Our latest blog is from our massage therapist Ali Redman.
Massage therapy is the most common complementary treatment during the entire nine months of pregnancy as it can provide benefits to both mother and baby.
Prenatal massage
Various benefits can be experienced during prenatal massages, they include:
- Reducing edema (swelling) by activating the lymph nodes to naturally drain away fluid.
- Relaxes muscle tissue, particularly in the lower back, neck, and calves.
- Improves skin elasticity by bringing blood and nutrients to the area.
- Decrease heart rate and lower blood pressure.
- Increase blood circulation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to both mother and baby.
- Minimise stress by reducing cortisol and norepinephrine levels.
- Increase “feel-good” hormones, serotonin and dopamine, which can also improve sleep.
- Improve digestion by stimulating the effect on the digestive organs.
Note: it is best to discuss with your midwife or GP before seeing a massage therapist if there are any concerns.
During a parental massage safety measures are taken to ensure a relaxing and secure experience for the mother. Positioning the mother with pillows under feet, legs, belly and upper-body (depending on stage of pregnancy) is one common way of performing a pregnancy massage. Side-lying is a common position as a supine (face up) massage must be avoided due to deep blood vessels that can be restricted due to the weight of the baby, causing decreased circulation for both mother and baby. During prenatal massages trigger points and deep tissue applications should be avoided, as clinical trials have noted adverse effects on mothers (increased nausea and vomiting).
Postpartum massage
Postpartum massage can provide significant benefits to the new mother. Common complications and discomforts that occur postpartum include headaches, back pain, infections, mastitis, muscle discomfort and weakness. Receiving massages at this time to the musculoskeletal system, particularly to the back, hips, shoulders and abdominal regions is recommended as these areas will have been stretched and displaced and massage may assist in their recovery.
If you are a pregnant mother after some muscular relief and relaxation or know a mum-to-be deserving of a massage, contact Coast Sport online, or call us on 4356 2588 to book your appointment today.
Helping the Central Coast Feel Well, Move Well and Perform Well!