Pregnancy can be so uncomfortable! Time for a massage — but will any old massage do? No. We don’t recommend getting a regular massage during pregnancy. Here are 5 ways a prenatal massage should be different.
When you’re expecting a baby you’re likely to feel all kinds of aches and pains. The added weight you’re carrying, along with the way it’s centered in the front of your body, can cause changes in your posture and gait as your body tries to compensate for your changing center of gravity. But as the uterus expands, the baby grows and your hormone levels shift, it’s more than just backache that can ensue. There are several ways in which a real prenatal massage is different than the average relaxation massage you receive at a typical day spa. These differences become more important and more pronounced as your pregnancy progresses — with more adjustments made in your second and third trimester vs. in your first trimester.
5 Was Prenatal Massage Should Be Different
- Training. Any massage therapists that you receive treatment from should have extra training in prenatal massage. Most therapists will receive a very basic training for pregnancy massage during school. It is important to go to a therapist with extra training in order to stay safe and get the most benefits from the massage.
- Positioning. The most important difference in prenatal massage and regular massage is positioning. Obviously there are issues with laying on the stomach when pregnant. Most spas will have you in a side posture to work on your back and legs. This works, but isn’t the best option. At Maternal Massage we use specific orthopedic pregnancy massage pillows that allow you to lay face down safely throughout your pregnancy. There are other considerations and support systems used throughout your massage session that keeps both mom and baby safe as well as allows for maximum benefits.
- Focus. Any massage should be tailored to the client on the table. There are specific focus areas that a pregnant woman will usually need work on. This can include but not be limed to hips, glutes, low back and hip flexors.
- Trimester Changes. A therapist that has extra training in prenatal massage will understand what changes are happening in your body throughout the different stages of your pregnancy. Special considerations will need to be made throughout.
- Recommended treatment plan. Massage is beneficial throughout any stage of pregnancy. To get the best results, we do recommend following a specific treatment plan that will carry you through all three trimesters and into post-natal or postpartum massage.
Can Prenatal Massage Help You?
The goal with any prenatal massage is to relieve pregnancy related pains,relax the mother to be and keep both mom and baby safe. In order to accomplish this, talk freely with your therapist. Make sure they know about any sore spots, complications, risks, or discomfort you may experience. Be specific and don’t be afraid to speak up throughout your massage if you are uncomfortable or need the focus in a different area.
Maternal Massage has a team of licensed massage therapists with extra training in prenatal massage. We have orthopedic supports designed specifically to ensure safety during prenatal massage. With our knowledge, training and true desire to ease pregnancy pain, we know we can help you enjoy each stage of your pregnancy. Click here to book now or call us at 385-351-5626 to schedule today.