Massages at any stage of life are beneficial and, even more so, during pregnancy.
Pregnancy is a unique experience for each woman, and not all women experience the same changes or symptoms. However, pregnancy is a complex process that creates numerous physical, hormonal, and emotional changes in a woman’s body that occur gradually throughout the three trimesters of pregnancy, each serving to support the growing fetus and prepare the body for childbirth.
In the First Trimester (Weeks 1-12), hormonal changes, which can affect mood, digestion and breast tissue, occur to give support and maintenance to the pregnancy. There are also physical changes, from tender, swollen breasts, fatigue, frequent urination, morning sickness, constipation, bloating and heartburn. On top of that, there are emotional fluctuations laced with both anxiety and excitement.
In the Second Trimester (Weeks 13-26), hormonal changes continue with the aim of supporting the growing fetus and preparing the body for labor. The physical changes become more evident as they begin to show the abdomen growing bigger often accompanied by stretch marks. There may be an increase of appetite once morning sickness subsides, and the baby’s first movements, known as quickening, are often felt at this stage as well as painless contractions that prepare the uterus for labor. While emotions may be more stable here, there will be a sense of excitement as the baby’s movements become noticeable.
The Third Trimester (Weeks 27-40) starts the hormonal production of oxytocin in preparation for labor. Physically, there is a sign of rapid fetal growth. During this stage, a woman will also face other challenges such as discomfort from the baby gaining most of its weight at this time. Discomfort comes in the form of weight gain, cardiovascular and respiratory changes, immune system changes, back pain, leg cramps, swelling of the ankles and difficulty in finding a comfortable position in bed. As the uterus expands, shortness of breath, frequent urination and cervical changes occur as the latter begins to soften, thin out and dilate in preparation for labor. Here again, emotions start fluctuating as anxiety and anticipation of labor and childbirth begin to play, moods swinging high and low. Normally, strong maternal instincts kick in as thoughts flow towards preparing the necessary items needed post childbirth, from turning a room into a beautiful nursery equipped with a cot as well as buying or making baby clothes.
So How Can Massages be Beneficial for a Pregnant Woman?
- Massages reduce stress and anxiety, relaxing the body and mind. Good for the expectant mum and good for the baby
- Massages ease muscle tension and pain throughout the stages of pregnancy.
- Massages promote relaxation thus helping with better sleep quality.
- Massages reduce swelling and stimulate the flow of blood and lymph.
- Massages, by improving circulation, help deliver more oxygen and nutrients to both the expectant mother and the baby.
- Massages help relieve tension headaches caused by hormonal changes.
- Massages prepare the body for labor, keeping the muscle supple and improving flexibility.
- Massages give emotional support which is important to control anxiety and mood swings.
Which is the Most Beneficial Style of Massage for a Pregnant Woman?
A pregnancy massage usually combines several styles designed around the needs of a woman. Generally speaking, the massage focuses on the lower back, hips and legs but the therapist may address other areas as requested by the patient, for example, neck, arms, head and face. Soothing gliding strokes, kneading and circular movements are often applied but Manual Lymph Drainage may be used on swollen legs and feet. The massage itself may be either performed with the woman lying on her side or with the use of belly pillows.
Are there any Contraindications?
Women with a history of miscarriages are advised to wait until the second trimester, when the pregnancy is stable, to have a massage, however, it is highly recommended that advice be sought from the gynecologist first.
Our experienced Massage Therapist, Mafalda, offers a wide range of massage techniques tailored to your needs. Ready to book your session? Call us at 1300 538 999 or book online at www.alivephysioandwellness.com.au