There are a few notable limitations that can be placed on expecting mothers during pregnancy, but these aren't always as extensive as you might think. For instance, many mothers-to-be ask a common question: Can I get a massage while pregnant? Not only is the answer yes, but the world of prenatal massage can be enormously beneficial to pregnant women.
At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're happy to offer a wide range of massage therapy services from trained massage therapists to patients around Lehi, Orem, Highland, Saratoga Springs and nearby areas, including prenatal massage for pregnant women. How does prenatal massage work, and what are some of its chief benefits? Here are some basics.
For those just learning about it, prenatal massage is a type of massage that is specifically designed and tailored for pregnant women. This means that the techniques used are safe and appropriate for expecting mothers, taking into account changes in the body during pregnancy and any potential risks or complications.
During prenatal massage, the patient will lay on her side, supported by pillows for optimal comfort and safety. The massage therapist will use a combination of techniques to address common issues during pregnancy, such as back pain, swelling, cramps, and muscle tension.
There are numerous benefits of prenatal massage, which we'll get into in our subsequent sections.
As any pregnant woman can tell you, pain is a common side effect of pregnancy. This can manifest in various ways, from morning sickness and headaches to back pain and swollen feet.
Prenatal massage can help alleviate these pains by promoting relaxation, improving circulation and reducing overall tension in the body. This can also lead to better sleep quality, which is crucial for expecting mothers.
Down related lines, pregnancy can also cause swelling, particularly in the hands and feet. This can be uncomfortable and even painful, but massage therapy can help by stimulating circulation and lymphatic drainage, helping to reduce swelling and promote optimal fluid balance in the body.
Specifically, massage techniques such as rhythmic compression and gentle stroking can be highly effective in reducing both swelling and discomfort.
Hormones are another factor that can contribute to the discomforts of pregnancy. Many women experience significant hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, which can lead to mood swings, irritability, and even depression.
Prenatal massage can help restore balance to these hormones by promoting relaxation and reducing stress. It can also increase the production of "feel-good" hormones like serotonin and dopamine, which can improve overall well-being for both mother and baby. This often leads to fewer complications during pregnancy and even easier labor.
Speaking of labor, prenatal massage can also have a positive impact on the actual birthing process. Studies have shown that women who receive regular prenatal massages may experience shorter labors with fewer complications. This is due to the relaxation and pain relief effects of massage therapy, which can help expecting mothers stay calm and focused during labor.
In addition, prenatal massage can also help the body prepare for childbirth by increasing flexibility and mobility in the hips and pelvis. This can make it easier for the baby to move through the birth canal, potentially reducing the need for medical interventions like forceps or cesarean sections.
Because pregnancy can put added strain on the body's circulatory system, it's important to take measures to ensure good circulation. Prenatal massage can help by improving blood and lymphatic flow throughout the body.
This not only helps reduce swelling and fluid retention but also provides essential nutrients and oxygen to both mother and baby. It also helps remove waste products from the body, promoting overall health and wellness.
Many pregnant women experience muscle tension or headaches, which can be caused by stress, hormonal changes, or simply the increased weight and pressure on the body. Prenatal massage can target these specific areas of discomfort and help release tension and tightness in muscles.
By incorporating techniques like Swedish massage, shiatsu, and reflexology, prenatal massage can provide relief to these common pregnancy symptoms and leave expecting mothers feeling more comfortable and relaxed.
So if you're wondering whether you can get a massage while pregnant, don't hesitate to give prenatal massage a try. The benefits are numerous and can greatly improve your overall well-being during this special time.
At Body Balance Massage and Float, our trained massage therapists are experienced in providing prenatal massage to expecting mothers. Contact us today to schedule a session and experience the many benefits of prenatal massage for yourself, whether you're in Lehi, Orem, Highland, Saratoga Springs or any nearby area.