Pregnancy massage has been found to reduce stress, decrease swelling in the arms and legs, and relieve aches and pains in muscles and joints.
It’s a popular complementary therapy during pregnancy for back pain, when choices for pain relief, such as medication, are often limited.
Not only can pregnancy massage be physical beneficial, but the human touch can be comforting and provide emotional support during pregnancy.
Pregnancy Massage therapy has also been found to reduce:
-anxiety and depression; reduce stress; increase in sleep; reduction in muscle tension; reduction in pain.
Many massage therapists do not recommend massage in the first trimester.
Also, women with certain health conditions may not be able to have pregnancy massage such as:
You’re experiencing nausea, vomiting, or morning sickness.
You’re at high risk of miscarriage.
You have a high-risk pregnancy such as placental eruption. You’ll need to avoid massage in an area where you have a blood clot or a bone fracture. Avoid massage on any area where you have a skin injury or condition that could be aggravated by rubbing, including burns, open wounds, skin infections, or eczema.
Don’t use hot tubs, saunas, and treatments such as hot wraps. These can make you overheat, which can cause problems for you and your baby. Buy a gift of prenatal massage therapy for your loved one!