The Growing Popularity of Prenatal Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is one of the oldest forms of therapy, dating back to China around 2700 BC. It’s had some key moments in the US, remembered in colonial times—the 1700’s—to help with bone and muscle pain. This continued to evolve from the early 1900’s Swedish massage to a more defined shape as a solid therapy from licensed professionals used to treat muscle pain, induce relaxation and relieve stress. 

Ask a pregnant woman, when does a body experience stress that puts significant pressure on the entire body and every joint? Particularly if it’s her first pregnancy with all the unknowns, she will most likely know the answer. Right now. Prenatal massage can help. It was first described about 3000 years ago in the ancient texts of Ayurvedic medicine. Prenatal massage is now an advanced massage practice that offers mind and body support during this most important time in life.  

The benefits of prenatal massage therapy. One of the top benefits of prenatal massage is it helps to regulate the body hormones cortisol, dopamine, and serotonin. When these hormones are in balance, everyone experiences less stress and feels more relaxed, but less stress for mom means better sleep and overall health and supports a better birth weight for baby. 

Pregnancy can cause nerve pain. Nerve pain is because of pressure put on the nerves. It’s common to have sciatic nerve or low back pain during pregnancy. Massage can relieve pressure and tension in the lower back and hips around the irritated sciatic nerve. The muscles relax, relieving the stress on the tissues, increasing range of motion and decreasing pain. 

Swelling is common in pregnancy since the pressure of weight changes and shifts make it harder for blood and lymph to circulate efficiently. Gentle and skilled massage can help move fluid through the blood and lymph vessels in the body. Less swelling means less pressure on joints and tissues. This is especially beneficial to the legs, feet, and ankles. 

Precautions during pregnancy. Massage can be safe during all trimesters, but as with any medical service, and particularly during pregnancy, speak with your obstetrician or midwife before you get a massage. The therapist you choose should be trained in prenatal massage and know how to collaborate with women who are pregnant.  

Massage therapy is a wonderful way to unwind and take care of yourself or someone you care about during their pregnancy. They may find it helps them to be more comfortable and enjoy the amazing months ahead. Better sleep, less discomfort and swelling? Sounds heavenly for an expectant mother! For a gift card or an appointment at ViaroTherapeutics with a trained prenatal therapist, call 608-668-2103 or visit viarohealth.com/for-individuals/therapeutics/ 

Meagan Conrad 

Licensed Massage Therapist, ViaroTherapeutics 

For questions or comments, contact wellness@viarohealth.com