s home. Some women find that receiving regular massages during pregnancy helps them feel more comfortable and reduces their likelihood of developing complications such as back pain or headaches.
Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of prenatal massage.
1. Relief from Back Pain
Most women commonly complain about back pain during their pregnancy. This is often caused by the added weight and stress that their body is under. Prenatal massages can ease muscle tension and promote relaxation to help relieve this pain.
2. Reduced Stress Levels
Being pregnant is a period of immense change both physically and mentally. Women may also find their tension and anxiety levels rise during pregnancy. Prenatal massage can help reduce these stress levels, leaving the recipient of the treatment feeling more relaxed and capable of dealing with the challenges of this stage of motherhood.
3. Improved Circulation and Reduced Swelling
Pregnancy can often lead to a decrease in blood circulation due to the added pressure on the blood vessels. Additionally, the uterus may put additional pressure on a pregnant woman’s legs, causing swelling in her feet and ankles. Massage can help reduce swelling by stimulating lymph flow and circulation in the affected areas.
4. Improved Sleep
Many pregnant women have trouble getting enough sleep. Hormone rushes in the early stage of their pregnancy can make them drowsy, but they will have difficulty falling asleep due to discomfort from their expanding abdomen, leg cramps, back pain, and many other things in the later stage. A massage helps lessen their pain and improve their relaxation. It also promotes the increase of serotonin levels in the body, allowing for better sleep.
5. Bonding Time with the Baby
Regular massages regulate pregnant women’s hormones and reduce their tendencies to be depressed. A happy, calm mother is better able to build relationships with her child, so never undervalue the impact of a tender touch!
Pregnant women who avail this self-care tend to touch their unborn children more tenderly. As a result, newborns receive all the advantages of the massage and become closer to their mothers.
6. Preparation for Labor and Birth
A prenatal massage can make labor easier for expectant mothers since it keeps their muscles relaxed before the start of labor, in addition to lowering their general stress levels. According to studies, when women receive massages, their labors were shorter, their hospital stays were also shorter, and their chances of developing postpartum depression were lower.
Is Prenatal Massage Recommended for Pregnant Women?
The answer is absolutely yes. Prenatal massage is specially modified for pregnant women to help reduce their stress, anxiety, and pain. In addition, it can promote relaxation and improve their quality of sleep during pregnancy. There are many perks to this treatment, and it is important to choose a therapist who is certified in this special type of massage to fully enjoy its benefits.
It’s important to note, though, that pregnant women should avoid lying on their stomachs during the massage, and they should drink plenty of water before and after the session to help flush out any toxins that could have been discharged during the massage.
Conclusion
Prenatal massage is a wonderful way to promote relaxation, reduce stress levels, and improve circulation during pregnancy. If you are pregnant and considering getting this massage therapy, be sure to find a qualified therapist who is experienced in working with pregnant women.
We are excited to offer prenatal massage services here at Spa Experience Siesta Key. Our massage room is open to everyone who wants to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of prenatal massage. Here is a list of the services we offer.
Contact us today to directly schedule your appointment.
