Congratulations on your new arrival! Pregnancy is an exciting time. Of course, it also comes with a lot of changes in your body (and emotional) state. You’re probably eating healthy, maybe taking prenatal vitamins, and looking for all the ways to support your body and the little one inside.
One of those benefits is with a maternity massage. Massage relieves stress and helps reduce any discomfort you may be experiencing in your changing body. A therapeutic massage also boosts blood circulation and stimulates endorphins in your body. Both help circulate nutrients, reduce stress, and improves your sleep.
A maternity massage is different from a regular massage in that your massage therapist will position you differently. Usually, you’ll be in a comfortable semi-reclined position with supportive pillows. Your massage therapist will use a few different techniques that are applicable to pregnant women.
5 Benefits of a Maternity Massage
If you’re like a lot of pregnant women, you may find you have new or deepened aches and pains during pregnancy. Some of the common ones include upper or lower back pain, heartburn, and headaches. A therapeutic massage can help with these and other pains.
1- Massage improves circulation – That means increased oxygen flow, which carries nutrients throughout your body. This also boosts immunity and helps your body release toxins. (That’s why massage therapists always encourage you to drink a lot of water afterward.)
2- Releases Endorphins – One of the reasons you feel so relaxed after a therapeutic massage is because it releases endorphins. These are the “feel good” hormones in your body and they also reduce stress and help you sleep better.
3- Reduces Aches and Pains – Hip pain, sciatica, back pain, and even acid reflux can all be associated with pregnancy but a maternity massage can help. For further pain reduction, you can combine massage with chiropractic care for a complete, all-natural approach.
4- Good for the heart – Therapeutic massage can reduce your blood pressure and it increases blood flow to your uterus so your baby gets the nutrients it needs.
5- Stress Reduction – Sometimes you know you’re under a lot of stress. If that’s the case, you probably know stress isn’t good for you or your baby. A caring massage can help you feel nurtured.
Now that you know a maternity massage has so many benefits for pregnant women, are you ready to schedule yours?
As always, if you have any questions or concerns about maternity massage, talk with your healthcare practitioner. If you’re in Doylestown, Pa., McQuaite Chiropractic can recommend a massage therapist for you.
