The Benefits of Prenatal Massage Therapy ~ Pregnancy Massage
Therapeutic massage has been used for centuries to improve overall health, reduce stress and relieve muscle tension. Research shows that prenatal massage therapy can help reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle and joint pain, and improve labour outcomes and newborn health. Prenatal massage therapy addresses different needs through different techniques, one of which is called Swedish massage.
Swedish massage aims to relax muscle tension and improve lymphatic and blood circulation by applying gentle pressure to the muscle groups of the body. Swedish massage is the recommended method of massage during pregnancy as it addresses many of the common ailments associated with the skeletal and circulatory changes brought about by hormonal changes.
A distinction should be made between therapeutic antenatal massage and perineal massage, the latter referring to the practice of manually stretching the tissues surrounding the birth canal to reduce the risk of episiotomy or trauma associated with childbirth.
Hormone regulation
Studies conducted over the past 10 years have shown that when massage therapy is introduced into a woman’s prenatal care, hormone levels associated with relaxation and stress are significantly altered. This leads to mood regulation and improved cardiovascular health.
In women who received fortnightly massages for just five weeks, hormones such as norepinephrine and cortisol (hormones associated with stress) were reduced, and dopamine and serotonin levels were increased (low levels of these hormones are associated with depression).
These changes in hormone levels also led to fewer complications during childbirth and fewer cases of newborn complications, such as low birth weight. The evidence strongly suggests that there are health benefits for both mother and baby when therapeutic massage is included in regular antenatal care.
Reducing Oedema
Oedema, or swelling of the joints during pregnancy, is often caused by reduced circulation and increased pressure on the large blood vessels from the heavy uterus. Massage helps to stimulate the soft tissues to reduce the accumulation of fluid in swollen joints. This also improves the removal of tissue waste carried away by the body’s lymphatic system.
Many women experience sciatic nerve pain in late pregnancy because the uterus rests on the muscles of the pelvic floor and lower back. The pressure of the uterus spreads tension to the muscles of the thigh and lower leg, causing them to swell and put pressure on nearby nerves.
Massage therapy addresses the inflamed nerves by helping to release the tension in the surrounding muscles. Many women have experienced a significant reduction in sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy with massage.
Other potential benefits of antenatal massage include
Reduced back pain
Reduced joint pain
Improved circulation
Reduced oedema
Reduced muscle tension and headaches
Reduced stress and anxiety
Improved oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles
Improved sleep
Precautions for prenatal massage?
As with any therapeutic approach to wellbeing during pregnancy, women should discuss massage with their antenatal care provider. The best way to manage the risks of prenatal massage is to be informed and to work with knowledgeable professionals.
Many professionals believe that the best position for a pregnant woman to receive massage is on her side. Tables that provide a hole for the uterus to fit into may not be reliable and may still put pressure on the abdomen or allow the abdomen to dangle, causing uncomfortable stretching of the uterine ligaments. Before your first appointment, ask your massage therapist how they position their clients during the massage.
Seek an appropriate massage therapist
It is important to seek the care of a certified antenatal massage therapist. Certified therapists have received training that goes beyond national standards for massage therapists and know how to address the specific needs of pregnancy and massage.
They know how to position you safely and avoid straining the ligaments of the uterus. They are also able to look out for symptoms of blood clots and varicose veins.
Women who have recently had bleeding or premature labour, or who have any of the following conditions, should speak to a health professional before receiving a massage;
High-risk pregnancy
Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH)
Pre-eclampsia
History of premature labour
History of severe swelling, high blood pressure or sudden, severe headaches
Recent childbirth
Is antenatal massage safe throughout pregnancy?
Women can start massage therapy at any time during their pregnancy – in their first, second or third trimester. Many facilities will refuse to offer massage to a woman in her first trimester because of the increased risk of miscarriage associated with the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Prenatal Massage as part of Prenatal Care
The benefits of massage can improve overall prenatal health for many pregnant women. Along with the guidance and advice of a prenatal care provider, massage therapy can be incorporated into routine prenatal care as an emotional and physical health supplement that has been shown to improve pregnancy outcomes and maternal health. Consult your midwife or obstetrician before starting any new therapeutic practice.
Other types of massage you may be interested in
- Customized Combination Massage
- Swedish Massage
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Lymphatic Drainage Massage
- Anti-Cellulite Massage
- Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage
- Aloe Vera Massage
- Coconut Oil Massage
- Thai & Yoga Massage
- Mnushi – Relaxation Practice
- REBOZO Massage
- Hot Stone Massage
- Sports Massage
- Shiatsu Massage
- Reflexology
- Pregnancy Massage
- Reiki Massage
- Unusual Massages