Benefits of Prenatal Massage

Prenatal Massage for Moms-To-Be in Mill Creek

A massage can help with many different ailments, including chronic pain, injuries, sore muscles, headaches, anxiety, and depression and those are just the benefits for someone who isn’t pregnant. If you are pregnant and considering a massage, it’s a smart choice. A prenatal massage can help any pregnancy-related aches and pains, such as sciatic pain, and also help you relax. Pregnancy can take its toll on a woman’s body and a massage can help alleviate many of the effects of carrying a baby. To learn more about the benefits prenatal massages, read on.

What is Prenatal Massage?

A prenatal massage is similar to a regular massage, but there are some special adjustments that may be made. During a regular massage, you generally start by laying on your stomach. This obviously isn’t possible during a prenatal massage unless there is a special pregnancy pillow with a cutout for your stomach which we have here at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness. Otherwise, you will get the massage lying on your side or on your back.

All muscles are safe to massage during a prenatal massage, so be sure to let your massage therapist know if you have any areas that you would like them to focus on (or avoid).

When Can I Get a Prenatal Massage?

Generally, women can get a massage at any time during their pregnancy. However, some therapists will not massage a woman who is in her first trimester, as the miscarriage risk is highest during this time period. Discuss this with your doctor and your massage therapist to determine when the right time for you is to get a massage.

Is It Safe?

In general, prenatal massages are safe, but if you are a high-risk pregnancy you should always speak with your doctor first. If you are high-risk or have certain conditions, your doctor may recommend that you don’t get a massage. These conditions include:

• preeclampsia
• high blood pressure
• pregnancy-induced hypertension
• pre-term labor
• severe swelling
• bleeding

If you get the okay from your doctor to get a massage, you should make sure that your therapist is certified in prenatal massage. Prenatal massage therapists have extra training and know how to safely position you while you are pregnant, watching for symptoms like blood clots or varicose veins, and making sure that you have support to prevent straining uterine ligaments.

Swedish massage is the most recommended type of massage for pregnant women, as it focuses on reducing muscle tension and improving blood circulation and lymphatic functions in your body. Your therapist can focus on areas where you are having pain, sore muscles, swollen feet, or simply focus on relaxation. The benefits of prenatal massage for your overall well-being is highly important during this exciting time in your life.

While we do not offer massage therapy, our office specializes in prenatal chiropractic treatments.  If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment for these services, please click the link below. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness!