Transforming Pregnancy with Massage
Massage is now generally considered part of complementary and integrative medicine and is increasingly being offered for pregnancy. Studies of the benefits of massage demonstrate that it is an effective treatment during and after pregnancy. Some of the many benefits of massage pre and post pregnancy are: 1. Helps reduce leg cramps 2.
Helps reduce lower back and pelvic pain 3. Helps to reduce swelling in hands and feet 4. Reduces anxiety and depression 5. Helps with sleep 6. Helps reduce headaches and tension through shoulders and back due to breast feeding 7. Helps reduce general aches and pains associated with pregnancy 8. Regulates and reduces hormones such as norepinephrine and cortisol (hormones associated with stress) and promotes dopamine and serotonin levels (hormones associated with reducing stress) Exercise Pre & Post Pregnancy Generally, exercise is recommended and encouraged pre and post pregnancy unless otherwise stated by your obstetrician/doctor.
You will find your energy levels will vary at different stages of your pregnancy and it is important to get plenty of sleep and rest when you are not feeling energetic. Creating a whole new person takes a lot of energy. There are several exercise options you can do during your pregnancy to assist with muscle pains, cramping, weight control, birthing and general well-being.
Some of those are: 1. Yoga – making sure you get a clearance from your obstetrician and the yoga class is taken by a fully trained yoga teacher who has been trained in pregnancy yoga 2. Swimming – an excellent choice for swelling especially during summer months 3. Most hospitals have an exercise program which you can attend 4. Pilates is an excellent way to help regain your strength through the pelvic floor and as always, make sure the instructor is qualified in pregnancy Pilates Note: After your baby is born you will be seen by a physio to explain what is happening with your post-baby body and given some exercises to do.
Pregnancy changes posture, load and sleep. Massage addresses all three.
All No More Knots Clinics are equipped with special pregnancy tables to accommodate all stages of pregnancy and have therapists qualified in pregnancy massage. So, go ahead and book in for your pregnancy massage at one of our conveniently located clinics (Greenslopes, Taringa or Newmarket). Written By, Tracy Warren (Senior Remedial Therapist) Tags: postnatal pregnancy pregnancy massage pregnant women prenatal well-being
Frequently Asked Questions
Is massage safe during pregnancy?
For most healthy pregnancies it is generally considered safe when delivered by a therapist experienced in pregnancy work and with appropriate positioning. We ask about your pregnancy, your history and any complications before we begin. If you have a high risk pregnancy or any complications, check with your GP, midwife or obstetrician first.
Which trimester can I start?
Many clinics, including ours, prefer to treat after the first trimester. If you would like treatment in the first trimester, speak with your GP or midwife first and let us know what they advise.
How will I lie on the table?
Usually side lying with pillows and bolsters for support, which is comfortable and avoids any pressure on the abdomen. We do not use tables with a cut out for the belly. Your therapist will set you up and adjust until you are genuinely comfortable.
Can it help with pregnancy back pain?
Research reviewing several small trials has reported less back and leg pain, lower anxiety and improved mood among pregnant women receiving regular massage. The studies were small, so treat it as encouraging rather than guaranteed, and keep your maternity care team in the loop.
What should I tell my therapist?
How far along you are, any complications or conditions, anything your maternity team has advised, and any medication you are taking. Also tell them during the session if any position stops being comfortable, because that changes as pregnancy progresses.