Prenatal Massage useful in Pregnancy
Prenatal massage is a wonderful pain relief during pregnancy.
For most women, pregnancy means achy muscles, sore body parts and a general feeling of fatigue. If you're looking for relief, try a prenatal massage. It offers a great way to relieve the common stresses of pregnancy.
For safety purposes, it is important to visit a massage therapist who is specially trained in prenatal massage. Massage therapists can become certified in prenatal massage and tailor their techniques to the requirements of pregnant women. There are pressure points in a woman's body that should not be targeted during pregnancy, and certified prenatal massage therapists know what places to avoid for the safety of their clients.
As is the case with traditional massage techniques, prenatal massage has many benefits for pregnant women.
These include:
It is important that the position of the body is taken into consideration during a prenatal massage. It is not safe for women to lie on their backs for an extended amount of time during pregnancy, nor is it comfortable for pregnant women to lie on their stomachs. Most prenatal massage therapists recommend a side lying position for pregnant women or a semi-inclined position. Although some therapists may offer a massage table with a hole cut out for the pregnant belly, these are not safe or comfortable. Body pillows and wedge pillows are usually provided for additional comfort.
Although prenatal massage can be performed at any point of the pregnancy, many therapists will not offer prenatal massage during the first trimester due to the increased risk of miscarriage during that time. The cost of prenatal massage varies by location and the education/training of the therapist you choose to visit. On average, a one-hour session will cost approximately $50-$100. If your healthcare provider has recommended prenatal massage in an effort to relieve aches and pains, check with your insurance provider to see if prenatal massages may be covered.
Women who are suffering from hypertension, preeclampsia, severe headaches, blood clots or high risk pregnancy should speak to their healthcare provider before receiving prenatal massage. In addition, prenatal massage is not suggested for women who are experiencing symptoms of preterm labor.
For most women, pregnancy means achy muscles, sore body parts and a general feeling of fatigue. If you're looking for relief, try a prenatal massage. It offers a great way to relieve the common stresses of pregnancy.
For safety purposes, it is important to visit a massage therapist who is specially trained in prenatal massage. Massage therapists can become certified in prenatal massage and tailor their techniques to the requirements of pregnant women. There are pressure points in a woman's body that should not be targeted during pregnancy, and certified prenatal massage therapists know what places to avoid for the safety of their clients.
As is the case with traditional massage techniques, prenatal massage has many benefits for pregnant women.
These include:
- Relief of aches and pains associated with pregnancy, including the back, neck, legs and feet
- Promoting a general sense of relaxation
- Better sleep
- Decreased stress levels
- Regulation of hormones and increased mood stability
- Reduced swelling and edema
- Improved circulation
- Reduced pressure on joints
- Increased relaxation during labor
It is important that the position of the body is taken into consideration during a prenatal massage. It is not safe for women to lie on their backs for an extended amount of time during pregnancy, nor is it comfortable for pregnant women to lie on their stomachs. Most prenatal massage therapists recommend a side lying position for pregnant women or a semi-inclined position. Although some therapists may offer a massage table with a hole cut out for the pregnant belly, these are not safe or comfortable. Body pillows and wedge pillows are usually provided for additional comfort.
Although prenatal massage can be performed at any point of the pregnancy, many therapists will not offer prenatal massage during the first trimester due to the increased risk of miscarriage during that time. The cost of prenatal massage varies by location and the education/training of the therapist you choose to visit. On average, a one-hour session will cost approximately $50-$100. If your healthcare provider has recommended prenatal massage in an effort to relieve aches and pains, check with your insurance provider to see if prenatal massages may be covered.
Women who are suffering from hypertension, preeclampsia, severe headaches, blood clots or high risk pregnancy should speak to their healthcare provider before receiving prenatal massage. In addition, prenatal massage is not suggested for women who are experiencing symptoms of preterm labor.
