Pregnancy is a time of great joy and excitement, but it’s also a stressful period for the body. Hormonal changes in the body can lead to aches and pains, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Pregnancy massage has been shown to help alleviate these symptoms by reducing stress, increasing the levels of feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin, and decreasing levels of cortisol, the “stress” hormone.
However, it is important to note that pregnancy massage should not be considered a replacement for medical care. Women with high-risk pregnancies should discuss massage therapy with their healthcare provider. In general, for women who have healthy, low-risk pregnancies, regular massage is a safe and beneficial treatment.
In the first trimester, hormonal changes can trigger nausea and vomiting, making it difficult to eat or sleep comfortably. Pregnancy massage has been shown to improve these symptoms by lowering nausea and vomiting and promoting relaxation. It can also ease the back pain and stiffness that is often experienced in this stage, as the muscles stretch to make room for the baby.
By the second trimester, many women begin to feel their baby move. Massage can help relieve the discomfort that comes with feeling the baby’s kicks and punches, as well as the aching feet and legs from the extra weight. In addition, the therapist can focus on the client’s legs to help prevent blood clots that can form in the lower extremities due to circulatory changes caused by pregnancy.
The third trimester is when the most dramatic changes take place, both physically and emotionally. At this point, the mother’s heart is displaced to the abdominal cavity, and blood volume is at its peak. As a result, it is often uncomfortable to lie on the stomach for long periods of time. Pregnancy massage can help with this discomfort by using pillows to support the client’s torso and legs.
In general, it is best to avoid deep-tissue or intense pressure on the legs during pregnancy massage, as this can cause a DVT (blood clot in the leg) which can be dangerous for both the mom and the baby. Additionally, if the therapist notices any signs of DVT, such as swelling or heat in one leg, she should stop the massage and recommend that the client see a doctor for evaluation. The therapist should also avoid massaging the abdomen if the client is experiencing complications with her placenta, such as previa or accreta. Finally, it is always best to seek out a qualified and experienced Atlanta prenatal massage practitioner who has extensive training in pregnancy massage. A well trained therapist can help you stay comfortable and healthy throughout your entire pregnancy. For more details visit https://www.atlantachiropractor.net/.
