Prenatal massage is therapeutic bodywork that focuses on the special needs of the mother-to-be as her body goes through the dramatic changes of pregnancy. It enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue. The gentle, noninvasive approach of prenatal massage can ease discomfort associated with pregnancy, help the mother-to-be prepare for labor and give her nurturing emotional support. 

 Benefits for the body and mind:

The benefits of prenatal massage include a wide range of physiological, emotional and psychological benefits. Alleviates stress on weight-bearing joints and musculo-fascial structures. Assists in remedying many of the common discomforts experienced during pregnancy: muscular discomforts, lower-back pain, upper-back pain, headaches, leg cramps, sciatica, stiffness, tension and knots, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, heartburn and acid reflux, fatigue, varicose veins, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, edema of the lower extremities, neck pain, interscapular pain, sacroiliac and hip joint pain and constipation

Increases blood circulation, which provides more oxygen and nutrients to both mother and fetus and stimulates the lymph system, thereby increasing immunity and removal of toxins. Stabilizes hormonal levels and helps relieve depression or anxiety caused by hormonal changes

Soothes and relaxes the nervous system by releasing endorphins into the mother’s body. As a result, the expectant mother feels more relaxed and at ease, and will also sleep more easily and more deeply

Assists in maintaining good posture and adjusting to a changing alignment caused by the baby’s increasing weight. Massage increases muscle tone and flexibility, enhancing the ability to carry this extra weight while also relieving aches and pains, leg cramps and muscle spasms Eases the load on the heart and helps keep blood pressure in check. Enhances the pliability of skin and underlying tissues. Supports the return of blood to the heart and increases blood flow to the uterus and placenta.  

Massage offers the mother-to-be a sedating effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and stress relief.

It also offers a natural, safe, drug-free alternative choice for pain relief, since taking medications are often limited during a pregnancy for the sake of the unborn child

In addition to the physical benefits, prenatal massage provides expecting women with the emotional support and nurturing touch provided by nonsexual human touch and energy.

Positioned for comfort Prenatal massage can be performed by 

having an expectant woman lie on her side, propped up with pillows;

utilizing specially designed maternity cushioning systems, which allow the expectant mother to lie on her stomach, supported by the cushions; or

positioning the mother-to-be in a semi-reclining position propped up by pillows. 

 

 

Pregnancy Massage Pillow- Enjoy  being face down without worry or discomfort for you or the little one(s). *Certain contraindications during pregnancy may require traditional side lying massage.

Continued self-care

At the conclusion of the session, suggest that the mother-to-be practice self-massage and stretching sequences in between regular prenatal appointments(1)*

Is cupping safe while I'm pregnant?

Unless the mother has been receiving ongoing Cupping prior to their pregnancy – wait until the 2nd trimester.

Women who have not received Cupping and begin during breast feeding should express several days before the treatment and should wait a few days post treatment to return to breast feeding.  

Cups are never placed on the belly at any time, and labor-encouraging acupoints are avoided until at least 39 weeks of pregnancy (per March of Dimes guidelines).  Deep, sustained suction is avoided until after birth, especially in the legs.  An in-depth intake is always done to determine if this is an appropriate treatment.

*(1)Author

Ariana Vincent

https://www.massagemag.com/benefits-of-prenatal-massage-3204/

 

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