Massage In Pregnancy
With Roberto Valeri
Massage during pregnancy focuses on the needs of the mother-to-be, as her body undergoes through some profound changes as it prepares itself for childbirth.
Pregnancy can be a magical time for a woman, but also a source of aches and pains of all kinds. Backache, swollen ankles, aching muscles, fatigue and stress are commonplace. Roberto's highly sensitive approach to massage in pregnancy respects the body’s special condition while working to safely ease discomfort with a gentle, nurturing touch. Massage enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue. For this reason, massage has attracted the interest of labour and delivery nurses, nurse-midwives, childbirth educators and obstetricians.
Massage in pregnancy can be carried out in a variety of different ways. The mother-to-be may lie on her side to be massaged, or sit comfortably on a stool, resting against some soft pillows placed on the edge of a massage couch. Apart from these particular positions, other ways can be found in order to create comfort and relaxation. After the first 22 weeks of pregnancy, lying flat on your back can cause pressure on deep blood vessels. To avoid this problem, a side-lying position is used, with the help of pillows for maximum comfort.
Benefits of prenatal massage include:
• emotional support through nurturing touch;
• relaxation and decreased insomnia;
• stress relief on weight-bearing joints including the ankles, lower back and pelvis;
• neck and back pain relief caused by muscle imbalance and weakness;
• preparing the muscles used during childbirth;
• reduced swelling in the hands and feet;
• fewer calf cramps;
• headache and sinus congestion relief.
Is prenatal massage for you?
Massage during pregnancy is almost always safe for mothers-to-be. However, it is important that you bring to my attention any problems you may be having during your pregnancy before we commence treatment. If there are complications, you will first need to seek approval from your primary healthcare provider.