Displaying items by tag: expecting mothers
The Benefits of Prenatal Massage
If you are an expecting mother, you know all too well that your body is going through some major changes. Whether you are early in your first trimester or rounding the corner of month nine, taking care of your body is of the utmost priority for both you and your baby. Prenatal massage can be a widely beneficial part of your self care routine as you prepare to welcome a new life into your home.
Considering Prenatal Massage
First thing is first, you will want to talk to both your doctor and your massage therapist to understand the necessary precautions you may need to take. No two pregnancies are alike, so having an open line of communication with your OB and your massage therapist will help you get the most out of your prenatal massages and ensure that you are safe throughout your pregnancy.
Body Position
One of the most common questions we hear from women who are considering prenatal massage is “how am I going to lay?” An understandable concern as your belly expands, prenatal massage accommodates this by having the patient lay on their side. Your massage therapist will also have pillows in a variety of shapes and sizes to help you find a comfortable position for your massage.
The Benefits of Prenatal Massage
First Trimester
Prenatal massage during the first trimester faces a lot of scrutiny. With the OK from your doctor, an experienced massage therapist can help you have a safe and relaxing experience during your prenatal massage.
During the first trimester, your body is going through fewer physical changes than it is hormonal. Prenatal massage can help alleviate the headaches, constipation, and even morning sickness that is common during the first twelve weeks of your pregnancy. Pregnancy is not only taxing physically, but also mentally. Massage can be a beneficial part of your self-care routine to help you relax and improve your overall well-being. Incorporating this early in your pregnancy helps set the standard for your body.
Second Trimester
For many women, during this stage of the pregnancy, the hormonal changes that cause morning sickness and other symptoms begin to subside. This is the point when the physical changes your body is going through begin to shift your center of gravity. You may begin to experience back pain and other tense muscles, which prenatal massage can be very beneficial in treating. Massage increases blood flow to the tissues in your body, helping them remain healthy throughout the stages of pregnancy.
Third Trimester
The final stage of your pregnancy brings both physical and mental stress and you prepare your home and body for the baby. During this stage, the physical tax on your body increases as the baby gets heavier so prenatal massage provides the necessary care needed to relax your muscles. Additionally, prenatal massage can help your abdominal and pelvic muscles prepare for the upcoming birthing process.
Overall, prenatal massage can play a strategic role throughout your pregnancy in keeping your mind and body healthy. Not only does and experienced prenatal massage therapist have the capability to relieve some of the muscular discomfort that accompanies your changing body, but they can also aide in the regulation of your system to alleviate symptoms like headaches, heartburn, and anxiety.
If you are expecting and interested in learning more about prenatal massage and the benefits it can offer throughout your pregnancy, contact Wayfare Wellness today.