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Benefits of Massage During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes tremendous changes which can result in a number of uncomfortable conditions, including...
- Low back pain
- Swelling of hands and feet
- Headaches
- Calf cramps
- Insomnia
- Sciatic Pain
- Sinus congestion
How Pregnancy Massage Helps
Massage involves manipulation of the soft tissues, and is the physical movement, stroking and stretching of muscles, tendons, ligament, and other soft tissue. This increases blood circulation to the muscles, resulting in more oxygen and nutrient availability to these tissues. Enhanced blood flow will remove metabolic waste products which build up in the muscles. Soft tissue anipulation can include improving muscle pliability and joint flexibility, decrease muscle tension, and calm nervous irritability.
Precautions
Consult with your primary health care provider prior to receiving pregnancy massage to see if there are any precautions your therapist should take or any reasons why you should not receive massage. Circumstances in which massage should be avoided may include...
- Heavy vaginal discharge (watery or bloody)
- Pre-eclampsia
- Diabetic
- High blood pressure
- Contagious illness
- Morning sickness
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
- Vomitting or Diarrhea
- Any malignant condition
- Unusual pain
As with any massage, be sure to let the massage therapist know if you are uncomfortable, thirsty, need a bathroom break, or have other concerns.
Scheduling Questions
Q: When is it "safe" to receive my first massage during pregnancy?
A: Many massage educators recommend receiving the first massage after 13 weeks gestation. During the second trimester it is suggested that you receive a massage once a week; and in the third trimester you may receive a massage twice a week.
Q: How long will a therapy session last?
A: It will last anywhere between 30 and 90 minutes. When you schedule, ask about the fee schedule to see what fits into your budget.
Post-Partum Massage
Massage can be very valuable in the recovery of a birthing event. Your muscles can be restored to a healthier, more normal status through therapeutic massage.
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