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Research now supports what practitioners have long known: in a healthy pregnancy, the risks of massage are low and the benefits are undeniable.
Massage during pregnancy has recently been believed to be a dangerous undertaking, but that misconception has really been put to rest in the majority of the scientific community. In the caring hands of a well-trained practitioner, massage can be safely received during pregnancy, benefitting the mother and child alike.
According to the American Pregnancy Association, prenatal massage can be instrumental in maintaining a smooth pregnancy. The benefits range from stress reduction to pain relief and hormone regulation.
It’s true that there are a few cases where prenatal massage is not advisable. In the face of certain medical conditions or a high risk of miscarriage, for example, massage is not recommended. Moms-to-be should always check in with their doctors before scheduling an appointment with a massage practitioner.
Once you have a physician’s approval, you’re all clear to begin receiving. However, it still may be uncomfortable to lie on your back or stomach during the massage. In this case, Thai massage becomes an especially good choice, as it offers you the option of using a number of side-lying and seated positions.
Through the use of assisted stretching with a certified professional, the recipient can get all the necessary muscle relief without worrying about over-exerting herself or feeling uncomfortable.
Stress Reduction
There’s a reason that companies around the world give paid maternity leave (although the U.S. has a long way to go in that department), and it’s not just to give women a vacation. Far from it — pregnancy is actually one of the most stressful periods in any woman’s life.
What’s on the plate of a mommy-to-be? Doctor’s appointments, all-day sickness, and possibly another kid or two in need of attention. And that’s in addition to a career, chores, and figuring out where the new kid is going to sleep once they arrive.
Fortunately, Thai massage can alleviate the stress experienced during this trying time by releasing feel-good chemicals, easing muscle tension, and inducing a sense of relaxation.
Pain Relief
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A woman’s body goes through a whole bunch of changes during pregnancy, and all that growing and stretching can be painful. Back, hip, and leg soreness are common, not to mention upset stomachs.
One of the most effective methods of back pain relief is massage, and today’s research gives credence to the amount of relief this approach can provide. Even leg and ankle pain can be alleviated through massage, according to Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals.
Hormone Regulation
Pregnancy induces a lot of joy, but also a lot of hormones. The overwhelming love that women feel for their not-yet-born babies is wonderful, but mood changes and sleep disruption are less so. Thankfully, relief is in sight. Research in the International Journal of Neuroscience finds that massage regulates hormones and neurotransmitters during pregnancy.
The bottom line? Pregnant women can rejoice now that massage is has been proven beneficial for themselves and for their babies. Armed with volumes of research, they can defend their choice to schedule a massage.
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