A candle-lit room, calming music and cucumber slices. These are the images that flood people’s minds once they hear the word “massage,” and for the most part, they are a very accurate description. However, just because each massage has a similar atmosphere, this doesn’t mean that all massages are the same.
From deep tissue to hot stone, each massage varies slightly in terms of how much pressure is applied and what part of the body is worked on. While the general population has its options to choose from, there is a very specific type of massage designed with a very specific population in mind: the prenatal massage.
This type of massage is a safe and effective way of reducing stress in the mother and relieving some of the uncomfortable symptoms associated with pregnancy. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most common pregnancy symptoms and how they can be mitigated with prenatal massage.
Common Pregnancy Symptoms
While some pregnancy symptoms last the full 9 months, such as nausea and frequent urination, each trimester comes with a new host of symptoms.
During the first trimester, women may experience fatigue, tender breasts, mood swings and headache. As the body begins to change, they will typically notice the most symptoms during this stage.
Many women believe the second trimester is easier than the first, as this is when they’re more likely to have adjusted to the wide array of symptoms. Some common second-trimester symptoms are the appearance of stretch marks, weight gain and body aches.
The third trimester will typically produce the most intense symptoms, as this is when pregnant women are getting closer to delivery. Trouble breathing, insomnia and even more weight gain are common during this time.
Suffice it to say, pregnant women are the most deserving of a relaxing massage given the array of symptoms they need to deal with! A prenatal massage not only relaxes the mother, but it offers many additional benefits as well.
How prenatal massages can help
Apart from stress reduction, a major benefit of getting a prenatal massage is muscle pain relief. Body aches and tension are common symptoms of pregnancy — and a prenatal massage helps loosen the muscles and reduce swelling of the joints. Back pain, headaches and carpal tunnel pain are only some of the ailments that a prenatal massage can help alleviate.
Another benefit is the increased blood flow that usually results from the massage. This is especially important when you are pregnant, as increased blood flow will keep your body working at an optimal level and flush out any toxins.
Before you start searching for prenatal massage near you or start wondering “where is the closest pregnancy massage near me?” you should first understand the differences that come with this massage compared to a typical one.
How a prenatal massage differs from other types of massage
The overall goal of a massage is simple: relax and rejuvenate. The same is true for a prenatal massage, with the exception some different positionings of the body.
Whereas a typical massage will see the client lying face down and face up, these two positions are not ideal for a pregnant woman. The former is almost impossible for obvious reasons and the latter will put pressure on a major blood vessel.
Prenatal massages are designed specifically to meet the anatomical changes of a woman’s body. If you are coming in multiple times throughout your pregnancy, your massage therapist will adapt his or her approach and ensure they are positioned in a comfortable and safe manner. Special tables and cushions are used to help the therapist move you into the right position.
Additionally, any massaging on the legs will have to be very gentle. Since pregnancy causes women to be at risk for blood clots, deep tissue massages on the legs, in particular, are risky. A prenatal massage is also a very communicative one, where you and your therapist will be working together throughout the session to ensure you aren’t in pain.
Scheduling your prenatal massage
If you’re tired of all the aches and pains that come with pregnancy and you’re convinced a prenatal massage is right for you, it’s time to book your first session! Our team of massage therapists at gesund are ready to help you release some of that stress and experience the many benefits of a prenatal massage.
If you are ready to experience one of the best prenatal massages in Toronto, get in touch with gesund by calling 416-913-5170 — or visit our website and book an appointment!
