How Prenatal Massage Supports Pregnancy Wellness: 5 Key Benefits

Therapeutic massage has been used to enhance overall health for centuries. Ancient civilizations across the globe utilized massage as a healing and relaxation practice. Therapeutic massage techniques have been shown to have positive effects on all systems of the body, including the muscular, circulatory, and skeletal systems. When included in the prenatal care plan of expecting mothers, massage sessions can be customized to help relieve many of the common discomforts associated with pregnancy. 

Some of the top benefits of prenatal therapeutic massage include: 

1. Hormonal Effects

Massage therapy affects the release of certain hormones in the body that respond to stress and relaxation. Studies have shown that during and after a massage session, stress hormones are reduced and relaxation hormones are increased. Receiving a massage positively impacts emotional and mental health, and can help recipients feel nurtured, calm and safe. These benefits can lead to fewer complications during pregnancy and birth, and fewer instances of newborn complications.

2. Reduced Swelling

Circulation changes occur during pregnancy and swelling is common due to the increased pressure of the uterus on major blood vessels. Massage therapy helps to locally and systemically aid circulation. By stimulating the soft tissue structures of the body, the movement of massage helps to reduce the collection of fluid in swollen joints.

3. Less Aches & Pains

Soreness and achiness seem to increase as pregnancy develops into the later months. This is usually because of the increased pressure of the growing baby in the abdomen, causing postural imbalances and tense muscles. Swelling can also put pressure on nerves and cause discomfort. Massage therapy addresses these issues by reducing muscle tension, increasing mobility and improving circulation. For example, a prenatal massage session including assisted on-table stretching for the legs and hips can be helpful for relieving pain associated with the sciatic nerve. 

4. More Restful Sleep

With reduced stress, less swelling, and the body feeling more at ease, many pregnant women experience an improvement in the quality of their sleep after a prenatal massage. The soft tissue structures and muscles experience a boost of oxygenated blood during a massage which helps promote an overall sense of ease. The lymphatic system also benefits from these changes in circulation, which helps to keep the body healthy and supports a strong immune system. Getting better sleep and sleeping for longer periods after a massage helps support overall health and a happy, healthy pregnancy.

5. Encouraging Labor

Finally, when expecting moms reach the end of their prenatal journey in gestational weeks 38 through 40+, all of the benefits of therapeutic massage mentioned above can help encourage the body to go into labor! There are specific "induction" points that therapists can apply pressure to with the intention of encouraging natural labor. These points are known to help send signals to the body that say "it's time to get ready to have this baby!" More verifiable are the many positive effects on hormonal communication, circulation, stress and pain reduction, and sleep improvement that can all help encourage the body to begin labor naturally.

Check with your prenatal healthcare provider to ask if massage therapy is recommended for you. As always, verify that your licensed or certified massage therapist is knowledgeable about prenatal massage or specifically certified to work with prenatal clients. 

To connect with me, call or text:

Amanda Bollinger, NC-LMBT 

(336) 528-7835 

North Carolina Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapist since 2014

www.facebook.com/massagerocknc

Amanda offers prenatal massage therapy in the Greensboro, Kernersville, High Point, and Winston-Salem areas of North Carolina.