What is pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy massage is massage therapy specifically tailored for the expectant mother's needs. It is also called pre-natal massage.

How is pregnancy massage different from regular massage?
The mother's body must be properly positioned and supported during the massage, using pillows and padding. Proper positioning ensures comfort and safety for the mother and baby.

Also, some massage techniques, such as deep tissue work, cannot be used. Certain areas of the body should be avoided during pregnancy.

What are the benefits of pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy massage has been found to reduce stress, decrease swelling in the arms and legs, and relieve aches and pains in muscles and joints.

It's a popular complementary therapy during pregnancy for back pain, when choices for pain relief, such as medication, are often limited.Not only can massage be physically beneficial, but the human touch can be comforting and provide emotional support during pregnancy.Massage therapy has been found to reduce anxiety and depression.

Who do I go to for pregnancy massage?

Look for a massage therapist who is certified in pregnancy massage.
That means that the therapist has had specialized training in pregnancy massage, and knows what is safe for the mother and baby.

Precautions

Many massage therapists do not recommend massage in the first trimester. Also, women with certain health conditions may not be able to have pregnancy massage.It's best to consult your doctor and a certified pregnancy massage therapist.

Massage In Pregnancy:

Many women suffer from aches and pains, stiffness and tension during pregnancy.Gentle massage can often help to relieve problems such as backache, sleeplessness, edema, headaches, and other minor complaints.

Before Birth:

Back pain is extremely common in pregnancy (as well as during the period of breastfeeding, or having to carry small children).It can be relieved by massage to the whole of the back area, the neck, legs, and feet, and by gentle stroking of the abdomen.Poor circulation also affects many pregnant women, and can be helped by a general body massage, which stimulates and improves the blood flow throughout the body.Leg massage, stroking from the ankles up toward the thighs, can help relax the body, relieve pain and reduce swelling in the legs(but avoid working directly over varicose veins).For women who develop problems sleeping, the soothing effects of massage can help relax and calm.Some pregnant women claim that lightly massaging the abdomen can even help to send the foetus to sleep.As well as relaxing and soothing away physical symptoms, massage can be a wonderful way of including your partner and children in the course of your pregnancy.

Pregnant women should check with their physician before having a massage.In cases where the physician recommends that the lower back and abdomen area should be avoided, massage the face, hands, arms, and feet to assist in relaxation.

When And How To Massage:

Although some schools recommend avoiding massage during the first three months of pregnancy, many women find gentle massage throughout their pregnancy to be very beneficial.When massaging a pregnant woman you must be very gentle, particularly on the abdomen and lower back.Avoid using deep pressure and percussive strokes.

Oils For Use During Pregnancy :

1.Mandarin
2.Neroli
3.Petitgrain
4.Tangerine
5.Ylang-ylang
6.Geranium
7.Lemon
8.Sandalwood
9.Tea Tree