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What To Expect During Prenatal Massage
 

Prenatal massages are designed specifically with the mother's needs in mind. Not only do they help relieve aches and pains, but they provide relaxation techniques that promote deep breathing, reduce stress levels, decrease fatigue, and improve circulation. A prenatal massage can also prepare you mentally by easing anxiety or fear about labor pain or delivery complications as well as postpartum depression. If you're feeling any of these symptoms or want to learn more about how prenatal massage can help keep both you and your baby happy and healthy please read on.

What To Expect During Prenatal Massage

Pregnant women have been receiving prenatal massages for centuries because it helps them feel better during a time when many experience discomfort. Also, during pregnancy, pregnant women should not lay flat on their backs for a prolonged time as this can decrease blood flow from the uterus to the placenta. Pregnancy pillows are usually used during Prenatal Massage, so ask your therapist if you need one or two depending on where they will be working. Below are some of the things you expect during Prenatal Massage:
 

The Position During Prenatal Massage
 

The position will be on your side or in a semi-reclined position on your back with pillows supporting the upper arm and head. Pregnant women should not be on their stomachs due to counter pressure over the abdomen causing a decrease in blood flow which could lead to decreased oxygen supply for mother and baby.
 

Neck and shoulder massage is a safe sitting-up option for pregnant women. It has been shown to help with quick weight loss, more efficient use of energy during pregnancy as well as decreasing odds that you'll experience back pain after giving birth. There may be some tenderness after Prenatal Massage, but this is normal and should subside within 24-48 hours. You can expect to feel tired due to relaxation.
 

Therapist's Pressure During a Prenatal Massage
 

A Prenatal massage therapist will most likely use light pressure but can adjust based on your needs. Pregnant women may experience discomfort if they are massaged too deeply so make sure to communicate with your Prenatal Massage therapist about what is feeling comfortable and any areas of concern. Your Prenatal Massage therapist should never do it.
 

The Prenatal Massage therapist should be knowledgeable about the different stages of pregnancy and what to expect during each stage. Pregnant women can experience pain in their lower back, hips, shoulders, legs, arms, and hands due to the extra weight they are carrying which all adds up for increased discomfort.
 

Prenatal Massage Duration in Every Session
 

Prenatal Massage usually lasts 30-45 minutes in each session. Pregnant women do not need to undress for Prenatal massage, wear comfortable clothes that are easy to remove or adjust with extra support, and can be worn during the Pregnancy Pillow Session.
 

A prenatal massage is a relaxing and soothing experience for pregnant women. The clothes to wear, the position during your massage session, and how hard or soft the therapist presses on you will all depend on what you prefer. We'd love it if you contact us today with any questions about a pregnancy massage.

Massage therapist - The Sanctuary Pleasant Hill LLC 609 Gregory Ln Suite #220 Pleasant Hil

By Danstone360 - Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4760106

Are You Pregnant and Searching for a Certified Massage Therapist You Can Trust?
 

The Sanctuary Pleasant Hill LLC features a full range of services that are done using touch-based therapy. Our skilled therapists use their hands to manipulate the soft tissues of your body to relieve pain, improve health conditions, and promote wellness through holistic treatments like massage therapy! Located in the beautiful Contra Costa area, The Sanctuary is a Holistic Healing Center that specializes in exceptional treatments, especially for expectant moms! We aim to nurture and relax each of our guests with individualized and innovative therapeutic techniques. We provide a quiet restful space to help you escape from stress and invigorate your spirit. The choice of how to move forward on your journey is a personal decision, honored without judgment. Start your journey with us today, click here to schedule your appointment!

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