In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the primary benefits of massage therapy for expecting mothers. Known as prenatal massage, this method has been used in some form for centuries to help pregnant women keep their stress levels low, their overall health high and their days free of pain or discomfort.
At Body Balance Massage and Float, we’re proud to offer prenatal massage services to a variety of clients during any trimester of their pregnancy, as well as float therapy – the two can often be combined for ideal results for expecting mothers. In today’s part two of our series, we’ll go over the specific benefits of prenatal massage within each trimester of pregnancy, plus once the birth is completed as well.
The first trimester is the newest of the prenatal massage sectors – it was originally thought to be unsafe, but recent research has shown the opposite. In fact, a healthy first trimester, boosted by massage therapy and other solutions, will set the table for a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Prenatal massage during this stage is mostly targeted at any existing issues you have in your muscles, especially in important areas like the back, pelvis, shoulders and neck – these kinds of issues tend to worsen as pregnancy goes on. We will use basic techniques to relieve any issues and prepare your body for the more difficult parts of the pregnancy.
During the second trimester, while physical pain isn’t as common, this is the stage where the body begins growing quickly. This often throws off the center of gravity for new mothers, which can lead to back pain and related concerns due to muscle tension.
Prenatal massage is perfect for relieving this pain if it takes place. In addition, massage will focus on supporting your enlarging uterus by keeping your muscles and ligaments healthy – this will also show benefits during labor.
Much of prenatal massage during the third trimester will be centered around preparing you for labor and delivery. You may be experiencing swelling or weight gain at this point, or anxiety about delivery date – massage will address each of these concerns through de-stressing methods, plus those meant to limit swelling or inflammation. We’ll present you with special pillows plus a larger table during this trimester, if needed for your comfort.
Finally, massage once your baby is born – called postpartum or postnatal massage – is also highly beneficial. It’s a great way to support several bodily areas, from bladder function to the pelvic floor and several others that are typically strained significantly during pregnancy.
For more on how prenatal and postnatal massage are so beneficial to new mothers, or to learn about any of our massage therapy or float therapy services, speak to the staff at Body Balance Massage and Float today.