Pregnancy can be a wonderful time in a woman's life, but it can also come with its own set of physical discomforts and emotional stresses. Many expectant mothers turn to massage therapy as a safe and effective way to alleviate some of these issues. However, pregnancy massage is different from regular massage in several ways. In this blog post, we'll explore what pregnancy massage is and how it differs from regular massage.
What is Pregnancy Massage?
Pregnancy massage, also known as prenatal massage, is a type of massage therapy specifically designed for pregnant women. It is a hands-on therapy that aims to alleviate physical discomforts and emotional stresses associated with pregnancy. A trained therapist uses various techniques and strokes to address common pregnancy-related issues, such as back pain, swelling, headaches, and anxiety.
How is Pregnancy Massage Different from Regular Massage?
While pregnancy massage shares many similarities with regular massage, there are some key differences. Here are some ways in which pregnancy massage differs from regular massage:
Positioning: Pregnant women cannot lie face down on a traditional massage table due to the pressure on their abdomen. Instead, they typically lie on their side or are positioned with pillows to support their back and belly. This ensures comfort and safety for both the mother and the baby.
Techniques: Massage therapists who specialize in prenatal massage are trained to use techniques that are safe and appropriate for pregnant women. This means avoiding certain areas of the body, such as the abdomen and lower back, and using lighter pressure than in a regular massage.
Focus Areas: Pregnancy massage focuses on areas of the body that tend to experience more strain during pregnancy, such as the lower back, hips, and legs. The therapist may also work on the neck and shoulders to relieve tension caused by postural changes.
Contraindications: Pregnancy massage has certain contraindications that do not apply to regular massage. For example, deep tissue massage and certain acupressure points should be avoided during pregnancy. It's important to discuss any concerns or medical conditions with your therapist before starting a prenatal massage session.
In conclusion, pregnancy massage is a type of massage therapy specifically designed for pregnant women. It differs from regular massage in terms of positioning, techniques, focus areas, and contraindications. By choosing a qualified massage therapist who specializes in prenatal massage, expectant mothers can safely and effectively alleviate physical discomforts and emotional stresses associated with pregnancy.
To book your Pregnancy Massage either give us a call on 0161 4785412 or book online!