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Maternity Massage
Massage
during pregnancy is therapeutic bodywork which focuses on the special needs of
the mother-to-be as her body goes through the dramatic changes of the childbirth
experience. It is a fast-growing field in the United States that has attracted
the interest of labor and delivery nurses, nurse-midwives, childbirth educators
and obstetricians. Massage therapy enhances the function of muscles and joints,
improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical
fatigue.
The popularity of prenatal massage is the result of a trend toward a higher
level of wellness, especially during pregnancy. Many women are postponing
childbirth until they have achieved other goals, such as careers and
relationships. Because of this, pregnancy is anticipated and enjoyed to its
fullest for the wondrous experience it is. Today's pregnant women - along with
other health care consumers - are looking for alternative approaches to support
traditional health services.
What are the benefits?
Emotional Support and Nurturing Touch
Relaxation and Decreased Insomnia
Stress Relief on Weight Bearing Joints, such as ankles, lower back and pelvis
Neck and Back pain relief caused by muscle imbalance and weakness
Assistance in Maintaining proper posture
Preparing the muscles used during childbirth
Reduced Swelling in hands and feet
Lessened Sciatic pain
Fewer calf cramps
Headache and sinus congestion relief
Is Therapeutic Pregnancy Massage for you?
I will want to know if you are having any problems or complications with your
pregnancy before you begin. If you are, then I will require approval from your
primary health care provider before proceeding with any bodywork. The following
are circumstances in which massage should not be performed:
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Heavy discharge (watery or bloody)
Diabetes
Contagious illness
Fever
Vomiting
Unusual pain
Pre-clampsia
High Blood Pressure
Morning Sickness
Abdominal Pain
Diarrhea
Any Malignant Condition |
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Evolution Tips the Balance in Mom's Favor
I found this article that explains a little more about back pain during
pregnancy and
how our bodies have adapted to make this process more bearable.
Mom-to-be
Questions
I'm in my 1st
trimester (the 1st 13 weeks of pregnancy) can I schedule an appointment?
Because of the tremendous physical and hormonal changes that occur, some
find massage to be quite helpful in fighting fatigue and addressing stress.
Although the body has not begun the drastic
changes that surface in the 2nd & 3rd trimester, massage in the 1st trimester is
a great way to begin preparing the body for pregnancy.
How often will I need to come to find relief?
I recommend clients bi-weekly appointments in the 2nd trimester and,
depending on how much discomfort you are experiencing, once a week during the
third trimester is wonderful. I have found that mothers-to-be appreciate their
massage appointments because they know relief is at hand. They look forward to
their weekly appointments to ease recurring problems, such as sciatica, leg
cramps, and back pain.
What should I expect
during my massage session?
Your comfort and safety is of utmost concern during your massage session.
You will be comfortably supported by positioning various pillows for proper
support during pregnancy to accommodate a growing body.
How much do you charge?
$65.00/60 minutes $95.00/90 minutes
After I have my baby, how can massage help me?
Post partum massage helps restore the body to it's pre-pregnancy
condition and to address the stress of carrying and caring for a newborn. It can
speed recovery bringing relief to your sore muscles and helping you to relax.
Abdominal massage can help shrink the uterus and relieve subcutaneous scar
tissue.
Do you have an appointment for a maternity massage? Download this intake
form and bring it with you to
your first appointment or e-mail it to me prior to your session.
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