Many women who are pregnant have lower back pain; this is especially true as she approaches the end of her pregnancy. In fact, many women can not sleep well because this back pain is so uncomfortable, but fortunately, this uncomfortable feeling and pain can be alleviated by using massage techniques. During the woman's first trimester of pregnancy, a massage therapist will need to be extremely careful when administering massage to the woman's lower back and only a very gentle touch should be used, however, as the pregnancy continues, and especially in the later part of the pregnancy, lower back massages can provide enormous relief from the numerous aches and pains common at this point in the pregnancy.
A pregnancy massage is able to help alleviate a wide array of problems, from the physical aches to emotional issues. Mood fluctuations are a common occurrence during pregnancy. Also, many women find that it can be difficult to relax as their growing baby gets bigger, and these women also begin to get worried about the labor process or even scared of the imminent birthing process. A relaxing massage can help to relieve stress, balance the emotions and even help the expectant woman get some much needed sleep.
From ankles that are swollen to poor posture due to muscle cramps and back pain, being pregnant can be very uncomfortable at times. Pregnancy massage can provide a great relief for tension, cramps, spasms and pain. Leg massages help improve circulation while stimulating the lymph system, which will then help reduce the swelling of the legs.
If you have thought about having an antenatal massage, it will be extremely important that you find a therapist who you are comfortable with as well as one who has been trained in administering prenatal massage. You should never feel uncomfortable asking your massage therapist questions about their training or experience. Safety should always be your primary concern, and you need to have complete trust in your massage therapist so that you can fully relax during your treatment.
How does pre-natal massage work in practice? In the beginning, you are probably able to lie on a normal massage couch on your back or even on your belly, as long as you are supported by cushions that can shift position if you need to. As your pregnancy advances, some creative movements are needed, as you cannot lie on your belly any more and lying on your back for too long is not comfortable or recommended. You may be able to lie on your side on the couch, with cushions for support, although some women prefer sitting on a stool while the masseuse stands or kneels behind the woman's back.
Pregnancy massage is typically considered safe, although there are some precautions one should take. Any massage done over the belly should be extremely light and maybe not performed at all when the woman is still in her first trimester, this is especially true if she has a history of miscarriages or if the pregnant woman is at all uncomfortable with the procedure. However, in the later months, using gentle massage strokes on the belly can be extremely helpful. Sometimes the unborn baby will react to these movements and if baby is active and kicking a great deal, it can provide a calming effect.
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