Pregnancy massages offer many benefits for the expecting and post-natal woman
Specialised massages that cater for the considerations of the pregnant body and recovering from childbirth
Pregnancy massages are an excellent way to ease the body of its discomfort and many of the painful side effects of pregnancy, while also promoting several beneficial responses within the body.
The differences between a regular massage and a pregnancy massage will primarily lie with the masseur needing to have an understanding of the anatomical considerations of a pregnant woman and the foetus. What this means is that there are a number of areas that should be left untouched during a massage, or rather, the physical positioning of the client needs to be thoroughly watched and considered. Areas that are inflamed, showing sign of rash and distended varicose veins should not be massaged.
Additionally, it is the physical set up of a pregnancy massage that will be the biggest noticeable difference. While a regular massage will involve a simple padded table, often with an area cut out for the face, a pregnancy massage should be set up with the woman in a semi-reclining position. This position puts no pressure on the foetus while reliving all pressure from the woman’s back. Throughout the massage they will be turned from side to side with pillows used at all times to support the abdomen and back. It is important to note that a pregnancy massage should never be carried out with the woman facing down on a table with an area cut out of the table for the abdomen, similar to the facial area. This will only put pressure on the lower back.
There is also little or no use of any essential oils so as not to introduce any concentrated oils or chemicals into the system.
While pregnancy massage lends itself to only being performed before the birth, postpartum massage is a highly popular way to assist the body to recover from the trauma of giving birth. During such a massage focus will often be given to the strained muscles and back area to help relieve any tension. Additionally this form of massage will often focus on the abdomen to encourage speedier shrinking of the uterus and relieve subcutaneous scar tissue. It should be noted that written permission should be gained from a doctor or midwife before commencing any such therapy.
Massages are always a beneficial process as they help relieve built up stress and tension held within the body while promoting better circulation and blood flow. However there are a number of health conditions that can arise when a woman is pregnant that a massage may negatively impact on. These include women any clotting disorders, diabetes, pain in the abdomen, fever, morning sickness, pre-eclampsia, risk of blood clotting or preterm labor. Due to the risks to those with these symptoms it is highly recommended that a doctor approve the massage.
Benefits of Pregnancy Massage include:
- Ease pressure on weight-bearing joints
- Encourage relaxation and reduce stress
- Relief from any muscle cramps and spasms
- Improve circulation to ease joint swelling
- Enhances skin elasticity to help reduce stretch marks
Masseurs need to be qualified to give pregnancy massages or postpartum massage due to the abovementioned considerations that need to be taken to ensure the optimal health of mother and baby. This means that a pregnant woman shouldn’t enlist the services of any unqualified masseurs when it comes to an actual pregnancy massage.
Overall the benefits of both pregnancy and postpartum massages will greatly improve the negative side effects that can arise from childbirth for the mother.
