The body undergoes so many changes during pregnancy, some of them potentially quite challenging or stressful for the pregnant person. Each individual will experience these changes differently and may not feel them as disruptive, but within the range of what can happen, here are a few examples: shifting hormones that can cause nausea and mood swings, increased blood and lymph circulating throughout the body potentially causing swelling, added body weight which can pull the body out of alignment, causing tightness or soreness in new places, pressure on the diaphragm and digestive organs causing shortness of breath and digestive difficulties, stretched ligaments creating discomfort or instability in the joints and possibly interrupted sleep patterns due to all of these changes. 

 

Therapeutic massage is known to help with calming the nervous system, bringing the recipient into a parasympathetic state more commonly known as ‘rest and digest’. The breath can become more quiet and steady, and the mind can focus on tuning into the body at a deeper level, releasing tension and negativity held there. Prenatal massage is such a wonderful gift to both parent and baby, united in one body, as it can quell nausea, prevent pain and/or strain during pregnancy, reduce swelling, help to balance emotions by releasing stress, and prepare for an easier birth due to a more balanced nervous system and well aligned structure overall.

 

It is safe to receive massage at any stage of pregnancy unless you have any high risk factors or specific contraindications from your doctor or midwife.

 

Amy is a MaMassage® Certified Therapist.