Pregnancy is one of life’s greatest joys, but it can be an exhausting journey for the mother. Many women struggle with various physical and emotional symptoms, including pain, fatigue, nausea, and anxiety about the impending birth of their child. Luckily, there are safe and effective ways to alleviate some of the discomforts of pregnancy, and a popular option is prenatal massage.
This type of massage is specially designed to accommodate the changing needs of a woman’s body during this special time. It’s also known to help ease aches and pains, reduce stress levels, and enhance the mother-baby bond.
A chiropractor in Atlanta who is certified in prenatal care will be familiar with the unique needs of an expecting client and understand how to adjust the session to accommodate the changing body. The therapist will ensure that the client is comfortable by using pillows, blankets and tables with cut-outs to support the torso. In addition, a specialized massage table may be used that allows the expectant mother to lie on her side. Depending on the stage of pregnancy, it is possible that the therapist will need to use a massage chair for some clients.
Regular prenatal massages have been shown to balance hormone levels, which can improve the mood and increase feelings of well-being. Studies have also found that pregnant women who receive massages experience shorter labors, and their babies are less likely to be born prematurely or underweight.
In addition to reducing stress, prenatal massages can also improve the quality of sleep for expectant mothers by promoting relaxation and easing aches and pains. Nausea is a common side effect of pregnancy, and massage therapy has been known to soothe it by reducing tension in the abdominal muscles and easing pressure on the nerves. Massages can also ease the tension of swollen ankles and feet by increasing circulation.
Prenatal massages can be performed at any point during the pregnancy, although it’s important to avoid the first trimester, due to the increased risk of miscarriage. It’s also a good idea to talk with your doctor before getting a prenatal massage, as some practitioners might not be trained in this area or might have specific concerns about their patients’ health.
A good prenatal massage will have the mother lying on her side, with pillows or bolsters to support her head, legs, and back. This is important because lying on the stomach can put pressure on the blood vessels, which could lead to dizziness and a drop in blood pressure.
During the massage, the therapist will also adjust the position of the client as needed for comfort. It’s also important to use only reputable, high-quality massage oils or lotions that are safe for both mother and baby.
Overall, there are many benefits to prenatal massage. In addition to lowering stress, easing aches and pains, and improving sleeping patterns, it can also decrease the need for medication during labor, which is a huge benefit for expectant moms. Studies have also shown that prenatal massage can help reduce the rate of complications and the need for medical interventions during childbirth, which is something every mother-to-be wants! So, don’t be afraid to treat yourself to a prenatal massage and see for yourself how it can enhance your overall pregnancy experience.