When you become pregnant, your health and wellness options become vitally important. The health benefits of receiving massage during your pregnancy are numerous. But like all other decisions about your prenatal health, choosing a massage therapist should be done with thought and investigation.
How are the health of mother and baby improved by receiving prenatal massage?
Massage therapy is always useful for relaxation, pain relief, and loosening tight muscles. Pregnant women can expect those same great effects from massage, plus some that help the baby and pregnancy conditions, too.
A few benefits of receiving prenatal massage include:
- Enhances nutrient and oxygen flow for mother and baby
- Reduces swelling
- Promotes relaxation and tension relief
- Decreases hip and pelvic pain
- Relaxes painful areas like back and hips
- Loosens tight muscles and stiff joints
How is pregnancy massage different from other massage?
Most massage styles are founded in relaxing Swedish massage. Some therapists also use more therapeutic approaches for medical conditions and chronic tensions.
Pregnancy massage is mostly a modification of Swedish massage. The therapist makes accommodations so that the client (you, the Mom-to-be) is comfortable and peaceful.
Prenatal massage is always relaxing, with many therapeutic effects. However, massage therapists express that it becomes increasingly difficult as the mother grows larger to provide Deep Tissue and firmer pressure during the massage. This is mainly due to positioning of the client on the table.
Again, relaxation is the goal, moreso than deep, clinical application.
How do I know which massage therapist to see for my prenatal massage?
You will find relief in the hands of almost any massage therapist who offers prenatal massage. However, choosing the best therapist for you and your baby’s needs can make a huge difference in your experience.
If you and your therapist are an exceptional “fit”, you’ll want to get pregnant all over again just to keep getting regular massages!
First, choose a massage therapist who is certified and specially-trained in prenatal massage. And one who seeks prenatal clients because they are excited to support your pregnancy and good health.
Avoid getting massages from therapists who are not specially trained, or who seem even-slightly hesitant about working on a pregnant woman. There are many passionate, caring, and qualified therapists to be found.
Next, interview your prospective therapist. Join them for a cup of tea. Ask about their background, and what other kinds of wellness care they provide.
If the massage therapist has a background in another health field, they may be more competent to answer questions and adjust their treatments to your body’s changing needs. For example, a therapist who is also a midwife or doula can help your delivery. A therapist who also practices fitness training can offer exercise guidelines that are safe and effective for your prenatal fitness needs. A therapist who was formally a nurse will know how gestational diabetes and edema contribute to your pregnancy, and to your massage experience.
Trust your instincts. If you meet a massage therapist who does not seem to understand your lifestyle, or who does not agree with your healthcare choices, you are free to seek another therapist.
As your pregnancy progresses, you may wish to get more frequent massages. Monthly may become bi-monthly, and then weekly, depending on your needs and physical challenges that arise.
Like any other choice you make about your pregnancy or your baby’s health, your choices in health and wellness providers are based on long-term relationships of no less than nine months. Your prenatal massage therapist should be chosen with these same considerations.