Did you know massage can help regulate hormones like oxytocin and serotonin? Research shows that massage can reduce stress hormones in your body and relax and loosen your muscles.
This is one of the reasons why it is beneficial to receive a massage when pregnant. It can also be helpful postpartum. There are many benefits to receiving a prenatal massage.
What is a prenatal massage and what to expect:
Prenatal massages are adapted for the anatomical changes you go through during pregnancy. With this being said, accommodations are made to make you (and baby) more comfortable. In your traditional massage, you would spend most of your time face up or face down. With a prenatal massage, you will be in a side lying position with the support of as many pillows as you'd like. We keep our time limited on your back because being in that position puts pressure on a major blood vessel that can disrupt blood flow to your baby and leave you feeling nauseous.
Benefits include:
Not only does an overall prenatal massage help you relax and increase blood flow, it can also be beneficial for anyone who experiences joint pain, sciatic pain, leg cramping, carpal tunnel, insomnia, headaches, etc.
Things to consider:
If you are high risk, have recently experienced bleeding, pre-term contractions, previous pre-term labor, pre-eclampsia, previous miscarriage's, you should speak with a health care provider prior to receiving a massage, and it would be better to start after the 1st trimester.
Kristen is one of our massage therapists who loves to preform prenatal massages. She can say she knows the aches and pains that come along with pregnancy, and she can help you! Call the office or book online today to book your prenatal massage.