Pregnancy Massage

Pre-natal massage can relieve aches and pains as your amazing body grows and changes shape. And during the second and third trimester of your pregnancy it can ease the stress caused by the extra weight of carrying a baby.

Let’s look at the health benefits of massage during pregnancy and how to find a qualified therapist.

Massage increases circulation which can reduce swelling and water retention and ease cramps and spasms. It is also known to increase energy levels and improve your general mental state as you will be calm and relaxed during and after a good massage.

Massage can also reduce your stress levels, ease depression, cure headaches and enhance your quality of sleep. These are just some of the endless benefits of massage. Pregnancy is a time when you need to take care of yourself and the tiny bundle of joy that is on the way. It is a time to put yourself first and do something for yourself that feels great and is good for your health at the same time.

It is beneficial to have massages right up until the baby is ready to be welcomed to this wonderful world (and after if you are lucky enough to find the time). Many women claim regular treatments make labor easier because it prepares the muscles for the hard work of giving birth – reason enough to make massage a regular part of your pre-natal care.

Finding a qualified therapist is vital so let’s look at how to find a masseuse who is both knowledgeable and experienced and how to spot one who doesn’t have a clue.

Remember that just because a place is expensive it doesn’t mean it is the best or that the staff know everything about all of the different kinds of massage. And just because pre-natal or postpartum massage is offered as a service doesn’t mean you are guaranteed a qualified massage therapist.

First ask to speak to the therapist who will do your massage and take a list of questions.

Questions to ask include:
What qualifications do you hold specifically for pregnancy massage?
What training did you do?
How long have you been doing pregnancy massage?
How often do you do pregnancy massage?

If you are happy, next ask to view the room and massage table that will be used. You can’t lie on your stomach and shouldn’t lie on your back for too long, especially after 5 months so a good therapist will massage you while you are lying on your side. While some spas and clinics have a hole in the table for the stomach it is not ideal as it can strain your stomach muscles and can cause discomfort or even injury. When you are in your final months your therapist may suggest you are massaged in a seated position.

While it is obvious that your stomach area should be massaged carefully and lightly as to not harm the baby, there are other areas of your body to be aware of. The main one is the inside of your foot, just above your anklebone. There is a pressure point there that can cause miscarriage or early labor if over-stimulated.

If you are especially concerned ask the therapist not to touch your feet. On the flip side if you find yourself overdue and impatiently waiting for labor to kick in a foot massage can be a natural method to get things going. Be sure to consult your doctor first. Pre-natal massage comes with a long list of health benefits, both physical and mental. And who doesn’t enjoy a good massage? So find a great therapist and indulge yourself and your baby to a relaxing, sensual treat that you surely deserve.