Oct 23, 20214 min read

What Is Prenatal Massage Therapy - Benefits, Precautions And Sideffects?

Updated: Dec 16, 2021

Pregnancy massage is actually a type of bodywork that facilitates the functions of the lymphatic system and boosts your immunity.

This form of treatment is believed to help pregnant women cope with stress, boost their overall wellbeing, keep skin soft and smooth, and prepare for motherhood.

Prenatal massages are the perfect way to relax and enjoy pregnancy. They're adapted for all of your changing anatomies, so you can get a traditional massage that'll work wonders on those sore muscles or just take time out during mom's day off from working hard at home with kids!

The best part about prenatal massages is how they relieve stress as well as tension - which often occurs when people feel their jobs aren't appreciated because they cannot do them full-time any longer due to having additional responsibilities such as taking care of the pregnant spousal unit.

Is It Safe For Pregnant Women To Get Massages?

Pregnancy is a beautiful time in a woman's life. Most women look forward to the time when they will be expecting their baby and enjoy all of the pleasures that go along with it, such as shopping for baby items and attending prenatal classes.

In addition to this excitement, there are often pregnancies that can lead to stress, pain, or other discomfort.

This is where massages come into play. Prenatal massages have been proven helpful for mommies-to-be who suffer from back pain, muscle spasms, swelling during pregnancy, and even morning sickness relief.

Prenatal massages are generally considered safe after the first trimester, as long as you get approval from your practitioner and let them know that you’re pregnant.

But it's best to avoid having one during this time because they may make some people sick with their nauseating effects on an already weakened immune system of ours!

Massage Therapy During Pregnancy May Relieve: Back Pain Swelling Muscle Aches Sleeplessness Stress Morning Sickness.

Benefits Of Prenatal Massage.

Stress can cause a whole host of health problems, not just during pregnancy. What this means for your massages is that you really can't afford to skimp on them if you expect to have a healthy baby and avoid the effects stress has on pregnancies.

There are many Benefits of Prenatal Massage Therapy -

Studies have shown that massage increases levels of oxytocin in mothers - this hormone helps reduce stress hormones and induces relaxation.
During pregnancy, a woman's uterus will grow from 2 ounces to 1½ pounds by birth. Such an increase can cause lower back pain and muscle stiffness in the legs and pelvic muscles. A prenatal massage can help ease those aches and pains.
A pregnant woman's skin is susceptible to stretch marks. Massaging or moisturizing your skin is the best way to prevent them.
Prenatal massages help reduce swelling of legs, ankles, and feet by stimulating blood flow.
A massage can help regulate changes in the digestive system by smoothing out constipation.
Prenatal massages are great for mom's mental health, too. They help relieve stress and reduce anxiety by releasing mood-boosting hormones.

Precautions

Prenatal massages are generally safe, but you should avoid being massaged in the following conditions:

When the uterus is larger than it should be
When she's experiencing spotting
During labor and for two weeks after giving birth.
Prenatal Massage Benefits are great for both baby and mom, so it's recommended that pregnant women get regular massages.
It's best if you can get your massages every two weeks in the beginning and then once a month until you give birth.
With just a few precautions, massages are great for both mommies-to-be and their unborn babies!
The first trimester is the time when most women lose their appetites. This can be frustrating because it seems like you're constantly nauseous or there's nothing on your body that feels better than sleeping on an ice block.

Side Effects

All of the following side effects are only temporary and will be out of your system within a few days.

If you experience any of these, don't panic! They're actually signs that your body is adjusting to the changes that come with massage therapy and pregnancy:

Nausea (can last up to an hour or more post-massage).
Fatigue (this may last for several days after receiving a massage).
Headaches (usually dissipate within about an hour of your massage session).
Dizziness (while this may occur for some, others don't experience any side effects at all)
Skin discoloration.
The feeling of being out of touch with reality or your surroundings (called 'dissociation').

You should tell your masseuse if you've had any of these and they'll know how to proceed with your massage session.

Conclusion.

Prenatal massages are great ways to soothe aches, pains, and sleepless nights during your pregnancy. They can help you sleep better, ease back pain, reduce stress, and improve circulation.

Before commencing a massage session while pregnant, always clear it with your doctor first.

Remember that these side effects do not last long - they're just temporary signs that your body is adapting to the changes that come with being pregnant.

So, if you want to have a baby that's as healthy as possible and keep yourself calm and relaxed throughout your pregnancy without worrying about any potential negative side effects of prenatal massage therapy such as morning sickness or fatigue (it happens!), then go ahead and an appointment at your local spa or wellness center.

You'll be happy you did!

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