Labor and delivery is a crowning moment in every Mother’s life. For nine months many physical and emotional changes occur. This leads to much anxiety and anticipation surrounding the upcoming due date. Every pregnancy is different; however, Massage Therapy is a natural and universal way to facilitate a smooth delivery. Read on to learn about prenatal massage and labor.
Prenatal Massage And Labor
Our body is a complex system, relying on every counter-part to function to its full capability. There is no arguing that pregnancy is the greatest physical change women experience. During pregnancy, a hormone called relaxin causes ligaments to loosen and bones to move. This puts a lot of strain on the pelvic muscles, leading to low back pain. Proper posture feels near impossible. However, massage can help re-establish good postural habits during and after pregnancy. Studies have also shown that receiving massages often can reduce stress, anxiety and depression, as well as ease muscle tension, reduce swelling, and increase circulation. Moms who get massaged often get better sleep and have more flexibility within their joints.Through releasing of tight muscles, the body can begin to re-align itself. The more aligned we are, the easier it is for our bodies to handle trauma.
According to americanpregnancy.org, women who received bi-weekly massages for only five weeks, found that their cortisol levels were reduced while dopamine and serotonin levels were increased. Cortisol is the hormone associated with stress while low levels of dopamine and serotonin are linked to depression. A balance of these hormones led to fewer complications during labor.
Not only is massage a tool woman are using to reduce depression and anxiety, but they are using it to build mental endurance in preparation for the marathon that is birth. One of the primary goals of prenatal massage is to instill confidence in the Woman; A deep and abiding trust that she can depend on her body to do what it was created to do. This builds a bridge between the mind and the body. This very mind-body connection is what sets the pace for a shorter labor and delivery.
Massage And Labor Pains
Okay, but what about the pain? According to an article written by Tiffany Field on Pregnancy, labor and massage, women who received massage therapy experienced significantly less pain. Their labors were on average 3 hours shorter with less need for medication. In this same article, we learn that the baby receives some of the effects of massage. They showed a decreased rate of excessive fetal movement as well as lower incidences of pre-maturity and low birth weight.
Maternal Massage has a team of licensed massage therapists with extra training in prenatal massage. We have orthopedic supports designed specifically to ensure the safety of each mom-to-be. Massages should coincide with your prenatal doctor visits. Meaning that you receive massage once monthly until 27 weeks, bimonthly until 36 weeks, and finishing with weekly massages until you give birth. This will make certain that the effects will last through labor.
Click here to book now or call us at 385-351-5626 to schedule today.