Massage and Pregnancy
Massage is a wonderful way to relax, increase your energy and relieve discomfort during your pregnancy. The caring touch of massage can help you experience your changing body in a positive, accepting way.
Coping with stress and fatigue: A soothing massage can relieve physical and emotional tension, help you sleep better and boost your energy. Massage loosens tight muscles and calms the nervous system. Circulation increases, bringing energy-producing nutrients to your cells and carrying away metabolic waste products that can make you feel listless.
Easing aches and pains: Massage can help with many of the aches and pains you experience as our body changes. For example, massage helps to:
- reduce muscle cramps and painful trigger points
- relieve pain in the muscles and joints of your legs, low back and upper back
- reduce excess fluid retention
- slow the progress of varicose veins
- relieve headaches
Learning self-care techniques: Besides the immediate relief you get from a massage, you may also learn ways to increase your comfort at home, for example how to use pillows for support when you are lying down. Your massage therapist might suggest gentle exercises and stretches to help relieve tension.
Is massage always appropriate? Massage is healthy and enjoyable during a normal pregnancy. However, it is a good idea to inform your primary health care provider before receiving prenatal or postpartum massage. Because massage is not appropriate for some conditions, keep your massage therapist updated about your health, including any changes, even if you are not sure they are important. Remember, any condition you have now affects you and your baby.
Postpartum massage: In the postpartum period, it is as important to care for yourself as it is during your pregnancy. Massage can help you handle the physical demands of caring for a newborn by reducing tension and increasing energy. If you are nursing, a relaxing massage can help reduce tension which interferes with milk letdown. Emotionally, massage can nurture and comfort you whether or not you are experiencing postpartum “blues”. When to schedule your first postpartum massage will depend on how your delivery went and what your health care provider and massage therapist feel is best for you.
For you and your baby: Regular massage during your pregnancy and postpartum period can relieve your physical symptoms and help you manage stress. Because it supports your physical health and energy, massage can help you more easily adjust to the many changes in your body and the demands of your new life. Just taking time out for a massage can improve your outlook on life, supporting both you and your baby during this time of so many changes.
