Massage during pregnancy promotes a healthy mother and baby prenatal experience. The pregnant body endures rapid changes that can put excessive stress on every system of the body, especially the muscles, ligaments and joints. A certified prenatal massage therapist is trained in the mechanics of birth and focuses each session on preparing the body for birth. A specialized body cushion allows mom to comfortably enjoy this session while laying on her stomach, with no risk of harm to her or the baby. Specific massage techniques are applied to help reduce fatigue and spasms in the muscles, strain on the ligaments and joints in the neck, back and hips in preparation for birth. Prenatal massage reduces inflammation and edema in the body, especially the legs and ankles. Mom is pampered and nurtured during each session. Tara gives a truly unique prenatal massage.

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What Are The Benefits Of Prenatal Massage?
While relieving the normal discomforts experienced during pregnancy, such as backaches, stiff neck, leg cramps, headaches, joint
pain, and edema, massage therapy is a wonderful, complimentary choice for prenatal care and a healthy way to reduce stress and promote general well-being. Nurtuing massage during pregnancy helps promote a healthy mommy baby bond that will carry over into life with your baby.

In addition, by relaxing nervous tension, you can experience a better night's sleep. Below are examples of how massage can help you throughout your pregnancy.

Second Trimester Benefits:
• Alleviate backaches
• Relieve leg cramps
• Eliminates Headaches
• Helps with Sinus Issues
• Relieve sciatic nerve pain
• Reduces muscle fatigue
• Supports your immune system

Third Trimester:
• Reduce swelling/edema
• Relieve pain from varicosities
• Enhance sleep
• Improves your energy
• Prepare pelvic muscles for birth process
• Encourages proper alignment of pelvis in preparation for birth

Does Prenatal massage help me go into labor?
Unfortunately, there is no magic spot to rub that will induce labor. Your body will go into labor when all components are in place; hormones, baby's position, pelvic readiness, consistent contractions, and dilation of the cervix. However, women who receive regular massage therapy throughout their pregnancy and during the last 6 weeks of their pregnancy have been known to have very positive birth experiences. The common factor is that their body was ready for birth, therefore labor began when it was supposed to.

Are There Times When Massage During Pregnancy Should Be Avoided?
It is very important you obtain approval from your obstetrician before receiving any form of massage during pregnancy. Women with normal, low-risk pregnancies can benefit greatly from massage. However, women in high-risk pregnancies should consult with their doctor or midwife before beginning one of our massage therapy programs. If at any time during the massage you experience discomfort, tell your therapist immediately. When available, find a therapist that is a specialist in Prenatal massage and has experience with childbirth. Tara and Ginny are both specialists in Prenatal massage and have extensive knowledge of childbirth.

(Information courtesy of Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals consumer education services.)