The Benefits of Prenatal Massage
Pregnancy is a beautiful experience, but it can also come with some discomforts. One way to help ease these pains is through massage. Prenatal massage, while similar to regular massage therapy, is tailored to focus on relaxing tense muscles, relieving sore spots, improving circulation and mobility, and reducing both mental and physical fatigue. This makes prenatal massage beneficial for many expecting mothers.
According to the articles Benefits of Prenatal Massage from Massage Magazine and Prenatal Massage: Help for Your Pregnancy Aches and Pains from BabyCenter, prenatal massage offers a range of benefits. Some of the most notable advantages include:
- Enhancing mood and reducing stress levels by releasing endorphins
- Reducing symptoms of prenatal depression and anxiety
- Lowering the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight in babies of women with prenatal depression
- Easing pressure on weight-bearing joints and musculoskeletal structures
- Relieving common pregnancy discomforts like pain and stiffness
- Increasing blood circulation
- Helping maintain good posture and adapting to changes in alignment due to a growing baby
- Offering a drug-free alternative for pain relief
An important consideration is the position you’ll be in during the massage. Unlike traditional massages, lying face down can become uncomfortable later in pregnancy. Most women find side-lying positions with plenty of pillow support to be more comfortable. Your Vancouver Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) can also provide a special pillow setup on the treatment table, allowing you to lie on your stomach for a while without pressure on your belly or chest.
It’s essential to keep your RMT informed about any changes in your health, especially those related to pregnancy, during your prenatal massage sessions. Clear communication is key, and if you experience any discomfort with positioning or pressure during your treatment, let your RMT know so they can make adjustments.
Broadway Wellness is a Integrated Health Care Clinic focused around a core group of Vancouver Registered Massage Therapists. We also offer Naturopathic Medicine, Registered Acupuncture, and Reflexology, in an expansive clinic on West Broadway and Willow overlooking False Creek. Click Here to Book an Appointment.