Prenatal and Pregnancy Massage 101: What you should know before getting one

The aches and pains brought by pregnancy are well worth it after seeing your new born child, but with today’s new innovations in physical and massage therapy, pregnant mothers no longer have to bear the physical downside of carrying a baby. Generally, pregnant women experience sore backs, swollen ankles, and morning sickness. Fortunately, many massage clinics in Tampa, Lutz, Carrolwood, and Wesley Chapel recognize the need for a specialized treatment for expectant mothers. Clinics now offer these massages that come in different variations, depending on where the mother is in her pregnancy. This trend all over the US is a probable answer to people’s higher value for a healthy life. Recent studies from the University of Georgia have encouraged prenatal or pregnancy massages because it has crucial benefits for the mother and the baby during the pregnancy and at childbirth. Pregnancy and prenatal massages provided by clinics all over Florida are now gaining more and more patrons because positive effects can be observed through the mother.

Dr. Tiffany Field of the University of Miami School of Medicine stated that the series of soothing touches experienced by the mother adds to her physical and emotional well-being since she is in the process of adapting to her new body image. Thus, pregnant women experienced less morning sickness and mood swings after undergoing such a therapy because it helped stabilize their hormone levels. Headaches are also less frequent and the usual soreness on their backs have died down.

But how is this special massage done exactly? Well, an initial requirement for anyone who wishes to get a massage during pregnancy, is clearance from their doctor, especially for high-risk pregnancies. Specific positions are only allowed for this therapy and certain areas are restricted to avoid any complications. Clinics who offer this service have specialized beds that can be adjusted to certain angles in to keep the woman more comfortable. Lying on her stomach is, of course, a no no. During a pregnancy massage, the mother could either be positioned sitting up, with her knees on the floor (support with cushion) and her chest and arms resting on a low bed. She could lie on her side with a few pillows supporting her hips and back. Again, it all depends on where she is in her pregnancy.

Special attention is given on her back, head, and feet because these are the common areas that experience pain and soreness. Some clinics couple this massage with aroma therapy, as long as it has a go signal from the doctor. Mild lotions and oils are also used for this treatment.

Mothers-to-be should take caution not to get this treatment if she has diabetes, or has experienced mild bleeding, abdominal pain, preeclampsia, fever, or unusual pain. Skin rashes, open sores, and varicose veins are also to be left alone during the massage.

Setting appointments for a prenatal or pregnancy massage sometimes has a prerequisite of a visit to your obstetrician for added precaution. This is because other symptoms of pregnancy like vomiting and nausea may be signs of complication and getting this treatment may worsen your condition. An important thing to remember is to not mistake this massage for reflexology or deep tissue massages. So make sure to know the services offered by the spa or clinic to avoid premature labor or any other accidents.

Check out other services offered by your nearest spa or clinic such as sports massage, Swedish massage, trigger point, hot stone massage, and geriatric massage. Call to set an appointment and feel the soothing relief of a good massage.

Tagged with: Before • Getting • know • Massage • Pregnancy • prenatal • Should

Filed under: Pregnancy Mood Swings

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!