Pregnancy is an incredibly exciting and transformative journey for both mother and child, but it is also a time of physical discomfort. Adding massage to an overall wellness regimen can help alleviate these discomforts and make the experience of pregnancy more enjoyable and productive for expecting moms.
During this wonderful period of change, many women are experiencing pain in the lower back, feet, neck, or hips, as well as muscle tightness and stress. These discomforts are common during pregnancy, and can be caused by the shift in center of gravity, the relaxation of ligaments, and the weight gain that comes with carrying a baby.
These uncomfortable symptoms can have a negative impact on an expectant woman’s quality of life, and can lead to feelings of anxiety and fatigue. This is why it is so important for expectant mothers to take the time to care for themselves and prioritize self-care throughout their pregnancy, which includes regular massage therapy.
In addition to addressing musculoskeletal discomforts, prenatal massage also addresses emotional and spiritual well-being, enhancing the overall pregnancy experience and preparing the body for childbirth and motherhood. As part of a holistic approach to wellness, massage therapy promotes increased circulation, stress reduction, and better sleep.
A licensed massage therapist who specializes in prenatal Massage will modify their techniques based on the client’s gestational age and any medical or health-related issues that may arise during her session. Prenatal massage is typically conducted while the client is fully draped and supported by a soft, comfortable body pillow for maximum comfort. In general, light-to-medium pressure is used to ensure the safety and comfort of the expectant mother. Techniques such as deep tissue or trigger point work are generally avoided, as well as any acupressure points or reflexology areas that may be considered to be potentially stimulating for the fetus.
During the session, the client is encouraged to breathe deeply and relax as much as possible, which in turn helps her release tension from the muscles and joints of the body. As she relaxes, the blood flow is enhanced, which reduces edema (swelling) in the hands and feet, often a symptom of pregnancy. Moreover, the kneading and compression of the deeper hip rotator muscles such as the piriformis can help alleviate the syndrome that causes sciatica in many pregnant women.
Finally, the use of certain essential oils can also help reduce swelling by improving the flow of lymph, as well as helping to relieve heaviness in the arms and legs. The most commonly recommended essential oils for prenatal massage include lavender, chamomile, ylang-ylang, and mandarin. In addition to being calming and soothing, these essential oils are safe for both the mother and the fetus. However, it is always a good idea to consult with a knowledgeable licensed massage therapist and healthcare provider before deciding which essential oil to use during prenatal Massage, as some oils can have contraindicated properties for pregnancy due to their potential to affect hormonal balance or induce uterine stimulation. If you need a Atlanta prenatal massage therapy visit https://www.atlantachiropractor.net/.