Many women today are postponing childbirth until they have accomplished other life goals. This results in a much anticipated, often planned experience that can be more easily enjoyed to it fullest potential. Many women today are looking for alternative approaches to support traditional health care. The centuries-old practice of Massage Therapy plays a large and wonderful role in enhancing the experience for both you and your unborn baby.

The safety of prenatal massage therapy in the first trimester is a concern for some women. For those women who aren’t presenting contraindications, therapeutic massage treatments can be quite beneficial throughout all trimesters. During the first twelve weeks, your body and mind are undergoing many changes to accommodate your new pregnancy. Massage therapy is very helpful in facilitating this adjustment, with the benefits of reducing anxiety, stress, and the associated physical discomforts that can accompany the changes occurring. 

You may have heard from your doctor the benefits of attaining good health prior to conception. Addressing any pre-existing health concerns and adopting a balanced diet and exercise plan prior to conception are wonderful ways to ensure a comfortable pregnancy. Massage therapy is a valuable consideration prior to conception to help you achieve and maintain your goals through your treatments and homecare guidance. If you are already receiving treatments, inform your massage therapist of your intentions to conceive. He or she will want to make appropriate changes to your treatment plan to facilitate your new plans.  

Benefits of Pregnancy massage:

• Relaxation with reduced stress, anxiety and depression
• Relief from muscle cramps, spasms and myofascial pain
• Increased blood and lymphatic circulation
• Reduced swelling
• Strengthened immune system
• Stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain killer.
• Reduced stress on weight-bearing joints
• Improve neonatal health and development
• Eases labor pain and stress in all three stages (latent, active, and transition)
• Enhances the pliability of skin and underlying tissue
• Provides emotional and physical support for the new mother
• Reduced fatigue by eliminating waste products through the lymphatic & circulatory system
• Increased circulation
• Relief from headaches, stiff neck, backaches, sciatica, edema, and sore feet.
• Stabilization of hormone levels
• Increased flexibility of muscles
• Improved sleep
• Speedier healing during postpartum recovery
• Speedier recovery after a cesarean birth

If you are experiencing any of the following, please contact your doctor prior to receiving Massage Therapy:

• Heavy discharge
  
• Diabetes
• Contagious illness
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Unusual pain
• Pre-eclampsia
• High blood pressure
• Morning sickness
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea

Massage therapy can offer much relieve and benefits in many high risk pregnancies; however it is imperative that you choose a massage therapist who has specialized training as there are special considerations to be made and certain changes must be implemented during treatment to ensure a safe and effective result.

You may think massage therapy isn’t an option for you because you are unable to travel. Whether you are restricted to your own home, or are spending time in the hospital, Maternity Wellness is happy to offer our on site treatment option. This service is restricted to those who are unable to come to us.