Pregnancy is an exciting time, and you shouldn’t have to suffer through all the aches and pains without a little help. Massage therapy can reduce anxiety and depression in pregnant women, relieve joint pain and muscle aches and even improve labor. Massage therapy can also boost immunity, to help you and your baby stay healthy.
A foot massage during pregnancy is a great way to reduce swelling in joints from that extra little family member you’re carrying around. There’s a lot of conflicting information about pregnancy and foot massage out there, but most professionals will recommend a foot massage during pregnancy as long it’s done by a certified massage therapist. Whether or not acupressure points in the foot an affect labor, a trained massage therapist knows exactly how to keep you safe during your massage.
Hot stone treatment can also be a great relief for pregnant women experiencing aches or tension from their pregnancy. Hotstones are placed at acupressure points on the body and gently relax muscles and relieve tension. After a certain point, it may no longer be safe to receive treatments lying on your stomach, but the abdomen can usually be treated until birth.
Massage chairs and pregnancy also tend to worry expectant mothers, but massage chairs increase upper body circulation and reduce aches and pains. The baby is protected from vibrations in the amniotic sac. Even so, it’s important to use massage chairs in moderation, and women with larger bellies should make sure not to sit in a way that puts pressure on the baby.
The pregnant body is a complex thing, so regardless of the massage you want, make sure the massage therapist you chose is trained in prenatal massage, and consult your doctor if you have any concerns. Don’t worry, as long as they give you the green light, there’s no reason not to treat yourself to a nice massage! More can be found here: www.healthheaven.com.au
