Pregnancy Massage & Post Natal
Congratulations mummy-to-be!
This is such a special time of your life!
But it can also be physically exhausting on your body. Massage during pregnancy can ease anti-natal anxieties and prepare you physically and mentally for a positive child-birth experience.
The Pregnancy massage I offer is unique to your particular needs, aches and pains; which we will discuss in a thorough consultation. I would advise that you have regular massages throughout your pregnancy to prevent aches and pains, rather than leave it too late.
Massage is good for the baby too! Research has shown that massage has an indirect relaxing effect on the baby because the mother releases Oxytocin and Prolactin as a result of skin stimulation. Generally the more relaxed the mother feels during pregnancy, the more relaxed her pregnancy and birth are likely to be.
What to expect
You will be sent a Consultation form via email before the appointment to establish any contraindications. If you have any high risk conditions, I’m sorry but I cannot treat you whilst pregnant.
As well as the consultation form, before the massage begins I will perform two simple, painless tests on your legs to ensure you are safe for massage:
1. Circulatory issues or DVT
2. Pitting Oedema
You will be massaged on a professional hydrolic massage couch with pregnancy pillows to support your belly, back and neck. There are many different positions we can use so I can access the right body parts. We will work together to achieve a truly relaxing massage.
Pregnancy Massage does not use deep-tissue methods or trigger-point relief. This is potentially dangerous for your pregnancy and I will refuse to do this on any pregnant client. Instead medium pressure strokes will be used to help the flow of lymphatic drainage. This is why it is recommended to be massaged throughout pregnancy before aches and pains get too bad!
You will be asked to undress to your pants. I will leave the room unless you require assistance. I know it can get a little tricky towards the end! Modesty will be kept as much as possible throughout, using towels and or sheets.
Why it’s important to see a trained Pregnancy Massage Therapist
There are certain acupuncture or trigger points around the body which may have a cleansing effect on the body and therefore should be avoided during pregnancy.
I have been trained to a high professional standard and have a thorough understanding of the safety measures and contraindications to ensure that your baby's health is not compromised.
Due to my safe approach, my clients have faith in my abilities and return to me for regular massages throughout their pregnancy and beyond.
Post Natal Massage
Massage can be very beneficial after your birth to help with recovery both physically & mentally. Birth can take its toll on the muscles of the lower back, buttocks and thighs. Many women feel bruised and sore after giving birth so massage can help relieve tension. It can also promote lymphatic drainage and help improve cellulite that can build up over the pregnancy.
If you are breast-feeding, it can take the body a while to adjust to new repetitive posture movements which can make you feel tense. Also picking the baby up from the cot can take its toll on the back.
The Massage will be tailor made to you, taking in consideration your birth e.g. if you had a caesarean, epidural, or currently breast feeding. Specialist equipment is used to avoid pressure on the stomach and breasts.