Pre-Natal & Post-Natal Massage

In addition to the fact that muscle work during pregnancy just plain feels good, there are many benefits for the mom-to-be and baby, too.  A study conducted by Dr. Tiffany Field at the University of Miami School of Medicine showed that treatments actually reduce stress hormones in the body.  Touch is vital to the mother’s physical and emotional well-being as she adapts to her new body image.  Regardless of individual circumstances, a pregnant woman’s body is challenged, changed and stressed in many ways.  Body work gives special attention to the mother-to-be, which in turn nurtures the new life that grows within her.

Special pregnancy body cushions allow the mother-to-be to experience back massage in the face-down position again – right up to full-term!   Pregnancy body work targets low back pain, hip pain and sciatica by releasing tight gluteal muscles, tendons and ligaments.  This relieves pain and improves blood flow to the lower extremities to resolve leg cramping, a common condition associated with pregnancy.  Body cushions also allow massage in the side-laying position which is particularly effective in the 2nd trimester utilizing specific stretches to mobilize the sacroiliac joints and expand the rib cage to accept the growing uterus. 

BENEFITS OF PRENATAL MASSAGE

  • Emotional support and nurturing touch
  • Relaxation and decreased insomnia
  • Stress relief on weight-bearing joints, such as ankles, lower back and pelvis
  • Neck and back pain relief caused by muscle imbalance and weakness
  • Assistance in maintaining proper posture
  • Preparing the muscles used during childbirth
  • Reduced swelling in hands and feet
  • Lessened sciatic pain
  • Fewer calf cramps
  • Headache and sinus congestion relief

SPECIALLY for Mother and Birthing Partner

Coming closer to your birth date, Therapist will spend time with both Mom and her birthing coach or partner, to discuss Natural Pain Relief Techniques during childbirth, using Acupressure and Massage.  

 

IS PREGNANCY MASSAGE FOR YOU?

Muscle manipulation during pregnancy is safe for most mothers.  Our therapist will need to know if you are having any problems or complications with your pregnancy before you begin.   If you are, then you will be required to get written approval from your primary health care provider before proceeding with any body work.  The following are circumstances in which treatment should not be performed: 

  • heavy discharge (watery or bloody)
  • diabetes
  • contagious illness
  • fever
  • vomiting
  • unusual pain
  • pre-eclampsia
  • high blood pressure
  • morning sickness
  • abdominal pain
  • diarrhea
  • any malignant condition

BENEFITS OF PRENATAL MASSAGE

  • Emotional support and nurturing touch
  • Relaxation and decreased insomnia
  • Stress relief on weight-bearing joints, such as ankles, lower back and pelvis
  • Neck and back pain relief caused by muscle imbalance and weakness
  • Assistance in maintaining proper posture
  • Preparing the muscles used during childbirth
  • Reduced swelling in hands and feet
  • Lessened sciatic pain
  • Fewer calf cramps
  • Headache and sinus congestion relief

SPECIALLY for Mother and Birthing Partner

Coming closer to your birth date, Therapist will spend time with both Mom and her birthing coach or partner, to discuss Natural Pain Relief Techniques during childbirth, using Acupressure and Massage.  

Benefits of Postnatal Massage:

  • Fatigue, exhaustion, Weakness
  • Low back pain
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Scar healing 
  • Headaches
  • Hand and wrist pain
  • Postural dysfunctions
  • Depression
  • Re-establishes pelvic alignment
  • Supports healthy lactation
  • Facilitates Mom and baby bonding
  • Reduces stress hormones

Postnatal massage is the best way to get postpartum care for yourself and your baby after birth.  As a new mother, you need to take care of yourself first so that you can take better care of your newborn. Postnatal massage can help you decrease the discomforts of afterbirth and help you relax and feel cared for. Massage has many benefits and helps restore your body health and uterus to its original position.  Our registered massage therapist will be able to assess your needs and work on healing your body from birth.

After birth not only your uterus, but your intestinal tract and urinary bladder have to regain their original positioning after being pushed to the side to make room for your growing baby. Your abdominal muscles may now be very relaxed and flaccid, you may feel especially weak and sore when attempting to sit up.

During this time, your breasts become enlarged, sore, and sensitive as the milk ducts go into production. Breastfeeding can put strain on your back and shoulders. A soothing postnatal massage will help you greatly.