Massage can be of enormous benefit during pregnancy, helping to soothe jangled nerves and alleviate common complaints such as backache, tension in the shoulders, and aching legs and feet. Gentle, calming strokes stimulate the circulation without placing extra strain on the heart, and can reduce blood pressure and heart- rate, helping to calm both mother and baby.
promoting relaxation and preparing the muscles for childbirth are some goals of pregnancy massage. Special massage techniques can relieve many nagging conditions associated with pregnancy, such as lower back pain, swelling of hands and feet, headaches, calf cramps, insomnia, sciatic pain and sinus congestion.
When pregnant, check with your physician before receiving massage.
Massage during childbirth is a positive way to provide reassurance. Overly tense abdominal muscles can delay childbirth, so anything you do to encourage relaxation will be beneficial. As the body relaxes, endorphins, the body's natural pain- killers, are released and stress levels drop. Massage can promote relaxation between contractions, as well as alleviate pain during labor. ALWAYS make sure that the doctor is aware of your intention to use massage during childbirth.