Prenatal Massage – A Treat During Pregnancy

Discover the benefits of prenatal massage

Any person who has benefited from a professional massage knows that it is a healthy way to reduce stress and ensure general well-being.

The same applies to prenatal massage, with the mention that it provides a much more intensely enjoyable sensation, taking into consideration the pregnant woman’s weight gain, changes in posture, and muscular and joint pains experienced during pregnancy.

It is very important that prenatal massage be performed by a certified therapist in this practice.

The role and importance of prenatal massage

Prenatal massage plays a significant role during pregnancy due to the benefits it offers, including:

– Reducing anxiety and alleviating symptoms of depression that may occur during pregnancy. Massage increases serotonin, dopamine, and endorphin levels, allowing the pregnant woman to enjoy better sleep.
– Improving lymphatic circulation, which greatly contributes to reducing edema, especially in the second half of pregnancy.
– Reducing the stress exerted on the joints by the body weight.
– Alleviating muscular pains caused by postural changes.
– Enhancing arterial circulation and relieving muscle cramps.

Recommendations for a safe and beneficial prenatal massage

The recommended position for performing the massage is the Side-Lying position, where the pregnant woman lies on one side.

It is safest to have the massage after the first trimester of pregnancy, with prior approval from the doctor.

I would like to mention that there is no risk of losing the pregnancy, but certain reflex zones should be avoided during the massage, such as the area around the ankle and heel, which are associated with the pelvic region. It is also recommended to avoid massaging the abdomen and applying pressure to the lower back.

In the second half of pregnancy, it is not advisable for the pregnant woman to lie on her back because the weight of the baby and uterus can compress the blood vessels, reducing circulation to the placenta.

Pregnant women should not expect deep massage on the lower limbs as they may have blood clotting issues, and there is a risk of dislodging blood clots through massage.

During this period of pregnancy, medium pressure is the most suitable for the massage.

Prenatal massage and partner involvement

A weekly massage performed by a professional can be complemented successfully with a massage offered by the partner, following these instructions:

– Massage the soles of the feet using cream and perform circular motions from the heel to the ankles and around the ankles, avoiding pressure points.
– Massage the back using gliding movements along the spine and in the shoulder area.
– Hand massage is very pleasant in the second half of pregnancy when the hands start to swell.
– Scalp massage is performed with both hands and spread-out fingers, using circular motions that have a deeply relaxing effect.
– It is important to avoid the abdominal area.

A wonderful choice for prenatal care

Massage therapy practiced during pregnancy is a wonderful complementary choice for prenatal care.”