Pregnacy Massage - Pre and Post Natal Massage

Pregnancy massage is a form of bodywork designed specifically for pregnant women. Pregnancy causes a woman’s body to undergo remarkable changes in a matter of a few months. She will endure tremendous stress due to the dramatic physical, mental, and emotional changes she will undergo throughout her pregnancy.

The goal of pregnancy massage is to minimize the stress and muscle tension brought on by these changes and to promote relaxation. Using various techniques specifically for the new mother, pregnancy massage helps alleviate discomforts experienced throughout the pregnancy.

The benefits of an expectant mother receiving regular massage throughout her pregnancy are profound; they include but are not limited to:

• Reducing swelling in the hands, ankles and feet.

• Lessening sciatic pain.

• Easing muscular discomfort in specific areas such as the neck, lower back and lower legs.

• Helping with tension and tightening that can be felt throughout the entire body.

• Increasing circulation of the blood and lymph which can help to eliminate toxins in the body and can ease fatigue.

• Helping to relieve anxiety and depression.

• Providing emotional support.

• Easing the stress mothers feel before and after the birth of their baby.

• The reduction of joint pain due to extra weight and postural imbalance.

• Helping improve breathing and relaxation.

• To provide relief from uncomfortable digestive issues.

• Massage can also help with postpartum depression.

What to expect:

Pregnancy massage is preformed with the mother in a side-lying position; supported by pillows and typically lasts between 50 and 60 minutes. She will be draped and only the area being worked will be exposed. The massage can include anything from a full body Swedish Massage to light massage work that may include other modalities such as reflexology. The pressure used by the massage therapist is adjusted to the client’s comfort level.

Precautions:

During a woman's first trimester massage is contraindicated because of certain pressure points on the body that can cause a miscarriage during the early stages of pregnancy. This is an issue that is has been argued by some; stating that as long as you stay clear of these pressure points massage is fine. Although our therapists are fully qualified to perform massage in the first trimester; we do not want to take any unnecessary risks. This is why we do not recommend massage during the first trimester. If your pregnancy is considered "high risk" we also recommend consulting with your personal physician before receiving pregnancy massage.

During the second and third trimester's of pregnancy; massage is highly recommended and beneficial. We offer our pregnancy massage at what we believe is an exceptional rate ($50/ hr). We understand that expectant mother's are not only under the stresses of pregnancy; but they can also be under some degree of financial stress while preparing for the new family member.