Pregnancy massage
Massage during pregnancy has significant benefits for both mother-to-be and developing baby. As you body adjusts to prepare itself for labour, massage can help alleviate aches and pains and provides invaluable time for rest and relaxation.
The benefits
Massage during pregnancy can help alleviate tension and reduce stress whilst improving circulation, in turn increasing the supply of oxygenated blood and nutrients to mother and baby.
As the baby grows in the womb, the mother’s centre of gravity gradually shifts; as the weight of baby and mother increases, added stress is placed on joints. Hormonal changes during pregnancy cause joints to loosen leading many women to experience discomfort, particularly in the lower back and pelvic regions.
Additional benefits include
· Promotes Relaxation and helps to reduce stress.
· Helps minimise back and sciatic nerve pain
· Relieves muscle aches and leg cramps
· Helps to improve circulation and relieve water retention – oedema
· Boosts energy levels
Labour
The use of massage in labour helps alleviate back pain and help to relax the mother, thereby increasing endorphin levels, the body’s natural painkillers. Massage techniques can be taught on a one-to-one basis to partners or those providing birth-support.
Postnatal
After childbirth, massage may help provide relief from aches and pains especially those commonly experienced in the back, neck and shoulders. Massage can alleviate fluid retention and promote relaxation, helping to restore a sense of well-being in the mother.
Instruction in baby massage is also offered, helping to strengthen the bond between baby and Mum.
How the massage is conducted
Massage takes place on either a purpose-made bean-bag or whilst comfortably supported in a sitting or side-lying position depending on preference. A full-body massage is typically conducted over sixty or ninety minutes, though many women prefer a concentrated sixty-minute back, neck and shoulder massage.
Prices