While pregnancy is a joyous occasion full of anticipation for a new arrival, it can also be accompanied by many aches and pains. Most doctors agree that prenatal massage can provide benefits for both the mother and the baby. Massage during pregnancy can not only provide relaxation, it can also provide other medical benefits including improved outcomes during childbirth for both the mother and the baby if massages are received on a regular basis during pregnancy.
Pain Relief
Regular massage therapy during pregnancy can relieve many of the aches and pains that are associated with the pregnancy. These can include back pain, headaches, leg cramps, and abdominal pain. A common complaint among pregnant women is sciatic nerve pain. As the uterus continues to expand throughout the pregnancy, increased pressure is placed on the sciatic nerve. This pressure can cause pain that begins in the buttocks and can radiate down the leg. A trained therapist can work on this area to reduce the pain associated with the sciatic nerve. Prenatal massage can also help to increase and improve circulation in the body. This increased circulation can aid in the reduction of leg cramps that many pregnant women experience primarily at night as well as hemorrhoids.
Relaxation
Massage therapy can also provide immediate relaxation for a stressed out and anxious mom-to-be. Even pregnant women who have a relatively easy pregnancy can benefit from the stress reduction and relaxing properties of a prenatal massage. In addition to providing relaxation during the pregnancy, more and more women are also using the services of a massage therapist during labor. Because human touch naturally releases endorphins, or feel good hormones, into the system, this can be beneficial during the labor and delivery process.
Reduced Swelling
During pregnancy, the blood volume in the body increases dramatically to support both the mother and the fetus. In addition, the body tends to retain more fluids, particularly towards the end of the pregnancy. Women can experience swelling of the extremities, especially of the feet and lower legs. The benefit of increased circulation can help to reduce some of the swelling that is associated with pregnancy.
Considerations
When deciding on a prenatal massage, it is important to seek out a massage therapist who is licensed in prenatal massage. Those who are certified have undergone specific training as how to best massage a pregnant woman to relieve common ailments during the pregnancy. In addition, they are trained to avoid certain pressure points in the ankles and wrists which can cause contractions and preterm labor.
It is wise to wait until after the first trimester to begin receiving prenatal massages. Due to the increased risk of miscarriage, many massage therapists will not schedule a massage until the second trimester. The doctor should be consulted before massage therapy begins as well. While prenatal massage is perfectly safe for most women, if the pregnancy is high risk or other complications are present, the doctor may recommend that prenatal massage be avoided.
If the doctor approves, call the masseuse and enjoy the hour of relaxation that prenatal massage brings with it. The peaceful atmosphere, along with numerous health benefits, is sure to bring a happier disposition to the pregnancy.
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