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4.How close to my due date is it safe to have a massage?
In most cases it is safe (and beneficial!) to receive massage up to your due date and beyond. Many women schedule a session on their due date so they have something to look forward to if they have not yet gone into labour. A massage is a great way to prepare your body for the experience of giving birth. However, if you have been experiencing any complications such as pre-eclampsia, diabetes, bleeding etc you should always consult your doctor first.
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3. What are the main benefits of having a pregnancy massage? Can you really help with the pain issues I've been experiencing or am I just going to be relaxed?
A growing body of research supports the benefits of regular skilful massage during this time, as a safe, drug-free, relaxing way to minimise and relieve the common discomforts you may be experiencing. It can improve not only your own physical and mental wellbeing but also that of your baby. Here is a summary of the main benefits:
• Helps to alleviate many of the common discomforts experienced during pregnancy. The most common complaints which my clients report are: lower-back pain, upper-back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, sacroiliac and hip joint pain, sciatica, headaches, leg cramps, muscle stiffness, carpal tunnel syndrome, heartburn and acid reflux, fatigue, varicose veins, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, fluid retention of the lower extremities, insomnia and constipation
• Increases blood circulation, which provides more oxygen and nutrients to both mother and baby and stimulates the lymph system, thereby increasing immunity and removal of toxins
• Stabilizes hormonal levels and helps relieve depression or anxiety caused by hormonal changes
• Soothes and relaxes the nervous system by releasing endorphins into the mother’s body. As a result, the expectant mother feels more relaxed and at ease, and will also sleep more easily and more deeply
• Assists in maintaining good posture and adjusting to a changing alignment caused by the baby’s increasing weight. Massage increases muscle tone and flexibility, enhancing the ability to carry this extra weight while also relieving aches and pains, leg cramps and muscle spasms
• Eases the load on the heart and helps keep blood pressure in check
• Enhances the pliability of skin and underlying tissues• WSupports the return of blood to the heart and increases blood flow to the uterus and placenta. With the enormous demands placed on the circulatory system during pregnancy, blood volume may increase up to 60 percent compared to pre-pregnancy levels.
• Prepares the mother-to-be for an easier delivery with its sedating effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and stress relief
• Offers a natural, safe, drug-free alternative choice for pain relief, since taking medications are often limited during a pregnancy for the sake of the unborn child
• In addition to the physical benefits, pregnancy massage provides expecting women with the emotional support and nurturing touch