Some of these changes can be stressful, and sometimes even painful for the expectant mother. Massage has been utilized for thousands of years to relieve stress, relax muscles, and improve general healthβand that remains true during pregnancy. While the essential benefits of massage therapy remain the same, Prenatal Massage requires different techniques to ensure the safety of mother and baby. With a few precautions and a clear line of communication between the mother and Massage Therapist, there is little to no danger to the mother or baby.
It is incredibly important for the prospective guest to ask the Massage Therapist if they have specific training in Prenatal Massage as well as consulting with their doctor before receiving a Prenatal Massage. Numerous studies show that women who received massage therapy reported decreased depression, anxiety, and leg and back pain. Cortisol levels decreased and, in turn, excessive fetal activity decreased, and the rate of prematurity was lower in the massage group.
In a study of labor pain, women who received massage therapy experienced significantly less pain, and their labors were on average 3 hours shorter with less need for medication.
During a Prenatal Massage session at a LaVida Massage Center, the expectant guest will lie on their side instead of lying on the stomach like during many traditional forms of massage. Your Massage Therapist will offer extra pillows or sheets to make you more comfortable during your session. As always, if you need anything, do not hesitate to ask! The type of massage the expectant mother receives depends on where they are in the term of their pregnancy.
The general rule of thumb is the further along with the pregnancy, the less rigorous and deep the massage becomes. Most techniques concentrate primarily on a technique referred to as Effleurage. For areas such as the shoulders and legs, it is likely the Massage Therapist will use the deep Effleurage method, employing slightly more pressure to stretch and broaden the muscle tissue.
