For centuries, pregnant women have found comfort and relaxation through therapeutic massage.
Ideal for relieving stress, reducing muscle tension and soreness, and increasing overall health, massage is a safe and effective way to enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy, starting right now.
If you’re wondering how pregnancy massage can benefit you, here are five things you should know:
1. Massage regulates hormone production
According to research conducted over the last ten years, massage therapy increases hormones associated with relaxation and stress reduction. This, in turn, promotes more even mood and improved cardiovascular function.
In one study, women who got bi-weekly massages for five weeks had lower levels of stress hormones like norepinephrine and cortisol, and higher levels of relaxation hormones like serotonin and dopamine, both of which can ward off depression and anxiety.
2. Reduced swelling and edema
Edema is common during the later stages of pregnancy. Caused by reduced circulation, increased blood volume in the body, and pressure exerted by the uterus on major blood vessels, edema can be uncomfortable and limiting. Fortunately, massage can help resolve it.
Because massage therapy stimulates soft tissues and helps to disperse fluid, it can reduce swelling and help you stay comfortable throughout your pregnancy.
3. Increased comfort
One of the most common complaints of pregnancy is nerve pain, specifically sciatic nerve pain. Because the enlarged uterus exerts pressure on the muscles in the lower back and pelvic floor, it can pinch the sciatic nerve in the upper leg, causing sharp pain and discomfort.
By reducing pressure on inflamed nerves, massage therapy reduces tension and pain and can resolve sciatic nerve pain altogether.
4. Better fetal positioning
Massage helps expectant mothers maintain proper posture and cope with the changing alignment caused by the growing baby (and belly!).
Massage also increases the tone and flexibility of muscles, which makes it easier for mothers to carry additional weight.
5. Improved circulation
The human body produces 50-60 percent more blood during pregnancy, so circulation is essential. Fortunately, massage therapy helps facilitate it.
By supporting the return of blood to the heart and increasing blood flow to the uterus and placenta, massage therapy makes it easier for the body to process increased blood volume and ensure proper venous return to the heart.
