For centuries, massage therapy has been a way of reducing stress, improving one’s general health, and easing sore muscles and joints. Modern research indicates that prenatal and postpartum massage can be an important part of maternity care. Many massage therapists are specifically trained in providing massage during the course of pregnancy and afterward. It’s best to ask your therapist about his or her qualifications to ensure you get the best possible outcome.

Hormone Regulation

During pregnancy, the hormone levels that regulate stress and relaxation can be affected. With massage therapy, stress hormones like cortisol and norepinephrine can be reduced, and serotonin and dopamine levels increased. This can mean fewer delivery complications and less chance of low birth weight. Twice-weekly massages can be a valuable component of prenatal care.

Reduced Nerve Pain

Because the uterus rests on the muscles of the lower back and the pelvic floor, many women in late pregnancy experience pain in the sciatic nerve. Massage therapy works on the muscles adjacent to the nerves in order to ease the pain.

Reduced Swelling

One of the most common complaints during pregnancy is edema. This is a swelling in the joints that is caused by the uterus exerting pressure on the main blood vessels, which has an adverse effect on circulation. Fluids then begin to collect around the joints. Massage stimulates the soft tissues, reducing fluid collection.

Other Benefits of Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage can also muscle tension and lower the risk of headaches. Many women report that they sleep better when they have regular massages. As with any supplemental care during pregnancy, it is, of course, best to consult with your OB/GYN before considering massage therapy. This is particularly important if your pregnancy is high-risk.

For most women, massage therapy can enhance their overall health, and the outcomes can be positive for both mother and newborn.

Postpartum Massage

Following birth, massage therapy can also be beneficial. The benefits are much the same as they are with prenatal massage, and in addition, massage helps to restore your body to its pre-pregnancy condition. An additional benefit is an improvement in breast feeding.

It’s well-known that breast feeding is the best method of delivering nutrition to a newborn, but some mothers find it challenging and some even consider it unpleasant. With massage therapy, your body is relaxed, your circulation is increased, and the body finds it easier to produce milk. Relaxing the chest muscles can increase the levels of prolactin, which is what causes you to lactate. Massaging the breast itself can reduce pain, decrease the level of sodium in the milk, and make it easier for the newborn to suckle. However, it should be noted that in some areas, direct manipulation of the breast is not legal. Your therapist can advise you on this matter.

When to Begin Postpartum Massage

Massage therapy following birth can take place as soon as you feel comfortable. A trained therapist will know how to help you find a comfortable position if your breasts or abdomen are sore. If you’ve had a difficult birth, it would be best to consult with your OB/GYN before beginning postpartum massage therapy.

Aromatherapy and  Postpartum Massage

Many therapists will employ aromatherapy as part of your holistic treatment. This involves the use of essential oils during your massage. These are pure plant extractions that help with cleansing, hormone balance and relaxation, and they are also believed to be effective in treating depression or anxiety. The oils may be directly applied to your body, added to a soothing lotion, or released into the air using a diffusion device. They’re generally non-allergenic and have no adverse side effects, but it would be best to tell your therapist if you’re breast feeding. There may be an additional charge for aromatherapy.

Bringing Baby to the Appointment

Due to interruptions for nursing or changing, it may be necessary to build some extra time into your appointment. If you’re planning to bring your baby along when you come for your massage, let your therapist know. Most will gladly accommodate your little one, but it’s best to state your intention.

Summary

Prenatal and postpartum massage can result in enhanced health for the majority of women. You’ll experience less discomfort and anxiety during pregnancy, and a speedier recovery following the birth. If you’re considering massage therapy, consult your medical practitioner. Most of the time you’ll get an enthusiastic thumbs up for including massage therapy as part of your prenatal and postpartum care.

You might even want to think about bringing Dad along for a nice, relaxing massage. It’s the perfect stress-buster, and you can bet that after nine long months, and all the drama that’s attendant in welcoming home the new little visitor, he could use a little soothing too!

Have your aches, pains and stress massaged away today – call today to book an appointment. 

Sources:

http://www.pregnancy.org/article/benefits-pregnancy-massage

http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancyhealth/prenatalmassage.html

http://americanpregnancy.org/firstyearoflife/postpartum-massage.html