Maternity massage helps expectant mothers adapt to the changes in their bodies as the baby grows. This modality can help relieve swelling, muscle spasms, cramps, and myofascial pain, especially in the back and neck. Maternity massage can also help reduce stress on weight-bearing joints and musculo-fascial structures. Pregnancy massage can provide emotional support and physical nurturance which in turn can help the mother prepare for a more successful delivery and recovery process.

First Trimester

Relieve Headaches

Help alleviate morning sickness

Reduce fatigue

Second Trimester

Alleviate backaches

Relieve leg cramps

Third Trimester

Reduce swelling/edema

Relieve pain from varicosities

Enhance sleep

Prepare pelvic muscle for birth process

Women with normal low-risk pregnancies can benefit greatly from massage by a trained massage therapist.

However,
High Risk Pregnancies -- Legal and medical considerations require that massage should NOT proceed without written release from her physician if a woman's pregnancy is considered high risk.

The following are regarded as being high-risk pregnancies by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology:

Diabetic mother

Cardiac disorders (heart of lung problems)

Chronic hypertension (high blood pressure)

Previous problem pregnancy

Multiple pregnancy

Mother's age is under 20 or over 35

Asthmatic mother

Suspected/known RH negative mother or genetic problems

Drug exposure

The day of you appointment you need to present a written release from your physician if you are considered high risk.

Massage After Delivery of My Baby!

Massage during the weeks after delivery helps to restore muscle tone and reposition the pelvis.

"Photo courtesy of ABMP"