Home

bodywork life

Pregnancy Massage: Health and Well-Being for You and Your Baby

Massage is healthful and can be enjoyed during the entire course of your pregnancy-from conception
through delivery. Massage can help with many of the aches and pains you experience as your body
changes including: reduction of muscle cramps and painful trigger points; pain relief in the muscles and
joints of your legs, hips, mid-, lower- and upper back and shoulders; increases flexibility so your body
can comfortably adjust to its changing shape; easing of constipation, heartburn, gas and fluid retention;
slow the progress of varicose veins; and relieving of headaches.

During your massage, you will be comfortably supported with pillows or cushions. In later pregnancy,
you can experience a complete massage supported in a side-lying position. You will be covered with a
sheet everywhere except where you are being massaged. If your sense of smell is sensitive fragrance
free oil or lotion can be used and the covering or temperature of the room can be adjusted for your
comfort as well. It is fine to interrupt your massage when you need to use the restroom and if lying down
is not comfortable, you can remain seated for a relaxing partial massage.

Postnatal Massage: Recovery and beyond

In the postpartum period, it is as important to care for yourself as it is during your pregnancy. Massage
can help you handle the physical demands of caring for a newborn by reducing tension and increasing
energy. Furthermore, during pregnancy, your body endures immense changes which occur over many
months. After delivery however, those changes are reversed within weeks requiring the muscles,
ligaments and bones to realign themselves toward per-pregnancy posture. Postnatal massage is a
great way to assist and hasten the restorative process through stretching, neuromuscular therapy, and
facial work.

Pregnancy Massage: Before
& After Baby