Massage during pregnancy offers undeniable physical benefits throughout every prenatal stage. Research has shown that women who receive massage while pregnant may have easier deliveries, a reduced chance of post-partum depression, and regain their bodies more quickly. In most cases, massage is perfectly safe and can help the mother-to-be relieve general body aches, pains, and tension that her body is going through while also feeling pampered at the same time.
Massage during pregnancy
Each trimester bring its own challenges for which massage can offer relief. Some lesser known benefits include:
- Stimulating blood flow - believed to prevent anemia
- Increasing muscle tone and flexibility - alleviating muscle cramps and spasms
- Stimulating the lymphatic system - thought to help prevent / reduce edema
- Relieving headaches
- Alleviating morning sickness
- Reducing fatigue
- Alleviating backaches and leg cramps
- Enhancing sleep
- Alleviating ligament pain
- Relieving aches and pains
- Alleviating stress on weight-bearing joints
- Fostering relaxation skills
- Releasing physical and emotional tension
Massage after delivery
Massage during the weeks and months after delivery helps to restore muscle tone in the abdomen and reposition the pelvis. Plus, it can give a new mom some time to relax and possibly a chance for some much-needed quiet time and sleep. Depending on the how delivery goes, some women feel “up to” a massage a week or so after delivery, while others may find it beneficial to wait 6 weeks or more. Check with your doctor to determine the best time to receive a massage following your delivery.
Risks
Most women with normal low-risk pregnancies can receive massage with no problem after completing the first trimester. However, if the pregnancy is high-risk or conditions such as pre-term labor, pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, DVT, or severe edema are present, massage may not be advised. Women with any of these conditions should consult their doctor before proceeding with a massage.
Some women are also concerned about their positioning during a pregnancy massage and the potential risks to their child. Generally, massages are delivered with mothers positioned on their side using specially designed bolsters and pillows to allow therapists access to their back. This approach has been shown to be completely safe for the mother and child.
About Arnica Wellness:
Arnica Wellness is an Edmonton massage and acupuncture clinic. We help clients gain relief from pain and sore muscles, improve motion and reduce stress.