Prenatal Massage
Prenatal massage provides expectant mothers with relief from many of the physical discomforts often associated with pregnancy. Recent Studies have shown that prenatal massage therapy can reduce anxiety, relieve muscle aches, reduce joint pain, decrease symptoms of depression, and improve labor outcomes and the health of the newborn baby. Prenatal massage involves gentle touch therapy that targets areas where pain may occur due to reduced circulation, nerve pain and fluid collection. Besides offering relief from these conditions, prenatal massage reduces stress and increases the expectant mother’s feelings of calmness and well being.
Improved Hormone Regulation
Studies done over the past twelve years have shown that when massage therapy was introduced into a woman’s prenatal care regimen, hormone levels associated with stress and relaxation are significantly altered for the better. In one study, after only five weeks of bi-weekly massage the “stress hormones” such as cortisol and norepinephrine were reduced. In addition, the levels of dopamine and serotonin increased, which may reduce the chances of significant depression. These hormone level changes also led to both fewer birth complications and newborn complications such as low birth weight.
Other possible benefits of prenatal massage:
Improved Hormone Regulation
Studies done over the past twelve years have shown that when massage therapy was introduced into a woman’s prenatal care regimen, hormone levels associated with stress and relaxation are significantly altered for the better. In one study, after only five weeks of bi-weekly massage the “stress hormones” such as cortisol and norepinephrine were reduced. In addition, the levels of dopamine and serotonin increased, which may reduce the chances of significant depression. These hormone level changes also led to both fewer birth complications and newborn complications such as low birth weight.
Other possible benefits of prenatal massage:
- Reduced tension and tension headaches
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Reduced edema (swelling)
- Improved circulation
- Reduced back strain and pain
- Reduced joint pain
- Better sleep
- Better muscle and soft tissue oxygenation
Disclaimer: The information presented in this site is not medical advice and must not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. Information received from Touch for Life Massage is for educational purposes only.