Pregnancy massage or prenatal massage is a therapeutic bodywork
that focuses on the physiological, structural and emotional well being
of mother and baby.
It may include Swedish, deep tissue or
neuromuscular, and after the first trimester, pregnancy massage can be
safely enjoyed by most pregnant women.
The human touch conveys
love and comfort. Throughout pregnancy and during labour, pregnancy
massage can be especially beneficial to alleviate aches and pains reduce
stress and help you to relax.
How Pregnancy Massage Differs From Regular Massage
The
major difference between pregnancy massage and regular massage is that
the person receiving the massage is pregnant. An obvious point to state
perhaps, but nevertheless very important.
When massage a pregnant
woman it is very important that the practitioner have knowledge of
pregnancy and the anatomy, as positioning during a massage is a critical
factor to the safety of both mother and baby.
The second difference is that certain parts of the body should not be massaged.
Pregnancy Massage - What are The Benefits?
The
experience of pregnancy can have a profound physiological and emotional
effect on a woman. Coming to terms with the changes in her body, and
the impending lifestyle changes can be quite stressful.
Pregnancy
massage has been used for many years in many cultures to provide a
nurturing touch and emotional support to expectant mothers, other
benefits include:
o increased relaxation
o decreased insomnia
o lessened sciatic pain
o reduced swelling in hands and feet
o headache and sinus congestion relief
o neck and back pain relief
o stress relief on weight-bearing joints
o assistance in maintaining proper posture
o relief from muscle cramps, spasms, and myofascial pain, especially in the lower back, neck, hips, and legs.
o increase in blood and lymph circulation, which can reduce swelling
o preparing the muscles used during childbirth
Pregnancy Massage - Is It Safe?
Pregnancy
massage is not recommended during the first trimester because of the
hormonal changes occurring in the body during this period.
During
the second and third trimester, and even during labour, massage is
considered safe and even beneficial. However, while massage is
considered safe during these periods, there are certain parts of the
body that should not be massaged.
o The area between the ankle
bone and the heel is considered by reflexologists to relate to the
vagina and uterus. Direct pressure should not be applied here as it is
thought this could induce early labour.
o Only superficial
pressure should be applied to the inner leg and massage of the leg
should be avoided completely if on bed rest for any complications as
this can put you at a higher risk for blood clots forming in the legs.
o A flat gentle hand should be touched only superficially to the abdomen.
o Massage should be avoided if you have vaginal bleeding, diarrhoea or abdominal pain.
It
is not recommended that pregnant women lie on the abdomen as this can
place unnecessary strain on the lower back. Some therapists may provide
a couch or table with a hole cut out for the abdomen but this is still
ill advised.
It is advisable that you consult your health care
provider before receiving massage during pregnancy and ensure you choose
a suitably qualified practitioner with whom you can discuss your health
conditions beforehand, in order for treatment to be modified to meet
your individual needs.
Pregnancy Massage - Booking a Treatment
When
booking a pregnancy massage ensure that the practitioner has been
trained specifically in pregnancy massage and doesn't just cite this on
their information leaflet.
Once you have found a suitable
therapist you can begin to enjoy the benefits of pregnancy massage for
the duration of your pregnancy and beyond. The benefits of massage at
any time are great - so go on, what are you waiting for?
FOR MORE FREE INFO On all forms of massage and the benefits
including more on pregnancy massage visit our website at
www.privatelyyours.co.uk [http://www.privatelyyours.co.uk]
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