Prenatal Massage
The benefits of massage during pregnancy or prenatal massage
Studies show 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. Because I am dedicated to making you feel your best, MASSAGE by Terrah Banakas is set up to provide you with the best massage during all phases of your pregnancy.
Massage therapy addresses different needs through varying techniques, one of which is 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.
A few benefits of prenatal massage inculde:
Hormone Regulation: In women who received bi-weekly massages for only five weeks, hormones such as norepinephrine and cortisol (“stress homrmones”) were reduced and dopamine and serotonin levels were increased. These hormones when low, are associated with depression. These changes in hormone levels have also led to fewer complications during birth and fewer instances of newborn complications.
Reduction of Swelling: Edema, or swelling of the joints during pregnancy, can be caused by reduced circulation and increased pressure on the 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.
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. Many women have experienced significant reduction in sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy through regular massage.
Other potential benefits of prenatal massage:
- Reduced back pain
- Reduced joint pain
- Improved circulation
- Reduced edema
- Reduced muscle tension and headaches
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles
- Better sleep
Is Prenatal Massage Safe?
Women can begin massage therapy at any point in their pregnancy – during the first, second, or third trimester.
Incorporating Massage Into Your Prenatal Care
The benefits of massage can improve overall prenatal health for many pregnant women. Along with the guidance and advice of a prenatal care provider, massage therapy can be incorporated into routine prenatal care as an emotional and physical health supplement proven to improve pregnancy outcome, and maternal health. Consult with your midwife or obstetrician before beginning any new therapeutic practice.
As with any therapeutic approach to pregnancy wellness, women should discuss massage with their prenatal care provider. The best way to address the risks of prenatal massage is to be informed and to work together with knowledgeable professionals.
If you’re pregnant, in Knoxville, Farragut (or surrounding areas) and are looking for a good soothing prenatal massage, contact MASSAGE by Terrah Banakas at 865-964-5215 or go ahead and schedule your appointment online.
Source: American Pregnancy Association