There are some precautions that therapists take with pregnant women, for instance there are pressure points which can cause contractions that your therapist will avoid if you are pregnant. Also, we avoid deep abdominal pressure during pregnancy. If you have any doubts about receiving a massage simply check with your doctor or midwife at your next prenatal appointment.
Generally, you should not receive massage if you currently have:
High Risk Pregnancy
Okay, so if massage is safe for you and you schedule your appointment what happens in the session? What do you do about your big belly?
Some massage therapists have wonderful special body cushions or tables that allow you to rest face down without putting pressure on your abdomen. If your therapist does not have this type of cushion she will have you lie on your side, draped under sheets and blankets for the massage. You will supported with pillows to ensure your comfort. Generally the therapist will perform a full body massage treatment for an hour long appointment unless you request otherwise. The therapist will focus on helping you relax and bringing relief from any discomfort or pain you may have been experiencing prior to your massage.
Finding a therapist thats right for you can take some time. Here are some questions you can ask when you are looking for a massage therapist:
Are you Nationally Certified?
Are you a member of a professional organization?
Where did you go to school? How many hours was your program?
Do you give pregnancy massages?
Did you receive training in pregnancy massage?
Do you require a doctors permission before performing pregnancy massage?
Then go and enjoy your massage and all the benefits of relaxation and pain relief that it brings you.
Pregnancy is one of the most uncomfortable times in the life of a woman. From the first trimester to the third, expectant mothers feel all kinds of aches and pains. As the stomach enlarges, a woman experiences backache, joint pains and it only gets worse as the pregnancy progresses. Add to this the stress brought about by the anxiety of labor and the act of giving birth, the worry about becoming a parent, the change of lifestyle and so on. As a relief, expectant mothers are suggested to get a pregnancy massage.
A pregnancy massage is different massage that one gets in a spa. The masseuse performing the massage will need to know special knowledge of the body as pregnant women are very sensitive. Also, masseurs will need to be careful when giving massages so as not to harm the baby. The intensity of the massage and the positioning of the mothers body are all important.
If you are on your first trimester, you can still go on a spa with some of your girlfriends. For those who are over four months pregnant, you will need to hire a professional pregnancy masseuse. These are well trained professionals who specialize with pregnancy and postpartum massages. Pregnancy massages can be prenatal, postnatal. It is even more important during labor as it can sometimes help in the smooth delivery process.
Pregnancy massage therapy is an alternative approach. Its therapeutic value lies with the fact that it enhances the function of the muscles and joints and improves the circulation of blood. It also relieves mental and physical fatigue.
Prenatal massage is focused on relieving the many discomforts brought about by the pregnancy. It enhances the physiological and emotional well-being of the mother, preparing her for her new role. Pregnancy Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Pregnancy Massage
