Massage Therapy for Pregnant Moms

Posted by Dr. Della Parker     on August 8, 2018

Massage therapy during pregnancy is an inspired choice for prenatal care. It relieves many of the discomforts associated with pregnancy, such as backaches, stiff neck, leg cramps, headaches, and edema (or swelling). It is a healthy way to reduce stress and promote overall wellness.

BENEFITS OF PRENATAL MASSAGE

In addition, massage for pregnant women reduces stress on weight-bearing joints, encourages blood and lymph circulation, helps to relax nervous tension — which aids in better sleep — and can help relieve depression or anxiety caused by hormonal changes. It is important to have a massage therapist who is trained in prenatal massage. Here are some benefits of massage therapy that are specific to prenatal massage:

Hormone Regulation

In women who received bi-weekly massages for only five weeks, hormones such as norepinephrine and cortisol (hormones associated with stress) were reduced and dopamine and serotonin levels were increased (low levels of these hormones are associated with depression).

These changes in hormone levels also led to fewer complications during birth and fewer instances of newborn complications, such as low birth weight. The evidence strongly suggests there are maternal and newborn health benefits when therapeutic massage is incorporated into regular prenatal care.

Reduction of Swelling

Edema, or swelling of the joints during pregnancy, is often caused by reduced circulation and increased pressure on the major blood vessels by the heavy uterus. Massage helps to stimulate soft tissues to reduce the collection of fluids in swollen joints. This also improves the removal of tissue waste carried by the body’s lymph system.

Improvement of Nerve Pain

Sciatic nerve pain is experienced by many women in late pregnancy as the uterus rests on the muscles of the pelvic floor and lower back. The pressure of the uterus spreads tension to the muscles of the upper and lower leg, causing them to swell and put pressure on nearby nerves.

If you want to take control of your health call Stellar Health and Wellness for an appointment today 503-344-6631.