Pregnancy massage uses the principals based on relaxation/Swedish massage, using long, slow relaxing movements to reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage.
Body position during pre natal massage is very important to maximise the benefits of the treatment. Many health professionals recommend a side lying position.
Benefits of ante natal massage include reduction of stress hormones and can increase energy levels because it gives pregnant women a chance to rest and relax. It relieves the every day discomforts of pregnancy such as sciatic pain, heaviness in the pelvic bones, leg cramps and swelling of the hands and feet.
When not to have a Pregnancy Massage
> If you have pregnancy induced hypertension (high blood pressure)
> If you feel the massage therapist is not qualified or is too vigorous
> If you have pre eclampsia, sudden fluid retention or severe headache.
> If you in a high risk pregnancy category or have previously had a premature labour.
