Prenatal Massage Therapy

What Is A Prenatal Massage?

A prenatal or pregnancy massage is a massage that is performed to expecting mothers. A prenatal massage is similar to a Swedish massage because light to medium pressure is applied. A deep tissue massage is not recommended for expecting mothers. The massage techniques that are used in a prenatal massage session are the same techniques used in a Swedish massage session. Effleurage (long gliding strokes of the muscles) and petrissage (a kneading motion of the muscles) are the primary massage strokes that are used in a prenatal massage. Some therapists perform prenatal massages with the client laying in a side-laying position, while others have special designed pillows that allow the client to lay face down. There should always be good communication between the client and the massage therapist during a prenatal massage. A client should let the massage therapist know immediately if they feel any discomfort at any time in the massage session. A prenatal massage should be a relaxing and calming experience for the client. The American Pregnancy Association says that women can begin massage at any point during a pregnancy, but most massage therapists recommend waiting until the second trimester of pregnancy.

The benefits of a prenatal massage are many for expecting mothers. Many clients who are pregnant, experience low back pain. Receiving a prenatal massage is a great way to help relieve lower back pain that is usually associated with being pregnant. Prenatal massages have also been known to decrease anxiety and stress which many women experience during pregnancy, especially first-time mothers. Clients who have trouble sleeping, often report better sleeping habits when prenatal massages are done on a regular basis. Prenatal massages can benefit expecting mothers in many ways. Studies also point to the fact that clients who received prenatal massages regularly, have reduced labor pains during childbirth.

If you are an expecting mother, you will highly benefit from a prenatal massage. Many pregnant clients often experience low back pain. This is commonly associated with carrying a baby. A prenatal massage can help to alleviate this pain. Many clients report a decrease in low back pain after receiving a prenatal massage. Pregnancy can be a stressful time, especially for new expecting mothers. New expecting mothers, even women who have experienced child birth before, can benefit from a prenatal massage because of the stress relief that it provides. If you are experiencing pain, stress, anxiety, or depression while pregnant, a prenatal massage could benefit you.

Prenatal massages are normally safe for most expecting mothers. But for some pregnant clients, they should be avoided. You should always refer to your doctor to make sure that a prenatal massage is safe for you. Clients who have been having complications with their current pregnancy, or have had a history of complications in the past, should avoid prenatal massages. Expecting mothers who are high risk should not receive prenatal massages.

Clients can receive a prenatal massage in a side-laying position or face down in a special designed pillow. The massage strokes that are performed in a Swedish massage, will also be the same strokes that will be performed in a prenatal massage. The client should be relaxed and comfortable while the massage session is being performed, and should inform their massage therapist of any discomfort. Safety is always first when performing a prenatal massage.

A prenatal massage session should be limited to an hour. This is an adequate time to address the clients need and provide relief for the expecting mother.