Pregnancy/ Prenatal Massage
Pregnancy/Prenatal massage techniques combined with pregnancy cushions and bolsters to nurture and relax the mother-to-be are the method of treatment. Attention to leg areas and shoulders to relieve any strain or discomfort due to body changes.
The benefits of prenatal
massage or massage during pregnancy:
Studies indicate that massage therapy performed during pregnancy can reduce
anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle aches and joint
pains, and improve labor outcomes and newborn health.
Massage therapy addresses different needs through varying techniques, one of which is called Swedish Massage, which aims to relax muscle tension and improve lymphatic and blood circulation through mild pressure applied to the muscle groups of the body. Swedish Massage is the recommended prenatal massage method during pregnancy because it addresses many common discomforts associated with the skeletal and circulatory changes brought on by hormone shifts during pregnancy.
Hormone regulation
Studies done in the past 10 years have shown that hormone levels associated
with relaxation and stress are significantly altered, leading to mood regulation
and improved cardiovascular health, when massage therapy was introduced
to women’s prenatal care. Hormones such as norepinephrine and cortisol
(“stress hormones”) were reduced and dopamine and serotonin levels
(low levels of these hormones are associated with depression) were increased
in women who received bi-weekly massages for only five weeks. These changes
in hormone levels also led to fewer complications during birth and fewer
instances of newborn complications, such as low birth weight. The evidence
points strongly to maternal and newborn health benefits when relaxing, therapeutic
massage is incorporated into regular prenatal care.
Reduction of swelling
Edema, or swelling of the joints during pregnancy, is often caused by reduced
circulation and increased pressure on the major blood vessels by the heavy
uterus. Massage helps to stimulate soft tissues to reduce collection of
fluids in swollen joints, which also improves the removal of tissue waste,
carried by the body’s lymph system. Lymphatic
drainage techniques (LDT) will focus on edema release and improve the
lymphatic flow.
Improvement of nerve pain
Sciatic nerve pain is experienced by many women in late pregnancy as the
uterus rests on muscles of the pelvic floor and lower back. The pressure
of the uterus spreads tension to the muscles of the upper and lower leg,
causing them to swell and put pressure on nearby nerves. Massage therapy
addresses the inflamed nerves by helping to release the tension on nearby
muscles in the lumbar area as well as the gluteal area. Many women have
experienced significant reduction in sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy
through regular massage.
What precautions should be
taken when seeking pregnancy massage?
As with any therapeutic approach to pregnancy wellness, women should discuss
massage with their OBGYN care provider. The best way to address the risks
of pregnancy massage is to be informed and to work together with knowledgeable
professionals.
Massage is beneficial for almost everyone. Even women carrying multiples babies can benefit greatly from massage. There may be certain conditions that may or may not be related to the pregnancy that would preclude massage or certain types of massage. This may include women at risk for preterm labor, women with blood clots or clotting disorders, and other ailments. We recommend that you have a written notice from your doctor or midwife before receiving massage therapy during pregnancy. Massage done during the first trimester is generally up to the therapist, the woman and her practitioner. Massage has never been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage.
The room setting for a pregnancy massage is much like a typical massage, the room will have low lighting, the patient will lie on a warm extra padded table. Soft music will be in the background to help you relax and drift off. Some aromatherapy will occur due to some of the oils used, so be sure to tell your therapist if any of these disturb your senses. Sometimes there might be music or smells that don't quite agree with you and they can be easily changed. This is your massage experience and you should enjoy it.
Benefits of Pregnancy Massage include:
Tranquil relaxation and reduce stress
Relief from muscle cramps, spasms, and myofascial pain, especially
in the lower back, neck, hips, and legs
Increase in blood and lymph circulation, which can reduce swelling
Reduces stress on weight-bearing joints
Improves outcome of labor and eases labor pain
Enhances the pliability of skin and underlying tissues
Provides support for the new mother with physical and emotional strains
of mothering
Lymphatic
Drainage to areas of swelling.
Post Surgical Massage and
Medical Massage for C-section. Click
on sections to read more.
Lymphatic Breast Care Massage for engorgement issues due to breast feeding difficulties. It is a gentle relaxing technique that you will also learn to do for yourself.
Pediatric Post -pregnancy with baby massage available as well! You will learn how to massage your baby for relaxation, help with colic and digest issues, while bonding and creating a nurturing environment.
Great shower gift!!!!!! Gift Certificates available!!!
To schedule an appointment please call: 425-284-2120
Cash or check are accepted only, no Credit Cards
16 Central Way, Kirkland, WA 98033
425-284-2120 Office
206.755.4044 *Cell*
For more information regarding the services we provide
please email: info@xspaditions.com
GoStats web counter