Postnatal & Prenatal Massage - Pregnancy Relief For Richmond Mothers
Whether you're expecting a baby or recovering from a recent pregnancy, research has shown that postnatal and prenatal massage therapy can have a big effect on your overall experience. Many of our Richmond area prenatal massage clients are referred by their doctors because pregnancy massage has been proven to be beneficial throughout pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period.
The American Pregnancy Association recommends prenatal massage therapy for improved labor outcomes and newborn health. The association also considers postnatal massage as an important step in the recovery process for new mothers due to benefits like hormone regulation, reduced swelling, better sleep, and improved breastfeeding.
It's important to choose a prenatal massage therapist who has experience in the field and understands the cautions and contraindications associated with the modality. You should also check with your doctor before beginning any prenatal or postnatal massage therapy to ensure that it's the right choice for you.
Prenatal Massage Provides Pregnancy Relief
When you're expecting a baby, your body is going through so many changes. While some are exciting and magical, others can take their toll on your physical and mental well-being. Prenatal massage not only provides a feeling of being pampered and cared for, but it can also deliver several therapeutic benefits:
- Pain relief - helps with back and leg pain, sciatic nerve pain, and other aches and pains
- Improved mood - reduces anxiety and depression and increases endorphins, oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine levels
- Improved sleep quality - helps with insomnia and reduces discomfort that can disrupt sleep
- Improved placental health - decreases cortisol and norepinephrine levels
- Labor and birth preparation - prenatal massage can potentially lead to shorter labor and less need for medication
In general, women can begin massage therapy at any point during their pregnancy, but it's important to discuss with your Richmond massage therapist and your doctor to ensure a healthy experience.
Postnatal Massage Aids In Recovery
Postnatal massage therapy is most effective within the first twelve weeks of the postpartum period and can begin immediately after birth as long as the delivery is without complications. A few of the many physical and emotional benefits that a postnatal massage offers include:
- Tension relief - relieves muscle tension in the hips, back, and shoulders while reducing pain in the lower back and perineum
- Improves circulation - helps the body lose excess water weight, decreasing associated swelling, and speeding up healing
- Balances hormones - stimulates the release of oxytocin, which can promote bonding with the baby and improve lactation
- Mood enhancement - helps with feelings of stress, anxiety, and baby blues by calming the mind and uplifting moods
- Breastfeeding help - relaxes the body and relieves breast pain for a better breastfeeding experience
- Can promote c-section scar healing and reduce the appearance of scars
Your body undergoes so many changes during pregnancy like unstable or hyper joints, posture issues, scar tissue, and back and shoulder pain. Taking care of yourself is essential to your well-being and will allow you to take better care of your baby. Postpartum massage is a great way to refresh, rejuvenate, and realign your body and spirit to your new role as a mother. Ask your Richmond area OB/GYN or midwife if prenatal and postnatal massage therapy may be right for you.
If you're looking for an experienced postnatal and prenatal massage therapist in the Richmond area who offers a healing touch, call Nirvana Bodywork today at 804-937-9830 to book an appointment.
Indulge in Tranquility With Our Massage Services in Richmond