Pregnancy brings about incredible changes, and those changes bring about discomfort. Swelling feet, backache, and restless sleeping all ensue. Prenatal massage is the answer, keeping expectant women feeling good during each trimester. In addition to the benefits of relaxation, circulation is increased, stress hormones reduced, and overall health is maintained.
But not all messages are identical. Prenatal massage requires specialized education for the safety of the mom and the baby. That is why the best choice is to select a Board-Certified Massage Therapist (BCMT). With the right massage professional, you can experience the benefits of massage with complete confidence.
What to Expect During a Prenatal Massage
Relaxation and healing are the objectives during the massage. Face-down lying is not necessarily required; side-lying is available using supportive pillows for support.
Massage strokes are soothing but firm, targeting the main spots such as the lower back, hips, shoulders, and legs. Lighter pressure facilitates the draining of the lymphatic fluid, relieving the swelling from the hands and the feet. For individuals with the common affliction of the sciatic nerve, focused work can reduce the compression against the nerve.
How Prenatal Massage Helps Ensure Healthy Pregnancy
Stress management is crucial during pregnancy, and massage plays a big role in keeping both the mind and body balanced. Studies show that regular prenatal massage can lower cortisol levels while increasing serotonin and dopamine, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.
Beyond stress relief, massage benefits:
- Reduce lower back pain: Carrying excess weight can also cause your posture to shift and strain muscles.
- Improve circulation: Proper circulation guarantees that the mom and the baby obtain oxygen and nutrients.
- Alleviate headaches: Tension around the neck and the shoulders can induce headaches, and massage will ease them.
- Promote better sleep: Relaxation and less discomfort allow for easier sleeping.
Moms-to-be often find their overall mobility and energy levels improve after only a few sessions.
Choosing the Right Massage Therapist in Castro Valley, CA
Finding the right massage professional is the solution. Experience, certification, and knowledge about the specifics of pregnancy massage are not something you can negotiate. A good massage professional will also listen; each pregnancy is different, and massage will need to be modified for each individual’s situation.
Why Board Certification Matters
Massage therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and pregnancy is not the exception. A Board-Certified Massage Therapist has the highest level of education and hands-on experience. This is equivalent to total knowledge about how to make the technique fit each stage of pregnancy.
For example, some pressure points that can generally be tolerated during normal massage will need to be skipped when massaged during pregnancy. Proper positioning is also very important. Lying for extended periods on your back can restrict circulation.
As a Board-Certified Massage Therapist (BCMT), I specialize in the practice of providing expectant mothers with beneficial and safe massage treatment. My goal is to help you feel your best during this special time. Call now for an appointment and discover the benefits for yourself.
