- Prenatal massage can be a significant way for an expectant mother to relax, improve overall wellness and decrease back pain that is a common complaint of pregnancy. With so many changes taking place in such a short period of time over three trimesters, massage can help a pregnant woman stay in touch with her rapidly growing body.
- The effects of prenatal massage are well-documented and most doctors encourage their patients to get regular sessions. According to "Mother Massage" by Elaine Stillerman some of these effects include stabilizing hormone production, increase in overall circulation of the body, relieve muscular strain in the low back, and keep the body free from excess tension.
- Special considerations have to be made in positioning a pregnant client during prenatal massage. After the first trimester, lying face down is usually too uncomfortable. Lying face up is not recommended after the first trimester because of the decrease in circulation from the weight of the growing uterus. Many prenatal massage therapists use large bolsters or pillows to allow a pregnant client to lay comfortably on their side.
- It is a common misconception that having a massage, especially a foot massage, can trigger labor. The truth is that there are certain acupressure points in the ankles that can stimulate contractions of the uterus but it is generally accepted that it takes prolonged pressure on these points to have a noticeable effect. These would not be worked during a normal prenatal massage session.
- Labor pain is a common complaint of pregnant women and massage is an effective comfort technique. In fact one study showed showed that massage during labor not only decreased the length of the labor, but also lessened the need for medication. (Field, T. et al. 1997)
