9 Reasons Pregnancy Massage Offers Incredible Relief...
Imagine breathing deeply while receiving a soothing massage in a position where your body is able to let go and settle into deep relaxation. Pregnancy is a precious time in a woman’s life. It can also be demanding while we undergo significant physical and emotional changes. Pregnancy massage provides support to minimize and relieve the discomfort you may be experiencing. The benefits gained during massage stay with you even after you return back to your normal activities.
As a Certified Prenatal Massage Therapist, I offer individual and sincere attention to the expecting mother. Having received massage throughout both of my pregnancies, I know first hand the relief and positive impact one-hour of undivided attention can have on your emotional and physical well-being. My personal experience, specialized training and 17 years of dedication to this work places you in safe, knowledgeable and compassionate hands.
Recommendations and guidelines:
Pregnancy massage is recommended during the 2nd and 3rd Trimester of pregnancy. Your safety and comfort are my top priorities during this time. Side lying or semi reclined positions are used to insure the best support for you while you experience optimal relaxation. There are times when lying flat on your back is also appropriate with a wedge placed under one hip. Most pregnancy massages last 60 minutes but a 90 minute massage is highly recommended to experience the full benefits of this nourishing treatment.
How is massage beneficial:
Promotes overall wellness by reducing stress hormones
Reduces swelling and edema by encouraging circulation
Soothes muscle tension and joint pain
Assists in hormone regulation
Reduces anxiety
Improves sleep
Eases nerve pain such as sciatica nerve pain
Decrease symptoms of depression
Improves labor outcomes and newborn health
Research shows…
Massage during prenatal care significantly alters the hormone levels associated with relaxation and stress. In women who received bi-weekly massages for 5 weeks, hormones such as norepinephrine and cortisol were reduced and dopamine and serotonin levels were increased. These changes led to fewer complications during childbirth and newborn complications. The evidence strongly suggests maternal and newborn health benefits when therapeutic massage is incorporated into regular prenatal care.
Why is it important to follow best care practices:
I value close communication to insure the highest quality of care. There are contraindications for pregnancy massage that I pay careful attention to, observe and track. Some of the common ones are listed below.
Bleeding
Pre-term contractions- Braxton-Hicks contractions
High risk pregnancy
Pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH)
Preeclampsia
Previous pre-term labor
Severe swelling, high blood pressure, or sudden severe headaches
If necessary, I will spend the extra time communicating with your primary care provider, with your consent, in order to provide you with the best available treatment.
How to request an appointment
I strongly encourage and recommend pregnancy massage for any woman desiring time to renew, refresh and restore. You are well worth the time and money. Good self- care is an essential part of parenting well. Please take the invaluable step toward caring for your personal wellness by visiting my website and scheduling a pregnancy massage today.
Kimberly Bianco-Smith, LMP
www.pathwaytowardwellness.com
Certified Hypnotherapist
Certified Cupping Therapist
Certified Hakomi Therapist
