Pregnancy Massage Therapy Explained

By Arthur Bakeright

Is pregnancy massage therapy advisable to mother and baby? Is it safe and is it beneficial?

The modern day mother-to-be is often a stressed individual, having to survive the increasing pressures of today’s fast paced society and work place. Yet at the same time, she understands that her wellness is crucial even more so during her pregnancy if she wants a trouble free delivery process and a happy healthy baby.

This increased awareness has lead many to search for alternative methods to supplement or enhance traditional health services. Pregnancy massage therapy is an example of one such alternative approach. It has well acknowledged therapeutic value as it enhances muscle and joint function, improves blood circulation and relieves physical and mental fatigue.

Pregnancy massage therapy can be postnatal, prenatal or even during the labour process. All can be highly beneficial if given appropriately by an experienced massage therapist.

During prenatal massage, the focus is on reducing pregnancy discomforts and aims to enhance the emotional and physiological emotional well-being of both the mother and her foetus. A relaxed mother helps the foetus in brain development and general health. The massage also helps to prepare and strengthen the muscles that are used in the delivery process.

Women often fear a long and prolonged delivery process. Yet, many also desire a birth that is as natural as possible and without the use of epidural or other drugs. During labour, massage techniques can be used to help hasten the delivery process while easing anxiety and pain.

Post-natal massage primarily focuses on toning the new mother’s body and reducing fluid retention which helps the body return to balance and shape. It also helps to re-energize and rejuvenate the new mother which in turn enhances her ability to bond with her new baby.

A pregnant female should always consult her doctor before proceeding with a program of pregnancy massage therapy. Her general objective should be simply to achieve an enhanced physical and mental state to enable a positive and healthy birthing experience, and a skilled therapist experienced in pregnancy massage therapy can help toward that outcome.