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Benefits of Massage During Pregnacy:
During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes tremendous changes. Some of the by-products of these changes result in a number of uncomfortable conditions. Massage during pregnancy helps relieve many of these complaints through the positive physiological effects of soft tissue manipulation. The overall goals for maternity massage are to help minimize stress, promote relaxation, and prepare the muscles for child birth. In addition, there are specific techniques and movements which are designed to help relieve particular conditions, including the following:
* Low back pain
* Swelling of the hands and feet
* Headaches
* Calf cramps
* Insomnia
* Sciatic Pain
* Sinus Congestion
How Maternity Massage Helps
Massage involves manipulation of the soft tissues, and is the physical movement, stroking, and streching of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissue. One major physiological effect of this manipulation is an increase of blood circulation to the muscles being massaged. This results in more oxygen and nutrient availability to these tissues, which blood is designed to transport. In addition, enhanced blood flow will remove metabolic waste products that have built up in the muscles. Some other major physiological effects of soft tissue manipulation include improving muscle pliability and joint flexibility, decrease muscle tension, and calming nervous irritability.
Precautions
In most instances, maternity massage can be received safely. At times, there are reasons not to receive massage or precautions that your massage therapists should take. It is therefore recommended that you consult with your primary health care provider prior to receiving a maternity massage. The following are circumstances in which many authorities advise that no maternity massage should be performed.
* Heavy vaginal discharge (watery or bloody)
* Pre-eclampsia
* Diabetic
* High blood pressure
* Contagious illness
* Morning sickness
* Fever
* Abdominal pain
* Vomiting / Diarrhea
* Any malignant condition
* Unusual pain
Considerations
Position: May be supine, prone, or side-lying
Draping: How much or how little clothing to wear during a maternity massage is up to you. What's most important is that you feel comfortable and secure.
Feedback: While receiving a massage, be sure to let the massage therapist know if you're uncomfortable, thirsty, need a bathroom break, or have other concerns.
Pressure: Pain which may be felt by you during a maternity massage can also be felt by the growing baby. Advise the massage therapist if less pressure is needed.
Post-partum & Infant Massage
Do not overlook the value of massage for recovery from the birthing event, or for learning how to massage your baby. Post-partum massage helps restore your muscles to a healthier, more normal status. In addition, many maternity massage therapists also teach infant massage for parents. This is easy to learn, fun, and good for the both of you!
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