Massage has been used for centuries to provide muscle relief and relaxation: and if anyone deserves relief and relaxation, it’s moms-to-be; but prenatal massages aren’t just about getting a little R&R for an hour every other week. There are many benefits that come with massage during pregnancy.
Reduction of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms
More recent studies have noted the drop in hormone levels that occurs when massage is added to a prenatal regimen. The lessening of these hormones leads to mood regulation, stabilizing symptoms of depression and anxiety. This also results in better sleep, which continues the cycle of anxiety and depression symptoms being reduced.
Relief for Muscles and Joints
Muscles and joints that bear much of the weight during pregnancy can often become sore and swollen (called edema), causing pain and much discomfort. Massage helps to disperse the fluid built up in joints, alleviating the distress. It also brings oxygen and nutrients back into sore muscles to assist in the healing process.
Benefits the Baby
Massage increases blood flow through the body to bring oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, but that blood flow increase also helps remove waste which improves the baby’s tissue health. They’ll also benefit from the same improved blood circulation you are; and it’s believed by many that the hands-on technique of massage creates a bond of love and nourishment between mother and baby.
Improvement of Delivery
Studies have also shown prenatal massages can aid in pain perception during delivery as well as decrease labor time – 3 hours less on average with less pain medication needed.
If there are any specific symptoms you need to relieve more than others, always speak with your therapist before the session so they know what areas need to be focused on. Prenatal massage is not suggest for some conditions of pregnancy such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and high-risk pregnancy, so make sure you consult your doctor first.
To schedule an appointment for a prenatal massage with us, book online here.