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Home › Articles › Multiples › The Home Stretch

The Home Stretch

Surviving the Last Trimester With Twins

By Kendeyl Johansen

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"In any pregnancy, and especially a twin pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes extreme structural changes in a short period of time. Massage can help by soothing aching muscles, releasing tension, improving mood and leveling out glandular secretions," says Marnie Beacham, licensed massage therapist and owner of New Beginnings Bodywork in Park City, Utah. "It also prepares the body for delivery with a conditioning response – massage teaches the body to relax to touch."

Beacham adjusts her technique for pregnancy, providing a gentle, tension-relieving massage. "During the third trimester I like to use a side-lying posture with a body pillow to support the belly that the woman gets to hug," she says.

Prior to booking a pregnancy massage, Beacham cautions women to make sure a therapist has knowledge of the physiology and anatomy of pregnancy in order to avoid contraindicated work. "Expect a knowledgeable therapist to ask questions about your pregnancy and to get a medical history in order to choose the right massage," she says.

The Perfect Ending
Even though a multiple pregnancy is complex, twin moms agree that it's nothing in comparison to caring for twin newborns. You can expect sweet, tender times in between lusty crying and round-the-clock feedings that leave little sleep for Mom.

In addition to procuring much-needed help, massage can also help lift mind and spirit after delivery. "Massage in the weeks and months after delivery can relieve postpartum depression, help the body heal and relieve stress and tension," says Beacham. So don't forget that besides caring for twin infants, you also need to care for yourself.

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