Prenatal Massage and Postnatal Massage
Pregnancy Massage can be enormously beneficial, not only for the Mother but also for the unborn baby. It emotionally and physiologically supports the mother during a time when her body is undergoing many changes and can help prepare her body for birth.
Prenatal massage is safe from 12th week, until the end of pregnancy. After pregnancy new mums can benefit from postnatal massage.
Postnatal Massage can be as important as massage during pregnancy. Although it may be the last thing on the new mum's mind it can be one of the best things she does for her self. Giving birth can put a lot of strain on the abdomen, hips, and back. Abdominal massage may help to improve muscle tone, speed up shrinking of the uterus and break up subcutaneous scar tissue. Overall body massage and manipulation may help to relax and stimulate tired muscles, prevent muscle spasms and cramps, speed up recovery and improve body posture.
Another great benefit of postnatal massage is regulating hormones which can cause postpartum baby blues and depression.
For nursing mothers, I recommend gentle breast massage to help open up the milk ducts in case they are becoming blocked, to avoid pain and possibly developing mastitis. This might also improve skin tone and reduce or avoid stretch marks.
The right time for the first massage after pregnancy may vary for each person. It can be as soon as 24 hours after baby delivery to a few days or weeks. I recommend getting approval from the GP.
'I have just had my first pregnancy massage from Natalia. I was impressed at how thorough she was with her consultation, ensuring that the massage would be safe for both myself and the baby. The massage was incredibly relaxing and I felt refreshed and really good the next day. Thank you.'
How massage may help during the pregnancy
Certain massage techniques will stimulate blood circulation and this will distribute essential nutrients to all the vital organs of the body, which will feed and aid the development of the baby.
Lymphatic drainage can help to eliminate toxins from the cells and blood and help to prevent or reduce oedema, which can be contributory to carpal tunnel and tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Sluggish bowel movement is aided, helping to avoid constipation and haemorrhoids.
Massage can help to release compression on the nerves caused by muscle tension or oedema.
Massage releases muscular tension of the upper back, shoulders, lower back and hips easing the discomfort of sciatica, prolapsed disc and Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD), often caused by postural change and hormone release.
Massage might help to avoid varicose veins from developing. Specific massage of the muscles in between the ribs and top chest muscles may help the respiratory system and aid breathing during the pregnancy and birth.
Massage induces deep relaxation and peaceful sleep. It is reported that women who sleep well during the last month of pregnancy have shorter labours.
Massage can help to keep blood pressure in balance and improve hormonal balance.
Massage may encourage the release of oxytocin. This is a pain-reducing hormone providing vital relief of pain during labour and birth.
A stress-free environment is created, in combination with your healthy diet and lifestyle, in which the baby can peacefully and lovingly grow.
If you are experiencing any complications or are unsure if massage is right for you, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Massage Treatment - What to expect
For the best comfort, safety and support I treat expecting mums on the massage table lying on their side. Support pillows are placed in between the legs, under baby bump and under the head. This is the best way to take the pressure off the hips and back and improve blood circulation. Sometimes sideways positioning may be uncomfortable and in these cases, I will treat the back area while the mum is sitting on a comfortable chair resting against massage bed. Head, face, neck, shoulders and limbs can be treated while the mum is laying on her back on the elevated massage bed with some cushions to support her body.
I use towels and a blanket if required and only the area being treated at the time is uncovered. Massage can last for 60 or 90 minutes and include full body. I like to finish massage treatment with a relaxing 7-10 minute face treatment. At this time expecting mums are laying on their back.
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'I thoroughly enjoyed my first prenatal massage with Natalia recently. She took her time and I didn't felt rushed which was nice. The treatment was just what I needed and hope to book in for another treamtent before my baby arrives. Natalia gave me lots of advice too.'