Massage for Prenatal and Postpartum Care
Our bodies go through so many changes during the childbearing year. Massage is a sensible form of body maintenance, which helps many body systems respond positively and remain in balance. Massage therapy provides benefits to not only the musculo-skeletal system but also to the lymphatic, vascular, nervous, endocrine and energetic systems. It is important to find a massage therapist who has studied this form of massage and who understands the protocols and cautions related to prenatal massage treatment of mothers in the different stages of their prenatal experience.
Massage therapy is relaxing and calming. It is a boon for everyone who may experience the effects of tension and chronic tension. It is a sensible approach to supporting and balancing body systems during times of change and growth. Whether the individual is beginning a new fitness regimen or work situation that calls for development and conditioning of little used muscle groups or is experiencing the changes of the childbearing year, massage therapy helps to maintain and restore proper balance of the body. As muscles adapt to changing demands, the lactic acid byproduct of anaerobic activity increases, resulting in tension of muscle fibers. Fascia are sheets or bands of fibrous connective tissue which envelops surround and supports individual muscle fibers, whole muscles and muscle groups. In pregnancy, we often develop tension in the muscles and fascia groups of the abdomen, lower back, glutes and hips. Careful manipulation and stretching of muscular and fascial tissues encourages proper circulation of blood and lymph. Muscles are pressed and stretched to release lactic acids and oxidants, which are eliminated from the body effectively with proper hydration. Be sure to drink extra water on massage day! Fascial structures are slowly and gently stretched to increase range of motion and decrease pressure on the joints. Superficial Swedish techniques such as the long flowing strokes of gentle effleurage encourage proper flow of fluids through the lymphatic and vascular systems. Nerves are calmed and relaxed as tension melts away. Endorphins are released and a feeling of well being fills the mind. A sense of contentment and comfort settles in as excessive energy is released and grounded. A therapist experienced with Reiki or Quantum Touch can help to achieve a state of energetic balance and proper flow of Qi through the Chakra energy centers of the body. Energetic pathways, points and meridians are opened and blocks to proper flow are released. The client may be inspired to slow and increase the breath; infusing the blood with fresh oxygen.
During each stage of pregnancy, precautions are observed in body placement and positioning. If a standard table or mat is used for the massage session, Mom will be lying on her side most of the time. Be sure to alert your therapist if at any time you feel uncomfortable. Your therapist may also ask you to sit up in order to place even pressure to lower back, sacrum and hips. This move helps to release tension across the muscle and fascia of the lower back. Special pillows or a table with a belly hole may be used to allow Mom to lay face down. Proper body positioning for rest should be observed at home as well. Many moms will use a large sturdy tractor tire tube on the floor on the pool deck or the yard to lay on for short time periods during the day and special body pillows for sleeping at night. Try different body positions and aids to see which works for you. It is possible to minimize tension and pain during pregnancy.
Choose a therapist who understands and observes cautions related to acupressure points at the ankles and wrists. These energetic pressure points may be stimulated to stimulate the uterus and even induce labor. A properly trained therapist will demonstrate this knowledge and avoid stimulating the points during pregnancy. This information is taught as part of the curriculum standards of the NCBTMB. Every licensed therapist should have a working knowledge of this basic concept.
Massage care may be continued after the child is born in order to support the body systems as they return to their pre-pregnancy state. After your 6-week postpartum checkup, it is a great time to see your massage therapist for a muscle-joint "tune-up" and realignment. If you are breastfeeding, you may find that tension develops in the upper back as a result of the increased weight of the breasts. Shoulders and arms may develop tension while carrying the baby and performing household chores associated with baby care. The effects of altered sleeping patterns, postpartum syndrome and increased stress can all be reduced with massage therapy as a part of your wellness program. Some therapists may offer gift registry for baby showers or reduced rates for prenatal and postpartum care packages! Speak with your local LMT today regarding your interest in prenatal and postpartum massage.
