I wish I had known the benefits of pregnancy massage when I was pregnant with my son. Despite being a massage therapist, pregnancy massage was not covered in much detail when I was studying, and the common consensus seemed to be to avoid massage altogether in the first trimester. That really scared me off having massage while I was pregnant, but with the benefit of further specialised study I feel like I missed out on what could have been another wonderful experience.
During pregnancy your body goes through enormous changes and you’re emotionally and mentally preparing for birth and beyond too. If that’s not enough, rest and relaxation are sometimes hard to find as aches, pains and hormonal changes can affect sleep patterns.
Pregnancy massage can support you through the changes you experience in each trimester, including the first trimester.
Benefits include:
- Increased relaxation and reduced anxiety,
- Improved sleep patterns,
- Reduce oedema,
- Ease joint and muscular conditions,
- Ease neck, back and shoulder pain,
- A stabilising effect on hormonal changes and blood pressure,
- Improved body awareness and enhances the mother-baby connection.
I use a side lying position for most of my clients, particularly in their second and third trimester. With the use of pillows and bolsters this position is comfortable and supported, helps to maintain postural alignment of the spine and prevents adverse changes to blood pressure, unnecessary strain on ligaments and increased intrauterine pressure.
There are still instances where massage may not be appropriate and in pregnancies considered high risk, medical clearance is requested prior to any treatment. A thorough consult before each treatment also ensures any risks are identified and the appropriateness of massage is assessed.
If you would like to know more about Pregnancy Massage or have questions, head to my FAQ page here.
Insurance rebates are available for Remedial Pregnancy Massage treatments.
