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The Art of Prenatal Massage

Learn the Art of Massage During Pregnancy

By Kelly Lott, RMT

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Massage during pregnancy is therapeutic bodywork which focuses on the special needs of the mother-to-be as her body goes through the dramatic changes of the childbirth experience. It is a fast-growing field in the United States that has attracted the interest of labor and delivery nurses, nurse-midwives, childbirth educators and obstetricians. Massage therapy enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue.

The popularity of prenatal massage is the result of a trend toward a higher level of wellness, especially during pregnancy. Many women are postponing childbirth until they have achieved other goals, such as careers and relationships. Because of this, pregnancy is anticipated and enjoyed to its fullest for the wondrous experience it is. Today's pregnant women – along with other health care consumers – are looking for alternative approaches to support traditional health services.

In addition to the fact that massage during pregnancy just plain feels good, there are many other benefits for the mom-to-be and her baby, too. A study conducted by Dr. Tiffany Field at the University of Miami School of Medicine showed that massage actually reduces stress hormones in the body. Touch is vital to the mother's physical and emotional well-being as she adapts to her new body image. Regardless of individual circumstances, a pregnant woman's body is challenged, changed and stressed in many ways. Massage gives special attention to the mother-to-be, which in turn nurtures the new life that grows within her.

Massage during pregnancy is usually safe for most mothers. Your massage therapist will want to know if you are having any problems or complications with your pregnancy before you begin. If you are, then your therapist will require approval from your primary health care provider before proceeding with any bodywork. The following are circumstances in which massage should not be performed:


	Touch is vital to the mother's physical and emotional well-being as she adapts to her new body image.

heavy discharge (watery or bloody);
diabetes;
contagious illness;
fever;
vomiting;
unusual pain;
preeclampsia;
high blood pressure;
morning sickness;
abdominal pain;
diarrhea;
any malignant condition.

Areas of the body that should not be massaged include:

skin rashes, open sores, bruises;
inflammation;
raised or distended varicose veins;
local infection sites.

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The Art of Prenatal Massage

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Anonymous says

June 18, 2009

These comments are so true! Make sure your therapist has advanced Prenatal Certification AND alot of experience. You will then be in SAFE HANDS

lindsay@themommyspa.com says

June 15, 2009

I was 40 yrs. old when I was pregnancy with my daughter. I suffered pregnancy induced carpal tunnel syndrome, gestational diabetes, and the usual aches and pains of pregnancy. Prenatal massage by a therapist trained in pregnancy care was able to help me feel so much better. By stimulating my lymphatic system the water retention in my hands and feet was greatly reduced, thus so was the carpal tunnel pain. The back and hip pain I was experiencing was reduced and I began to sleep better. It was difficult to find a therapist who was actually certified in pregnancy massage. The spas all offered it but the service was pretty much a light - watered down version of a relaxation massage. You definitely want to find a therapist who has had more than a 2 hour safety precaution class. For best results look for a private practice massage therapist who has completed a 30 hour course in prenatal massage. They will be able to safely position you and address your issues.

Anonymous says

April 14, 2009

Massage anytime is wonderful, but especially during pregnancy! There are a lot of misconceptions about the safety of massage during pregnancy, but most experts agree that it is safe during any stage of pregnancy if done correctly. That is why it is important to work with someone who is certified in prenatal massage, to ensure that correct positions and methods are used for your stage of pregnancy. Plus, if your massage therapist is not comfortable with and skilled at performing massage on pregnant women, then they probably won't be the best choice to help you relax!

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