Prenatal Massage
There’s nothing like a soothing massage (ahh…) to rub away the pains and strains of pregnancy.
Anyone who’s ever had a professional massage knows that both body and mind feel better afterwards — and the same goes for prenatal massage, which can feel extra wonderful when extra weight and changes in posture stir up new aches and pains.
Are Massages During Pregnancy Safe?
Maternal massages are considered safe as long as get the green light from you doctor and you let your massage therapist know you’re pregnant.
After your initial consultation with your therapist, you will be situated in the best position ensuring optimal comfort for you and your bundle of joy. All of out Taime Out therapist have over 3 years of prenatal training so you can rest assured you’re in the hands of someone who knows how to safely relieve your prenatal pain and pressure related to your changing anatomy.
Benefits of Prenatal Massage
Massages during your pregnancy can reduce stress hormones in your body and relax and loosen your muscles. It can also increase blood flow, which is so important when you’re pregnant, and keep your lymphatic system working at peak efficiency, flushing out toxins from your body.
Prenatal massage reconnects your mind with your body, not only help you relax physically but offering mental peace as well. Other benefits include relieving insomnia, joint pain, neck and back pain, leg cramping and sciatica. Additionally, it can reduce swelling in your hands and feet (as long as that swelling isn’t a result of preeclampsia), relieve carpal tunnel pain, and alleviate headaches and sinus congestion — all common pregnancy problems. Studies have also shown clients that receive prenatal massages have less intense labor contractions, more speedy deliveries, and heal after delivery faster.
How Prenatal Massage Differs from Regular Massage
Prenatal massages are adapted for the anatomical changes you go through 
during pregnancy. In a traditional massage, you might spend half the time lying face-down on your stomach (which is uncomfortable with a baby belly) and half the time facing up (a position that puts pressure on a major blood vessel that can disrupt blood flow to your baby and leave you feeling nauseous).
But as your shape and posture changes, your trained Taime Out massage therapist will make accommodations with special cushioning systems or holes that allow you to lay safely, while providing room for your growing belly and breasts.
And don’t expect deep tissue work on your legs during a prenatal massage. While gentle pressure is safe (and can feel heavenly!), pregnant women are particularly susceptible to blood clots, which deep massage work can dislodge. That, in turn, can be risky. On other body parts, the pressure can be firm and as deep or as gentle as you’d like. Always communicate with your therapist about what feels good — and if something starts to hurt. Book a relaxing prenatal session today.
