Pregnancy and After Delivery Massage

With Pregnancy Massage Therapy it is important that the client is in a body position that is comfortable. Most women are fine on their tummy but as the months pass, when that position becomes uncomfortable due to the size of the pregnant belly, other positions are used. This is a very individual decision, because when the belly reaches certain sizes varies a great deal. 

A pregnant woman shouldn’t lie flat on her back for a massage because the now-large and heavy uterus can compress the inferior vena cava, impeding optimum blood flow.

It might be that a couple of extra pillows make a position comfortable for massage. For others sitting in a massage chair can work, until the belly becomes too large for that to be a viable option. 

The majority of women find the position they sleep in comfortable - lying in a side position hugging a pillow or having a pillow between the legs can work well. Neck and shoulder massages are done from a side position or sitting position.

Lying on the left side is best, because the heart doesn’t have to work as hard to do its job.

After Delivery Massage Therapy can begin after consultation with your physician establishes that it is okay to begin massage therapy. 

Anticipated benefits include hormone regulation, improved sleep, lessened anxiety and depression, improved milk production and reduction of swelling.

Duration of Pregnancy and After Delivery Massage Treatments can be 30, 45, or 60 minutes depending on client’s wishes. The longer the session, the more areas can be worked on.