Massage

the Babble Staff

When pregnant, a woman is probably more in need of massage than ever before. However, not all massages are appropriate. Experts say there are many specifics to consider, including positioning and which parts of the body can be safely manipulated. Women at risk for complications such as blood clots or preterm labor might not be able to get massages at all. Laura Davis, a nurse and pregnancy massage therapist cited on About.com, recommends that you ensure your massage therapist is certified to work with pregnant women. That said, pregnancy massage can aid in correcting out-of-whack posture, re-aligning your pelvis and easing pregnancy-related ailments such as sore muscles and aching ligaments. A good professional massage can also enhance circulation and lymphatic drainage, which serves to reduce swelling and water retention. One massage therapist likens massaging pregnant women to massaging athletes in training: preparing and coaching for birth can be an important part of pregnancy massage, and if your partner or birth attendant is trained in massage techniques, this can be a great stress- and pain-reliever during labor.

"Most people enjoy human touch. A touch can convey comfort, love, awareness and many other sensations. It can also help alleviate aches and pains. All of these are of benefit, especially when you are pregnant. When looking for a pregnancy or postpartum massage therapist, make sure the therapist is certified in pregnancy massage." ...read the full article

"Prenatal massage shares many of the goals of regular massage — to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and mobility, and just make you feel good. But it's also tailored specifically to the needs of pregnant women and their changing bodies, and therapists who are trained in prenatal massage adjust their techniques accordingly." ...read the full article

"Massage during pregnancy is therapeutic bodywork which focuses on the special needs of the mother-to-be as her body goes through the dramatic changes of the childbirth experience. Massage therapy enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue." ...read the full article

"Massage. Even the word sounds relaxing, bringing to mind scented oils, quiet music, soft lighting, and a firm touch kneading the tension out of the body as the stress melts out of your system. Massage therapy does more than relax, however. It loosens tight muscles, increases blood flow, and helps flush out toxins. It revitalizes the mind and body, improves posture, and facilitates a feeling of well-being" ...read the full article

"Massage. Even the word sounds relaxing, bringing to mind scented oils, quiet music, soft lighting, and a firm touch kneading the tension out of the body as the stress melts out of your system. Massage therapy does more than relax, however. It loosens tight muscles, increases blood flow, and helps flush out toxins. It revitalizes the mind and body, improves posture, and facilitates a feeling of well-being." ...read the full article