by True North Massage therapist, Sheila Resari
“To nurture the birth of a mother and of her baby with skilled touch is one of the most intellectually challenging, emotionally and physically demanding, humbling, inspiring, and life-enhancing experiences that a somatic practitioner can engage in.”
~ Carole Osborne, author of Pre- and Perinatal Massage Therapy
Is this a belly massage?
“Actually, in the first trimester, I avoid working on the pregnant abdomen for safety to the growing baby. In any case, the primary areas where most women want and need massage are the low back, shoulders, and legs — the places that become tense and sore with a changing, growing body.”
Do you use a table or cushion with cutouts for my belly?
“I don’t recommend lying face down, or prone, for pregnant clients once the belly protrudes beyond the support of the hip bones. Rather than increasing the pressure within the uterus or straining the uterine ligaments, I prefer to get my clients pillowed into a side-lying or semi-reclined position, where both mom and baby are supported in comfort and safety. Clients who may be uncomfortable in their own beds are surprised by how at ease they feel on the table”
Is massage safe for all pregnancies?
“Some health conditions require medical clearance before proceeding with massage. To find out more, give me a call to see what might fall under the category of high risk.”
Is deep tissue work safe during pregnancy?
“I take utmost care is to avoid the caution areas for pregnant clients. Sometimes that means using broader pressure, or lighter pressure. Careful application of deep tissue massage is still safe in many areas of the body, including the shoulders, upper chest, back, glutes, outer legs, and feet.”
How often should I receive massage while I am pregnant?
“Every woman and every pregnancy is different. In general, if you’ve decided to make massage a part of your prenatal care, I suggest coming in once a month during your first trimester, and twice a month during your second and third. To alleviate more intense pain or discomfort, you may want to schedule a weekly session for the last trimester, or extend your session to 90 minutes. Receiving massage in the weeks following your birth will help facilitate your recovery as well.”
What are the benefits of massage during pregnancy?
“Prenatal bodywork helps reduce stress, promote relaxation, reduce edema and blood pressure, relieve varicose veins, and increase blood and lymph circulation. It reduces musculoskeletal pain and strain and improves your body awareness as you prepare for birth. Pregnancy massage can contribute to a shorter, less painful labor, with fewer complications and a lower rate of prematurity. Take care of yourself and your baby!”
What does it mean to specialize in prenatal massage?
“Many massage schools teach their students basic guidelines for working with pregnant clients. As a therapist with a special focus on prenatal massage, I have added additional training that goes far beyond the basics in order to address the specific needs of pregnant women, safely and effectively. My certification through Carole Osborne’s Body Therapy Associates delved into the physiological, emotional, and structural changes of pregnancy; the possible complications and risks; and the techniques developed especially to help alleviate your physical and emotional stresses.”
“Massage is a supportive addition to, not a replacement for, the regular prenatal care from your midwife or physician.”
Do you have a question about pregnancy massage? Ask it below!
