What is Prenatal Massage?

Have you ever heard of Prenatal Massage and what its all about? How does it go? It’s basically a type of massage that’s suited for pregnant women. That’s for sure. But why would pregnant women want to have it though? What are the benefits? How is it different compared to the regular massages we get? Is it safe? If you’re interested to find out more, read on.

What is Prenatal Massage?

Prenatal massage shares many common factors compared to regular massage. It aims to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation, and just make you feel good. However, it’s also tailored specifically to the needs of pregnant women and their changing bodies, and therapists who are trained in prenatal massage adjust their techniques accordingly.

Current Feedback

In the past, getting a massage during pregnancy has often received ambivalent responses from the health community. Questions regarding its safety has always been a topic of debate. However, recent studies have shown that prenatal massage can actually be instrumental in women’s prenatal care. We do advise that you get a go signal from your physician first before trying it out.

What are the Benefits?

Studies show that hormone levels associated with relaxation and stress are significantly altered when pregnant women undergo massage therapy. Levels of stress hormones decrease while “happy hormones” tend to increase. Prenatal massage then, as an effect, has been shown to:

• Reduce anxiety
• Decrease symptoms of depression
• Relieve muscle aches and joint pains
• Improve labor outcomes and
• Improve newborn health.
• Reduce collection of fluids in swollen joints.

Is It Good For All Pregnant Women?

In general, those expectant mothers who are classified as low risk pregnancies can undergo prenatal massage. But how do you know which category you belong to? You should always talk to your prenatal care provider first and foremost. He or she will then tell you things to avoid and things that you can do. Hopefully, prenatal massage will be one of those things that you will be allowed to do and enjoy.