How can prenatal massage help you during pregnancy?
What is Prenatal Massage?
Prenatal massage is the catch-all term to describe hands-on massage during pregnancy. The prenatal massage might usually last for an hour. Some massage therapists use the pregnancy massage table. The table is designed to accommodate the woman’s pregnant belly. While others use specially designed pillows known as bolsters to position women comfortably on their sides. It will help, especially during the initial days of the pregnancy. Lying on your side is mostly the most comfortable position during pregnancy.
Expecting mothers can opt for prenatal massage therapy in Calgary which is useful for the anatomical changes that a woman goes through during the pregnancy. During the traditional massage, a woman will have to spend half the time lying face-down on her stomach, which is not possible while carrying a baby in the stomach. And half the time facing up, a position that will put pressure on the major blood vessels can hamper the blood flow to your baby and leave you feeling nauseous.
But during the pregnancy, as your shape and posture change, the trained massage therapist will make accommodations through suitable ways.
Here are the benefits of getting prenatal massage therapy.
- It can regulate hormones.
Studies from the last ten years have shown that hormone levels linked with stress and relaxation are considerably changed while undergoing massage therapy in prenatal care. It will lead to mood regulation and improved cardiovascular health for women. In women who received bi-weekly massages for only five weeks, hormones like cortisol and norepinephrine were decreased, and serotonin and dopamine levels were boosted.
Such dramatic changes in the hormone levels can lead to fewer complications during birth and fewer instances of newborn complications. Evidence also shows that it is highly beneficial for both mother and a baby.
- It can reduce swelling.
Swelling or Edema of the joints during the pregnancy is frequently caused by the minimum circulation and enhanced pressure on the primary blood vessels by the heavy uterus. Prenatal massage will help you stimulate soft tissues to minimize the collection of fluids in the swollen joints. It can improve the removal of tissue waste pushed by the lymph system of the body.
- It alleviates nerve pain.
Many women experience sciatic nerve pain in late pregnancy as the uterus rests on the pelvic floor and lower back muscles. The pressure of the uterus runs out tension to the muscles of the upper and lower leg. It can cause them to swell and put pressure on the nearby nerves.
Massage therapy can address the inflamed nerves by aiding in releasing the tension on the nearby muscles. Many pregnant women have experienced a considerable reduction in their sciatic nerve pain during the pregnancy after receiving prenatal massage therapy.
- Improves sleep.
Getting good quality sleep during the night becomes harder as your pregnancy progresses. Prenatal massage will relax your nervous system and release the dopamine and serotonin that can make you feel good and happy. This will leave you more refreshed and let you sleep better at night.
- Prepares your body for labour and birth.
Prenatal massage can help you in delivering an easy and pain-free delivery. It can reduce your overall stress while keeping your muscles relaxed and toned before the labour. As per the studies, the women have experienced shorter hospital stays and labour and post-natal depression after receiving the prenatal massage.
Other benefits that prenatal massage delivers;
- Back pain reduction.
- Reduced Edema.
- Improvement in oxygenation of soft tissue and muscles.
- Improved circulation.
- Joint pain reduction.
- Lowered anxiety.
When should you avoid prenatal massage during the pregnancy?
You should visit a physiotherapy clinic in Calgary and schedule an appointment with the massage therapist. If you have a high-risk or complicated pregnancy, be cautious. Especially if you have;
- Risk of pre-term labour.
- Problems with your placenta.
- High blood pressure or preeclampsia.
- Clotting disorder or blood clots.
A common prenatal massage therapist might include the following technique;
- Deep tissue massage, where massage therapists will stroke and press deep into your muscles.
- Shiatsu, here the massage therapist will pressure and tap on the acupressure points to stimulate your body’s natural energy.
- Swedish massage, where massage therapists will stroke long muscles and give more attention to joint mobility.
You should also ensure that your massage therapist is certified or licensed or not by the professional organization before scheduling the appointment. Book your appointment online for the prenatal massage and make sure you take enough fluids as massage can be dehydrating.
Also Read: What is Physiotherapy? How Can it Help You Lead a Healthy and Successful Life?