A Prenatal Massage Therapy study at the University of Miami School of Medicine suggested that massage therapy during pregnancy may lower anxiety, decrease back and leg pain, improve sleep quality, and decrease levels of the stress hormone norepinephrine.
In another study of pregnancy massage in depressed women, researchers found that Prenatal Massage Therapy increased levels of the feel-good hormones serotonin and dopamine, decreased levels of cortisol (an indicator of stress) and resulted in an overall improvement in mood.
Prenatal Massage Therapy is a healthy way to reduce stress and promote overall wellness. Massage relieves many of the normal discomforts experienced during pregnancy, such as backaches, stiff neck, leg cramps, headaches and edema (or swelling). In addition, massage reduces stress on weight-bearing joints, encourages blood and lymph circulation, helps to relax nervous tension-which aids in better sleep-and can help relieve depression or anxiety caused by hormonal changes.
At My Massage Place, we take extra care to ensure our prenatal clients are comfortable. Sideline positioning with supportive, soft cushions is used which alleviates the extra strain on the lower back and pelvic areas when the pressure of massage techniques are applied. Extra strain in these areas can cause unnecessary back pain and discomfort. Through the second trimester of pregnancy, it is also acceptable for clients to lay on their backs with a small cushioned wedge placed under one hip which provides a slight elevation. Depending on where you are in your pregnancy, your therapist may utilize different massage techniques.
Women with normal, low-risk pregnancies can benefit greatly from the variety of massage techniques offered by a My Massage Place. However, women in high-risk pregnancies should consult their doctor or midwife before beginning a massage therapy program. If at any time during the prenatal massage you experience discomfort, tell your therapist immediately.