Prenatal Massage
Answers to 5 Common Questions You Were Afraid to Ask!
Over six million American women become pregnant every year. More of these women are becoming interested in prenatal massage to help make their pregnancy and labor easier because prenatal massage is designed to relieve common discomforts and stress during each trimester. Prenatal massage can help reduce swelling in lower extremities, increase skin elasticity and reduce stretch marks, improve sleep, aid digestion, and reduce pelvic pain. Prenatal massage promotes deep relaxation in mothers which creates a healthier emotional state for her and the unborn baby.
I have compiled some of the most frequently asked and even occasionally humorous questions my clients have asked when they have come for prenatal massage just in case you were wondering about the same things but didn't know who to ask!
“I bet this massage is going to be just like the massage I got last year when I wasn't pregnant.”
Me: There is more than one client that is benefitting from the massage. Additionally, a prenatal massage is longer in length because of the extra time it takes to position the client on the table. There are additional exercises and breath instructions that aid in not only positioning her on the table but also in helping her to relax more deeply. Specialized massage techniques are used to focus on the most affected areas of a pregnant woman's body.
“You do this prenatal massage on a table with a hole for my belly, don't you?”
Me: Actually, not. Prenatal massage used to be done on tables like these, but for the most part, this equipment is becoming obsolete. These tables were thought to be helpful, but even with a hole, the tables still applied too much pressure to the abdomen and often allowed the abdomen to dangle causing undue pain from ligament stretching. The best position for a prenatal massage is either semi-reclining or side lying. Multiple pillows are used to help adjust and comfort a woman when on the standard massage table.
“I heard I can't get a massage in the first trimester because I might lose the baby.”
Me: This is not correct, and one of the most common questions I receive. While miscarriages can be unfortunately common in the first trimester, there has been no data linking miscarriage and prenatal massage. It is important to note that it makes the most sense to visit a certified prenatal massage therapist. Improper massage techniques can inadvertently induce pregnancy. Sometimes, massage techniques can be used in advanced pregnancy to induce desired labor. Always, women in their fist trimester and either stressed or tired, and excited or scared about their role as a mother. Massage can help them to relax and breathe more effectively to better internalize the psychological andemotional changes they are facing in the next several months.
“You can only touch me very lightly when you massage me. Right?”
Me: Some women truly enjoy a deeper massage, while others prefer a moderate or lighter-touch massage. Skilled massage therapists establish good communication with their clients about their pressure preferences and closely track their clients' responses during the session. It is safe for a pregnant woman to have massage of varying pressure in most parts of the body, however, it is never appropriate for deep-tissue work to be done on the abdomen or on the inner thighs.
“Stay away from my feet. Massaging my feet might make me go into labor. Isn't that correct?”
Me: Pregnant women actually need and greatly benefit from foot massage. As long as the massage therapist observes the contraindicated reflexive zones and accurpressure points on the feet. There has to be a great amount of pressure supported by great intention to activate these labor induced reflexologic points. A foot massage will help reduce swelling (edema) and keep circulation in the legs healthy, preventing calf cramps and spider veins.
It is important to remember that a pregnant woman can always ask their doctor if massage therapy is a reasonable activity before seeking a massage therapist. Also, be sure to ask if your massage therapist has specialized, advanced training in prenatal massage additional to their national certification and other massage credentialing.