Pregnancy Massage

Good for:

Relaxation – helping both mother and baby
Alleviation of discomfort, e.g. back ache and swelling
De-stressing
Improve circulation of blood, lymph, oxygen and nutrients. This can also mean improved digestion, which can get sluggish during pregnancy.
Assist the respiratory system: Lung capacity decreases during pregnancy due to the growing uterus putting pressure on the diaphragm. Massaging the muscles involved in respiration such as the pectorals and intercostals can help, as well as the general relaxing effects of massage.
Symphysis pubis dysfunction (with doctor’s permission): Massage can help to alleviate back, hip and gluteal pain caused by the pelvis joints moving against each other due to ligaments becoming overly relaxed.

What Pregnancy Massage Involves

This is a very soothing and calm adaptation of massage techniques to suit the various stages of pregnancy after the first trimester. The mother lies on her side, supported by pillows, as this is a safe position. It is generally a relaxing massage, which can include back, legs and feet, arms and hands, neck and head. I do not normally do the abdomen as there is usually no need. Deep tissue techniques towards the end of a pregnancy can also be applied to areas of tension according to individual preference, although some areas are to be avoided.

Please note, I am required to ask that you obtain doctor’s permission before booking pregnancy massage or acupuncture.

Contraindications

Contraindications (when the treatment is not advised or when necessary to proceed with caution):

During the first trimester
Preeclampsia (partial failure of blood supply to the placenta)
Liver disorders
History of miscarriage – seek doctor’s permission
Heart conditions and circulatory issues such as varicose veins or signs of blood-clotting related issues such as venus thrombi
Diabetes – seek doctor’s permission

Pregnancy Massage

What Pregnancy Massage Involves

Contraindications

Subscribe