Pregnancy Massage
Prenatal or Pregnancy Massage refers to specific
massage techniques that help reduce pregnancy
discomforts and enhance the physiological and
emotional state of both mother and fetus. Pregnancy
can cause great stress on a mothers mind and body. Any
woman who has been pregnant can attest to the fact
that her body goes through a tremendous change. These
changes can be both physical and mental.

Prenatal Massage has been known to help eleviate many
of the aches and pains associated with all stages of
pregnancy. Sciatica, swelling, back and neck pain and
even upset stomach can be calmed with massage.
Prenatal massage has also been know to assist with
circulation, which helps by stretching the muscles and
joints to their full range of motion.

Many women also suffer from stretch marks. Prenatal
massage can improve the skins elasticity and overall
body tone; therefore allowing the skin to rejuvinate
as the body does. Studies have also shown that women
who regularly receive Prenatal Massage have lower
stess levels which in turn have a calming effect on
the fetus.

LABOR MASSAGE
Massage has been known to create a more restful place
for the laboring mother to be. There are several
positions a mother can choose for Labor Massage. Many
women will choose to lay on their side or in reclined
positions. Pregnancy pillows can also be used while a
woman lays on her stomach to receive her massage. If a
woman is experiencing back labor, these positions of
comfort and massage will help to eleviate some of the
stress and pain associated with labor, therefore,
helping to calm the mother. Soft music in the
background during massage is also requested from many
mothers to be. The music can be useful in setting a
peaceful place for both mother and baby.

POST-PREGNANCY MASSAGE
The postpartum period in a woman's body can still
benefit greatly from massage. With specialized
techniques a Post-pregnancy massage can improve the
muscle tone and elasticity of the mother's skin. By
rebalancing the skins elasticity the skin can more
quickly return to it's pre-pregnancy state.

Postpartum depression affects many women. Massage has
been known to help with the physiological changes in a
woman's body chemistry. The relaxing technique of
postpartum massage can help ease the mothers
depression and encourage bonding with her new baby.

In all cases, a pregnant or post-pregnant woman should
always consult her physician before locating a massage
therapist. Many times your doctor may have massage
therapists that he or she may refer you to. If your
doctor does not have referrals, make sure any
therapist that you may seek out has specialized
training in prenatal massage therapy.

Massage Techniques

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