How Pregnancy Massage Differs From Regular Massage
The major difference between pregnancy massage and regular
massage is that the person receiving the massage is pregnant. An obvious point
to state perhaps, but nevertheless very important.
When massage a pregnant woman it is very important that the
practitioner have knowledge of pregnancy and the anatomy, as positioning during
a massage is a critical factor to the safety of both mother and baby.
The second difference is that certain parts of the body should
not be massaged.
Pregnancy Massage What are The Benefits?
The experience of pregnancy can have a profound physiological
and emotional effect on a woman. Coming to terms with the changes in her body,
and the impending lifestyle changes can be quite stressful.
Pregnancy massage has been used for many years in many cultures
to provide a nurturing touch and emotional support to expectant mothers, other
benefits include:
increased relaxation
decreased insomnia
lessened sciatic pain
reduced swelling in hands and feet
headache and sinus congestion relief
neck and back pain relief
stress relief on weight-bearing joints
assistance in maintaining proper posture
relief from muscle cramps, spasms, and myofascial pain,
especially in the lower back, neck, hips, and legs.
increase in blood and lymph circulation, which can reduce
swelling
preparing the muscles used during childbirth
Pregnancy Massage Is It Safe?
Pregnancy massage is not recommended during the first trimester
because of the hormonal changes occurring in the body during this period.
During the second and third trimester, and even during labour,
massage is considered safe and even beneficial. However, while massage is
considered safe during these periods, there are certain parts of the body that
should not be massaged.
The area between the ankle bone and the heel is considered by
reflexologists to relate to the vagina and uterus. Direct pressure should not be
applied here as it is thought this could induce early labour.
Only superficial pressure should be applied to the inner leg
and massage of the leg should be avoided completely if on bed rest for any
complications as this can put you at a higher risk for blood clots forming in
the legs.
A flat gentle hand should be touched only superficially to the
abdomen.
Massage should be avoided if you have vaginal bleeding,
diarrhoea or abdominal pain.
It is not recommended that pregnant women lie on the abdomen as
this can place unnecessary strain on the lower back. Some therapists may provide
a couch or table with a hole cut out for the abdomen but this is still ill
advised.
It is advisable that you consult your health care provider
before receiving massage during pregnancy and ensure you choose a suitably
qualified practitioner with whom you can discuss your health conditions
beforehand, in order for treatment to be modified to meet your individual needs.
Pregnancy Massage Booking a Treatment
When booking a pregnancy massage ensure that the practitioner
has been trained specifically in pregnancy massage and doesnt just cite this on
their information leaflet.
Once you have found a suitable therapist you can begin to enjoy
the benefits of pregnancy massage for the duration of your pregnancy and beyond.
The benefits of massage at any time are great so go on, what are you waiting
for?
On all forms of massage and the benefits including more on
pregnancy massage visit our website at
www.privatelyyours.co.uk
