The Benefits of Massage During & Post Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a transformative and beautiful experience for women, but it can also come with its fair share of discomforts and physical challenges. For expectant mothers, their first priority is to ensure a healthy pregnancy and the well-being of their growing baby. While it is important to address the physical health of both the mother and the baby, it is also essential to support the emotional and mental needs of pregnant women throughout all the stages of their pregnancy. One way to support this is through pregnancy massage. 

Pregnancy brings about significant changes in a woman's body. Hormonal fluctuations and the physical demands of pregnancy lead to a range of transformative adaptations. These changes include:

Pregnancy hormones like estrogen and progesterone play a crucial role in supporting fetal development, but they also impact the body by causing breast tenderness, morning sickness, and changes in skin pigmentation. As the baby grows, the uterus expands, and the abdominal muscles and skin stretch, resulting in the formation of stretch marks. 

These changes can lead to various discomforts and challenges for expectant mothers, and understanding these effects is important for healthcare providers and individuals to provide appropriate care and support throughout the pregnancy journey. This may also continue even after giving birth. Postpartum, also known as the fourth trimester, refers to the period of time immediately following childbirth. It is a crucial phase during which a woman's body undergoes various physical and emotional changes as it recovers from pregnancy and birth. 

Pregnancy massage is a specialized form of massage therapy designed specifically for expectant mothers. It focuses on addressing the unique needs and concerns that arise during pregnancy, taking into account the anatomical and physiological changes that occur in the body. This type of massage is typically performed by trained and certified massage therapists who have knowledge and experience in prenatal massage techniques. The benefits of pregnancy massage for expectant mothers include:

Massage therapy is generally safe during pregnancy, but there are a few precautions to consider. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before receiving a prenatal massage to prevent contraindications, especially if you have:

As this article aims to emphasise that pregnancy massage is a safe and effective way to support the well-being of expectant mothers, it is important to address some misconceptions and concerns that surround the practice. It is understandable that expectant mothers can be anxious and worrisome. They have every right to, and there is nothing wrong with being too careful especially if it can be a risk to the baby’s safety. So, what are the common misconceptions about pregnancy massage?

The timing of postpartum massages depends on various factors, including the type of delivery and the mother's overall health. In general, it is safe to start postpartum massages as soon as the mother feels comfortable, and her healthcare provider gives the green light. Some women may begin massages within days after delivery, while others may prefer to wait a few weeks. It's important to communicate openly with a healthcare provider and a qualified massage therapist to determine the most appropriate time to start postpartum massages based on individual circumstances.

While massage therapy can offer numerous benefits during pregnancy, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider and choose a qualified therapist experienced in prenatal massage. By ensuring safety precautions and using appropriate techniques, expectant mothers can enjoy the many advantages that massage therapy can provide throughout their pregnancy journey.

During a pregnancy or postpartum massage session, the focus is on providing comfort, relaxation, and addressing specific needs associated with pregnancy or the postpartum period. Here's a general overview of what you can expect during a session:

This consultation helps the therapist customize the massage to meet your individual needs and ensure your safety and well-being.

For pregnant clients, the therapist may provide specialized pillows, cushions, or bolsters to support different areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, or lower back. Side-lying, semi-reclining, or modified positions are commonly used to avoid undue pressure on the abdomen.

For postpartum clients, the therapist will consider any specific postpartum concerns, such as breastfeeding comfort or healing from childbirth, and adjust the positioning accordingly.

The therapist may also incorporate other techniques, such as lymphatic drainage or gentle stretching, to address specific concerns or promote overall well-being.

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey as it is transformative. As women go through this stage in their lives, it is important to be guided with different support and care that are available to them. Bodhi Holistic Hub is a platform that can connect expectant mothers to trained and qualified practitioners who can support their journey to motherhood. Doulas are trained professionals who provide emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum and they are available to reach through Bodhi such as Damaris Lee who has certifications on pregnancy massage and helping families get evidence based care.  Ysaline Godet, who has certifications on  Life Coach ICF and Rebozo, is also a doula who has an unwavering passion for supporting mothers. One satisfied client detailed her experience with Ysaline and how their sessions made her feel safe, enlightened, and cared for.  

For more information on fertility and childbirth, there are a wide range of resources available on Bodhi’s Learning Hub.