Pregnancy is a remarkable journey filled with joy, anticipation, and, at times, physical discomfort. Our Remedial massage therapists and Clinical Osteopaths have had the privilege of working with many expectant mothers to provide relief and support during this special time. One of the most effective and nurturing ways to address the physical challenges of pregnancy is through pregnancy massage or osteopath treatments. In this blog, we will share the blissful benefits of pregnancy treatment from a therapist’s perspective, discussing how it can help mums-to-be navigate this beautiful but often challenging experience.
Pregnancy massage and osteopathic treatment, is a specialised form of therapeutic treatment, tailored specifically for pregnant women. It focuses on addressing the unique physical and emotional changes that occur during pregnancy.
Here’s a closer look at why pregnancy massage and osteopathic treatment is so beneficial:
- Relieves Muscular Tension
Pregnancy brings about an array of physical changes, including weight gain, a shifting centre of gravity, and hormonal fluctuations. These changes can lead to muscle tension and discomfort, especially in the lower back, hips, and legs. Our skilled therapists can target these areas, using gentle techniques to release tension and alleviate pain.
- Improves Circulation
During pregnancy, a woman’s blood volume increases significantly to support the growing foetus. This can put added pressure on the circulatory system, leading to issues like swollen ankles and varicose veins. Pregnancy massage & osteopathic treatment helps enhance blood circulation, reducing swelling and promoting overall well-being.
- Eases Stress and Anxiety
The emotional journey of pregnancy can be as challenging as the physical one. Hormonal changes, sleep disturbances, and concerns about the upcoming birth can contribute to elevated stress and anxiety. A soothing pregnancy massage or gentle osteopathic treatment can promote relaxation and reduce stress by triggering the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones.
- Promotes Better Sleep
Many expectant mothers often struggle with sleep, whether it’s due to physical discomfort or racing thoughts. Pregnancy massage & osteopathic treatment can help improve sleep patterns by relaxing tense muscles and calming the mind. Improved sleep quality is crucial for the overall well-being of both mother and baby.
- Supports the Immune System
Maintaining a strong immune system is essential during pregnancy. Regular massage or osteopathic treatment sessions can enhance immune function by reducing the stress hormone cortisol .. Did you know that an increase of stress levels in the human body can negatively affect the body’s immune function.
- Enhances Posture and Body Awareness
As the baby grows, a woman’s posture naturally changes to accommodate the added weight gain. This can lead to poor posture and altered body alignment. This can in turn, cause back pain and discomfort. Our pregnancy massage & osteopathic practitioners can provide postural education and rehabilitation exercises to address muscle imbalances and improve body awareness.
- Preparing for Labour
Pregnancy massage & osteopathic treatments can also prepare the body for labour and delivery. Our therapists can employ techniques that focus on the pelvic area, helping to relax and prepare the muscles and ligaments for childbirth. Some women find this preparation can lead to a smoother labour experience. Osteopaths can incorporate other manual therapy options to treat pregnant clients that can assist in the preparation for labour. Such as rehabilitation exercise prescription, education and advice on altering activities of every day living.
- Emotional Connection
Booking in regular massage and osteopathic treatment sessions throughout your pregnancy journey is an excellent tool for mothers-to-be to stay connected with their ever changing bodies and their growing babies. Many women find that taking the time for self-care helps them develop a deeper emotional bond with their bodies and babies during their pregnancy journey.
Safety Considerations
It’s essential to choose a massage therapist who is trained and experienced in prenatal massage. There are some safety considerations to keep in mind:
- Timing: Most therapists recommend waiting until the second trimester before getting a pregnancy massage, but it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new wellness routine during pregnancy.
- Positioning: Our skilled therapists can use a specialised pregnancy cushion to ensure our clients are comfortable and supported in a face down, side-lying or semi-reclined position. The use of our specialised pregnancy pillow is great in achieving a safe and comfortable position to support the chest and abdomen. This careful consideration of positioning makes the entire pregnancy massage treatment experience both enjoyable and safe for expectant mothers.
- Women whose pregnancies are low/high risk due to any existing or preexisting conditions/complications can only seek massage and osteopathic care after seeking consultation with their OBGYN.
- This can dictate the positioning during your treatment consultation which can change from treatment to treatment.
- Communication: Open and honest communication with your therapist is crucial. Inform them of any medical conditions, discomforts, or concerns you may have during your session.
Pregnancy massage and osteopathic treatment is not just a luxury but a valuable tool for expectant mothers to navigate the physical and emotional changes to their body. Our health experts have witnessed the transformative effects of pregnancy massage and osteopathic treatments firsthand. They can help provide relief, relaxation, and a deeper connection to the miracle of life growing within. If you’re pregnant, be sure to seek out our qualified pregnancy massage and osteopathic practitioners, who can greatly help your pregnancy experience. It’s a beautiful way to support your well-being and cherish this extraordinary time in your life.
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