A pregnancy massage is a specially adapted gentle and soothing massage tailored specifically for the mother-to-be. The term ‘pregnancy massage’ applies to any hands-on massage treatment for a woman during her pregnancy, so it can therefore vary enormously in terms of what it consists of. However, for many women, pregnancy massage benefits include easing aches and pains, as well as facilitating relaxation and preparation for labour.
Is massage during pregnancy safe?
Yes and in fact it has many benefits! As a disclaimer, testing and research on pregnant women is generally avoided on ethical grounds and you’ll find that most of the evidence for pregnancy massage is anecdotal. However, as long as a practitioner knows their stuff and listens to you and any concerns – then you have no reason to worry! If you have a high risk pregnancy then it is recommended that you ask your Dr or midwife for advice on whether a pregnancy massage is for you.
A pregnancy massage can be a beautiful bonding moment for you and your little one, as well as time to yourself before they come. View our pregnancy massage treatment here.
What are the pregnancy massage benefits?
Pregnancy massage benefits are wide-ranging…
- Mind and body relaxation. If you’re a fan of massage before pregnancy, we are sure you’ll fall in love with receiving pregnancy massages for the same deep relaxation that you will receive. We place our clients on their sides so that there is no pressure on their bellies.
- Pregnancy aches and pains. With increased weight, and your changing posture, pregnancy can trigger new aches and pains which range from nasty niggles to real discomfort. In pregnancy, you’re limited in terms of what pain medication you can take, and also how you can alleviate the pain. Pregnancy massage is one way to gently move the sore areas, and increase your range of movement carefully, helping to soothe the pain away.
- Reduction in anxiety. Whilst pregnancy is a wonderful time for many women, it can provoke anxiety in others. It’s a new chapter and your body is undergoing a huge change. Massage can be a way to connect with your body, learn to feel safe with the changes, and thus reduce the anxiety. Additionally, having the benefit of a skilled pregnancy massage therapist can help you understand that the changes to your body are normal and to be expected.
- Improved sleep. Sleep may be allusive in pregnancy. Right when you need a good night’s sleep for preparation for labour and a newborn, you may be tossing and turning all night. Massage can bring numerous sleep benefits.
- Bonding with baby. Many pregnant women find that their pregnancy can feel like a rollercoaster. Juggling work, and perhaps other family commitments, can end up feeling like the pregnancy is simply happening and it’s difficult to connect it to the real baby you’re soon to meet. Pregnancy massage is a time to slow down and focus on yourself and that growing bundle of joy inside, helping you to bond before the birth.
- First stage of labour. If you’re having a prolonged first stage, particularly likely with first babies, a pregnancy massage can help you to feel calmer, in control, and better able to cope with contractions.
- Sciatic and pelvic pain. The hormones of pregnancy, combined with the increasing weight of the baby in the pelvic space, can in some women, cause sciatic pain, or pelvic pain. This can be particularly distressing and difficult to manage. Your therapist can work carefully to ease the pains around your pelvic joints and into your buttocks and legs.
- Non-pregnancy problems. If you suffer with other conditions during pregnancy, you may be very limited in terms of what you can do to alleviate symptoms e.g. hay fever, headaches or sinus pain. Massage can bring relief when nothing else can.
- Reduce ankle and feet swelling. It’s not uncommon for pregnant women to suffer with sore and swollen feet. The extra pressure from your uterus, plus increased blood, causes the swelling. Gentle upward massage strokes can alleviate this swelling.
Pregnancy massage should always focus on your comfort and the baby’s safety and wellbeing, as well as maximising the pregnancy massage benefits. For this you need a trained professional massage therapist who listens to your needs. Book your pregnancy massage now with MJs for a tailored, peaceful and comfortable experience.
