Pregnancy Massage
Along with being a joyful experience, pregnancy can be tiring and uncomfortable. Massage can help you to optimise your health and wellbeing, and consequently that of your baby.
Pregnancy massage is designed to be relaxing and to promote lymphatic drainage, so gentle, stroking (effleurage) techniques are used mainly. Deeper, firmer massage is avoided because ligaments are softer during pregnancy.
Some of the potential benefits of massage during pregnancy are:
- relaxation and better quality of sleep
- relief from aches and pains
- improvement in blood flow and energy levels
- promotion of lymphatic drainage and a reduction in the swelling of limbs
- maintenance of skin elasticity, and easing of stretch marks and tightness.
Positioning is key during pregnancy massage in order to:
- enhance your comfort
- reduce the strain of your baby’s weight on your back, legs, stomach and shoulders
- ensure that circulation is unimpaired
- avoid additional pressure on your baby.
I recommend informing your midwife and doctor that you are planning to have massage during your pregnancy. Massage is not suitable for high risk pregnancies, so should be avoided if you have vaginal bleeding or spotting, threatened miscarriage, a history of early labour, placental dysfunction, eclampsia or gestational diabetes.
I use organic grapeseed oil for pregnancy massage, which is naturally non-allergenic.
If you would like to find out more about pregnancy massage or to book a consultation, do get in touch with me.