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Embrace the Changes with Supportive Care
Pregnancy is a time of incredible changes as your body adapts to support the growing life within
you. It's essential to care for your body, mind, and spirit during this period, as two lives depend on your health and vitality.
Benefits of Prenatal Massage
Massage can alleviate many of the aches and pains associated with pregnancy. Here are some of
the ways pregnancy massage can help:
Reduce Muscle Cramping and Tender Trigger Points: Alleviate discomfort from tight
muscles.
Relieve Muscle and Joint Pain: Address pain in the shoulders, back, hips, and legs.
Improve Flexibility: Enhance your body’s ability to adapt to pregnancy changes.
Promote Positive Body Image: Help you experience and accept bodily changes
positively.
Ease Social Adjustments: Reduce stress from adjustments at home, work, and with
family and friends.
Alleviate Digestive Issues: Eases constipation, gas, and heartburn.
Decrease Fluid Retention: Reduce swelling in hands and feet.
Relieve Headaches: Alleviate tension headaches.
Inhibit Varicose Veins and Stretch Marks: Slow their progression.
Learn Self-Care Techniques: Gain tips for sleeping positions, stretches, and breathing
techniques to manage labor discomfort.
During Your Massage Session
In a pregnancy-supportive massage session, pillows and cushions will be used for comfortable
positioning. In later pregnancy, you may be positioned on your side. If this is uncomfortable, you
can request to be seated. You will always be covered with a sheet, towel, or blanket, except when
an area is being massaged.
Your comfort is paramount. If you become hot, ask for fewer covers. If you are sensitive to
smells, request unscented lotion. Always communicate any discomfort or the need to use the
restroom. Your comfort and safety are key.
Discussing Massage with Your Therapist and Healthcare Provider
If you are unsure about receiving massage during your pregnancy, talk to your massage therapist.
Massage is beneficial for most pregnancies but keep your therapist informed of any medical
changes. Always consult your healthcare provider about prenatal and postpartum massage, as it
may not be appropriate for certain medical conditions.
Massage During Labor
Did you know that stress can interfere with hormones that induce labor? Massage during labor
can encourage a faster delivery process. It helps with relaxation between contractions, eases the
pain of muscle contractions, and offers emotional comfort, support, and encouragement. You and
your birthing partner can meet with your massage therapist to learn techniques for use during
labor.
Postpartum Massage
After your baby arrives, self-care remains crucial. Your body undergoes significant changes as it
heals and prepares you for motherhood. Massage can reduce stress, which can improve milk
production for breastfeeding and provide comfort during postpartum "baby blues." Always check with your healthcare provider to determine when it's appropriate to continue with massage.
Contact Bodyworks Wellness Center
At Bodyworks Wellness Center, located off Wolf Road in Albany, NY, our licensed and expertly
trained therapists are dedicated to supporting you through every stage of pregnancy and beyond.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the benefits of pregnancy
massage.
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