Prenatal Massage
What Is Prenatal Massage?
Prenatal massages are adapted for the anatomical changes you go through during pregnancy. In a traditional massage, you might spend over half the session lying face-down on your stomach (which is not possible with a baby belly) and half the time laying on your back (a position that puts pressure on a major blood vessel that can disrupt blood flow to your baby and leave you feeling extremely nauseous).
As your body changes, our highly trained massage therapists will make accommodations with special cushioning systems or holes that allow you to lie face down safely, while providing room for your growing belly and breasts. In addition to the special cushioning systems, our therapists might lie you on your side with the support of special pillows and cushions.
Can pregnant women get massages?
Prenatal massages are generally considered safe after the first trimester, as long as you get the green light from your practitioner and you let your massage therapist know you’re pregnant. Our prenatal massage specialists are certified to perform massage therapy during all stages of your pregnancy.
Benefits of Prenatal Massage
Research shows that massage can reduce stress hormones in your body and relax and loosen your muscles. It can also increase blood flow, which is so important when you're pregnant, and keep your lymphatic system working at peak efficiency. And it reconnects your mind with your body, a connection that's comforting if you sometimes wonder if there’s a baby in there or if an alien has taken up residence inside of you.
During pregnancy, regular prenatal massages may not only help you relax, but may also relieve:
- Insomnia
- Joint pain
- Neck and back pain
- Leg cramping
- Sciatica
- Swelling in your hands and feet (as long as that swelling isn't a result of preeclampsia)
- Carpal tunnel pain
- Headaches and sinus congestion