Prenatal massage is a therapeutic massage for pregnant women that helps reduce anxiety, symptoms of depression, joint pains, muscle aches and improves labor outcomes and newborn health.
Swedish massage is one technique that relaxes muscle tension and improves blood and lymph circulation by applying gentle pressure to muscle groups of the body. It is the most recommended massage method during pregnancy as it relieves discomforts brought on by hormone shifts.
Over a 10 year period, studies showed that women receiving prenatal massage bi-weekly for five weeks reduced hormones such as norephinephrine and cortisol (stress hormones) and increased dopamine and serotonin levels (feel good hormones).
Prenatal massage benefits include reductions in back and joint pain; edema (water retention), stress, anxiety, muscle tension and headaches. Improved sleep, better circulation, and greater oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles have all been noted.
All pregnant women, especially those with high risk pregnancy, preeclampsia, hypertension, pre-term labor, severe edema, headaches or high blood pressure should consult with their physician before receiving a massage.
Look for registered massage therapists who have received specific training to address pregnancy massage to find out if this therapy is appropriate for you.
Select a region to view to corresponding Prenatal Massage professionals operating there:
