Pregnancy and Postnatal Massage: Nurturing the Journey into Motherhood
Pregnancy and Postnatal Massage: Nurturing the Journey into Motherhood
Pregnancy Massage: A Gentle Embrace
Pregnancy massage, specifically tailored for expectant mums, offers a gentle and effective way to manage the unique physical challenges associated with carrying a child(s). As the body undergoes structural and hormonal shifts, musculoskeletal discomfort and tension can arise. Each treatment comes with a consultation to ensure that the treatment meets your needs at your stage in the prenatal journey. For some this may be purely relaxation, taking the time to connect and bond with their baby. For others I will work with you to help relieve the stresses and strains of the changing body.
According to studies regular massage during pregnancy can reduce back and leg pain, improve sleep and moods, and reduce stress hormones, promoting a sense of well-being for both mother and baby.
Postnatal Massage: Nurturing the New Mother
The postnatal period brings its own set of challenges as the body gradually recovers from childbirth and adapts to the demands of caring for a newborn. Postnatal massage becomes a valuable tool in supporting the physical and emotional well-being of new mothers during this transitional phase.
The first few weeks and months after childbirth can be physically demanding. The body is recovering from labour and birth, possibly via c section, there may be legacy issues from pregnancy, and that quick adjustment to a non pregnant state all contribute to the stresses on your body. Throw in the mix the strains of constantly feeding, repetitive lifting and carrying of your little one, and sleep deprivation and we can see that the postnatal period is an intense and exhausting time.
Postnatal massages are tailored to what you need at that stage in your postnatal journey. It may be complete relaxation, easing out of muscles, helping you reconnect to your body or treating your c section scar. As always a full consultation allows me to meet your requirements, including those of breast feeding ladies, who may need to adapt the lying position during massage for maximum comfort.
Precautions and Considerations
While pregnancy and postnatal massage offer a range of benefits, please note that expectant mums should wait until the second trimester before seeking prenatal massage. Individuals with high-risk pregnancies or specific medical conditions both pre and postnatally should consult their healthcare provider before scheduling a massage. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
A Journey of Self-Care
Pregnancy and postnatal massage provide much needed self-care. Beyond the physical relief they offer, they create a space for mothers to connect with their changing bodies and emotions. Nurturing touch supports and celebrates the incredible journey into motherhood and beyond.