subject: Defeat Stress But Also Combat Pain Using A Relaxing Prenatal Massage [print this page] Pregnant women everywhere are enjoying the benefits of a prenatal massage to provide relief from the major changes that take place in their bodies as a result of the extra weight they have to carry. A prenatal massage can relieve symptoms associated with the added pressure being placed on your shoulders, neck, back and abdominal muscles.
Modern research has indicated that prenatal massage therapy can be very beneficial during pregnancy and should be considered a vital part of a prenatal health program. While most massage training institutions teach massage therapy for pregnant women, take the time to find a massage therapist who is certified in prenatal massage.
This is where a great massage therapist - trained in the techniques of prenatal massage - comes into the picture. Below are some of the advantages that pregnant women enjoy with prenatal massage therapy.
Provides a healthy alternative to reducing stress and promoting general well-being;
Relieves discomfort associated with backaches, stiff neck, leg cramps, headaches, joint pain and edema (swelling of the joints);
Reduces nervous tension, helping promote a better night's sleep;
Increases immunity and removal of excess toxins;
Stabilizes hormonal levels and balances the glandular system which results in fewer complications during birth and fewer instances of newborn complications, such as low birth weight;
Soothes inflamed nerves by reducing muscle tension and sciatic nerve pain;
Relieves the effects of depression and anxiety brought on by pregnancy.
As mentioned above, the person administering a prenatal massage must be trained to properly hone in on the area affected by pregnancy - at the right time - and combat the problem with the correct amount of pressure. This is not something that a regular massage therapist - without proper training - can do.
Here are a few of the symptoms a prenatal massage can relieve.
In trimester #1, a prenatal massage will:
Relieve headaches;
Help alleviate morning sickness;
Reduce fatigue.
Prenatal massage therapy in the second trimester helps:
Provide relief from backaches;
Sooth leg cramps.
Third Trimester:
Decrease swelling;
Relive pain from varicosities;
Provide a sounder night's sleep;
Reinforce the muscles in the pelvic area in preparation for the birthing process.
During a prenatal massage, your therapist will ask that you lie on your side the later ask that you move into a reclining position to target the front of your body. During trimester #1, it's fine to lie on your back during your prenatal massage with one hip slightly elevated to reduce the strain placed on your pelvic and lower back areas. Most therapists will provide a specially-designed support pillow or a hollowed-out cushion (for your growing abdominal area) during the massage to assist with proper positioning.
If you have any concerns regarding the safety aspect of a prenatal massage for you or your baby, it's important that you have a conversation with your obstetrician before beginning any treatment. Women with normal (low-risk) pregnancies tout the benefits of the prenatal massage and the relief it provides; women with higher-risk pregnancies should definitely consult their doctor before beginning a prenatal massage program. If you experience any discomfort at any time during your prenatal massage, tell your massage therapist immediately.
by: Sharon Hubbard
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