Pregnancy Massage

What is pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy massage (or prenatal massage) is a type of massage therapy that has been specially designed with the needs of pregnant women in mind.

It typically combines remedial massage and Swedish massage relaxation techniques.

Who can benefit from pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy massage can have a number of benefits for pregnant women. However, it is not always appropriate for the needs of every woman, or every pregnancy.

Because of this, you should always consult with your doctor to ensure that pregnancy massage is safe for your individual health and condition before seeking treatment.

What does pregnancy massage involve?

Your pregnancy massage therapist will start your treatment by asking you a few questions about your pregnancy. These will usually consist of a basic health history, including how far into your pregnancy you are and what health issues you are currently experiencing.

Ideally, your massage therapist should be able to access as much of your skin as possible to be able to provide you with the maximum possible benefit throughout the massage. If you feel comfortable, you will be asked to undress, and a towel will be used to protect your modesty. However, if you’d rather, you may remain partially clothed.

One of the main differences between pregnancy massages and other types of massages is that they are a lot gentler. Usually, a mix of remedial massage and Swedish massage relaxation techniques will be used.

The positions used during pregnancy massage can also differ from those used normally. For example, it is not advised to lay flat on your back during the later stages of pregnancy, so pillows or a specialised massage table may be used to elevate you.

What are the benefits of pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy massage can have several benefits for expecting women. These include that it:

  • Provides pain relief as the body changes during pregnancy
  • Alleviates many of pregnancy’s aches and pains
  • Promotes better quality sleep
  • Improves circulation and lymphatic drainage, and decreases swelling
  • Reduces muscular tension 
  • Improves posture 
  • Minimises fatigue 
  • Reduces stress and promotes relaxation 
  • Reduces anxiety and depression 
  • Increases overall sense of wellbeing and “feel good” emotions 
  • Lowers the risk of premature delivery 

How can I get started with pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy massage is just one of the types of massage we offer at Chiro & Integrative Therapies. We are based in Mudgeeraba on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia.

To find out more about pregnancy massage, give us a call today on (07) 5607 0161.

FAQs

Is pregnancy massage covered by my health fund?

Some private health funds cover pregnancy massage. However, what is and isn’t covered can vary between different insurers and coverage plans. To find out if your private health fund covers this type of therapy, check with your insurer directly.

What should I be looking for in a pregnancy massage therapist?

When choosing a pregnancy massage therapist, it is important that you choose one who is experienced in prenatal massage techniques. 

This will ensure that they are able to maximise your comfort during the treatment, tailor the massage to be safe for you and your pregnancy, and avoid certain pressure points or areas of the body that should not be massaged during pregnancy.

Is pregnancy massage safe?

Pregnancy massage can be very safe. A qualified and experienced pregnancy massage therapist will be very familiar with the techniques and positions necessary to make your massage as safe as it can possibly be for you and your baby.

Although it can have a number of benefits for pregnant women, this type of complementary therapy is not always appropriate for the needs of every woman, or every pregnancy. For example, many doctors do not recommend it in the first trimester, because the cause of miscarriage is highest in this period. 

It also may not be suitable for you if you have a high-risk pregnancy, high blood pressure, bleeding, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, or other pregnancy-related health issues.

Because of this, you should always consult with your doctor to ensure that prenatal massage is safe for your individual health and condition before seeking treatment.