Pregnancy is a stressful time, physically as well as emotionally. Your body undergoes some fundamental transformations including postural and hormonal changes, along with an increase in plasma and blood volume. Even your organs shift position as your pregnancy develops.
Chloe Goodman
Pregnancy Massage
Prenatal Massage has many benefits, not just for you but also
for your baby.
Together, these effects can put significant pressure on the body, particularly on the spine, neck and weight-bearing joints.
A growing body of research indicates that regular Prenatal Massage provides a safe, drug-free, relaxing way to minimise and relieve the common discomforts of a developing pregnancy.
There’s also increasing evidence that Pregnancy Massage can improve not only your own physical and mental wellbeing but also that of your baby.
Benefits to Pregnancy massage
- Relieve back, muscle and joint pain
- Sciatica
- Leg cramps
- Headaches
- Reduce swelling and water retension
- Relax mother and baby
FAQ
Is Pregnancy Massage Right for Me?
Prenatal Massage is both safe and beneficial for the majority of mothers-to-be. You can start after the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, up to and past your due date in healthy pregnancies.
There are some instances when massage may not be appropriate, particularly in a high-risk pregnancy or with certain health conditions (diabetes or morning sickness for example), so it is always advised to check with your doctor or midwife first or call Chloe to discuss.
What are the benefits of pregnancy massage?
Pregnancy massage has been found to relieve back, muscle and joint pain, sciatica, leg cramps, headaches and reduce swelling and stress. It is a popular alternative for pain relief, as medications are often limited.
How is pregnancy massage different to regular massage?
If you have had a massage before, then you know how great it feels but pregnancy massage is a little different. For example, the positioning during the massage is critical to the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Techniques are adjusted and changed to accommodate the pregnancy. The massage is always tailored to meet individual requirements.
What position will I be in during a massage?
The best position during massage is on your side with pillows for support, which provides the most stability for the baby and is also most comfortable for you.
Are there circumstances when massage during pregnancy isn’t advisable?
There are some instances when massage may not be appropriate, particularly if it is a high-risk pregnancy or you have certain health conditions this can be discussed with Chloe or it is always advisable to check with your doctor or midwife before having a massage.
Does my abdomen get massaged?
Chloe does not massage the abdomen during the treatment, pregnancy massage concentrates on the muscles of the body and ensuring relaxation, releasing tension in the muscles and ensuring this is carried out in a safe and comfortable positioning.
Which massage oils do you use?
Grape seed oil is one of the best oils to use during pregnancy, as it’s perfect for massage and yet doesn’t leave greasy or sticky residue.
Avoiding the use of essential oils during pregnancy is recommend. This is purely a precautionary measure, and is simply because you may not always know the chemical composition of the oils, or what effect – if any – they could have on a developing baby.
Are there any parts of my body that shouldn’t be massaged during pregnancy?
There are acupressure points on feet and hands that are known to stimulate contractions, but only if they are worked specifically and accurately. Gentle massage to assist with swelling or joint pain is safe for most women.