Pregnancy or prenatal massage is a gentle massage to ease stress, reduce swelling in the arms and legs and alleviate muscle and joint pain in pregnant women. It is designed to help expectant mothers cope with the changes that occur during pregnancy and ease their discomfort at a time when they cannot use medication.
The changes in shape and posture during pregnancy can put a lot of stress on the back, shoulders, neck and abdominal muscles in expectant women. Prenatal massage is designed to alleviate those aches and pains by reducing muscle tension and improving blood and lymphatic flow.
Unlike traditional massage where you can lie face down on your stomach, it is not possible to do so with a growing belly and breasts. Lying face up is also not recommended for pregnant women as it puts pressure on a major vein that runs from their legs to the heart.
Your pregnancy massage therapist will make accommodations with a range of pillows, bolsters and foam cutouts to support your belly so you can safely lie face down or on one side. They may ask you to lie on a massage table or sit in a chair and cover you with towels to keep you warm.
Some therapists combine massage during pregnancy with aromatherapy, using essential oils and scented candles to soothe your senses and mind. A certified pregnancy massage therapist will know to avoid peppermint, oregano, sage, thyme, rosemary, basil and nutmeg aromas because they can induce labour.
Many expectant couples book couples pregnancy massages as a way of strengthening their emotional connection. Quite often the massage therapist will show you some massage techniques you could try yourselves at home.
Massage therapy for pregnancy can provide many health benefits, including:
getting a massage during pregnancy naturally relieves the common aches and pains of pregnancy such as headaches, neck, shoulder, back pain and leg cramps
A prenatal massage is gentler than other massages. No pregnancy massage therapist will apply intense pressure on the skin and underlying soft tissues when massaging an expectant mother. That could increase the risk of miscarriage, blood clots or other complications.
Stimulating specific pressure points, such as those within the ankles and wrists, could also bring on premature labour.
Professional pregnancy massage excludes those risky points, focusing only on gentle movements and minimal pressure.
Many women wonder if getting massages during pregnancy is a safe way to eliminate physical, mental and emotional stressors.
Massages for pregnant women are generally considered safe after the first trimester as long as you have received the approval of your primary doctor and have also let your massage therapist know you are pregnant.
Make sure you choose an experienced massage therapist certified in pregnancy massage. They should know to avoid stimulating certain pressure points on their wrists and ankles which can induce labour.
Recent research recommends using a standard massage table rather than those with a cut-out for your pregnant belly. The latter cannot support your abdomen and could stretch your uterine ligaments. The Cut-out massage table should not be used for extended periods and any discomfort should be communicated to your therapist.
Always consult with your maternity care provider before you book a pregnancy massage, especially if:
The cost of a prenatal massage in Australia predominantly depends on the technique, pregnancy massage therapist’s expertise, session length and location.
The average prices range from $60 for 30 minutes to approximately $100 for 60 minutes. Some treatments can cost around $190 per hour, while some massage spas and parlours charge a minimum of $170 for a 90-minute session.
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