Massage has been used for centuries to improve overall health, reduce stress and relieve aches and pains in the body. However, prenatal massage has had mixed publicity. There have been some that would advise against it for safety. But modern research has shown that prenatal massage therapy can be a positive and integral part of any woman’s prenatal care. That being said there are special considerations to get the most benefits while keeping massage safe while pregnant. So when you are looking for the best prenatal massage in SLC, consider the following information.
Benefits of Prenatal Massage
Massage in general aims to relax muscle tension and improve lymphatic and blood circulation. During pregnancy it can also improve sleep, reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve pain and discomfort in muscles and joints. It can also decrease pregnancy complications, shorten labor time and increase health in the newborn. A good prenatal massage will also help with the following:
- Hormone Regulation: Studies have shown massage significantly helps relax and relieve stress during pregnancy. This can lead to mood regulation and improved cardiovascular health. In these studies, pregnant women who received a massage every other week for 6 weeks showed a reduction in norepinephrine and cortisol (stress hormones), while dopamine and serotonin levels increased (low levels of these are associated with depression). Balance between these hormones can lead to fewer complications during birth. It can also lead to less newborn complications, including low birth weight.
- Less Swelling: The pregnancy swelling of joints caused by reduced circulation and increased pressure on major blood vessels by the uterus is called edema. Massage helps to stimulate movement or circulation of fluid through the body. This can help rid the collection of fluid in the swollen joints. It also helps improve the function of the lymphatic system.
- Nerve / Sciatic Pain Reduction: Because the uterus rests on the muscles of the pelvic floor and low back, pregnancy can cause sciatic pain. By relieving pressure on the surrounding muscles, massage can greatly reduce sciatic nerve pain experienced throughout pregnancy.
Prenatal Massage Precautions
There are considerations that should be made to keep prenatal massage safe. Many places will advise that side posture is the ONLY safe way to do prenatal massage. While side posture is okay, there are specialty orthopedic pregnancy supports that allow you to lay safely face down. With no pressure on the baby bump. Have the therapist walk you through the pillows until you feel comfortable with them.
While most massage programs offer a basic prenatal training, search out a therapist with experience and extra training in prenatal care. They know how to address the changing needs of the pregnant woman and look for contraindications to the massage.
There are also pregnancies that we would not advise doing a prenatal massage during. If you have a high risk pregnancy, a therapist may request a doctors note saying that the massage is safe for you. These may include women who have been experiencing bleeding, pre-term contractions, hypertension, pre-eclampsia, previous pre-term labor, sever swelling, triplets or more or a history of miscarriage.
Prenatal massage done by a trained professional is safe throughout all stages of pregnancy. If they tell you that it is not safe during the first trimester, chances are they do not have extra training in prenatal massage. Getting a massage during the first trimester from an inexperienced therapist is not recommended. Ask your therapist about the risks involved and make sure you are comfortable before your massage begins.
Prenatal Massage In Salt Lake City
Massage throughout pregnancy has many benefits and can make a great impact on many pregnant women. Incorporating massage into your prenatal care can be a great emotional and physical boost towards a healthy and complication free pregnancy. It is recommended you receive massage on the same timeline as your visits to the doctor. Once a month for the first 27 weeks, every other week until 36 weeks and then weekly until you give birth.
If you are looking for prenatal massage in SLC, visit the trained therapists at Maternal Massage. Along with extra training and the specialized supports, our therapists SPECIALIZE in prenatal massage. It isn’t something we just offer occasionally. We do this all day every day and “offer” regular massage. Come to the experts and we will walk you through the process and ensure you feel comfortable before delivering the best prenatal massage in Salt Lake City.
Call us at 385-351-5626 or click here to book online.