Benefit of Prenatal Massage Therapy: How It Can Support a Healthy Pregnancy

Pregnancy massage therapy is a powerful tool to help women have a healthy pregnancy and birth. The benefits include pain relief, improved sleep, decreased swelling, and emotional well-being. It is safe to have with a doctor’s clearance, and the right trained therapist can make it an enjoyable part of your pregnancy journey.

Prenatal Massage is generally done starting in the second trimester and can continue through all three trimesters. The main goals are to relieve back, hip, and leg pain; reduce stress, anxiety, and depression; improve edema (swelling); and support the function of the muscles, joints, and circulatory system.

The pressure of a regular massage may be too much for pregnant women, so prenatal massage is lighter and uses caution to avoid overstimulation. It is important to communicate with the therapist about how you are feeling, and if you want to stop at any point, it is fine. It is also helpful to drink water before and after your massage to stay hydrated.

Studies have shown that massage can decrease levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, and increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, which are mood-regulating hormones. These changes can lead to lower anxiety, improved mood, and a better immune system.

In addition to reducing stress, a regular prenatal massage can increase the elasticity of the perineum and lower the risk for tearing during childbirth. It can also help shorten labor and reduce the need for an episiotomy.

When you get a prenatal massage, the therapist will work to keep the pressure light and use special padding and bolsters to help you be comfortable. The therapist will also work to improve the flow of blood to your feet, hands, and legs, which can help with edema (swelling). However, it is important to note that this type of massage is not recommended for women who have certain complications, including deep vein thrombosis or varicose veins.

Prenatal massage is also beneficial to those experiencing sciatic nerve pain. Sciatica is triggered by tight muscles in the lower back and legs. It can be aggravated by standing for long periods of time, sitting all day at work, or even sneezing and coughing. Massage has been shown to decrease the frequency and intensity of sciatic nerve pain, resulting in lessening the need for medication.

A study has shown that women who receive massage regularly have better overall health than those who do not receive it. Those who received massage regularly had healthier weights, and their blood pressure was lower, too. They also had a lower rate of edema, and fewer instances of low back and neck pain, insomnia, fibromyalgia, and depression.

The benefits of a prenatal massage far outweigh any risks that might come with it. With the right training and a doctor’s clearance, this is one treatment that should be part of every expectant woman’s routine. If you are interested in having a pregnancy massage therapy in Atlanta visit https://www.atlantachiropractor.net/.