Pregnancy Massage is designed to assist women through each phase of pregnancy and in the weeks following birth. Massage must be adjusted in many ways to accommodate the natural changes that are taking place in the mother’s body. Through a combination of traditional Swedish Massage, Shiatsu, passive stretching, and take-home exercises, treatments are designed to provide support and relief during each trimester.
First Trimester
The first few months of pregnancy, particularly the first pregnancy, can be an emotionally and physically challenging time. Receiving massage can help relieve lower back ache, dizziness, fatigue and nausea caused by hormonal changes. Gentle holding techniques help the mother regain equilibrium and reduce anxiety, while gentle acupressure can ease morning sickness and headaches. Mothers can also learn pressure points to use on themselves in order to lessen nausea and dizziness. Self-holding techniques settle energy into the abdomen and aid relaxation, while breathing and visualisation help develop a connection with the baby.
Second Trimester
The second trimester is usually the “easiest” phase of pregnancy. Mum is often blooming, energetic and feeling more connected with the baby. By week twenty-one, Braxton Hicks contractions, heartburn and cramps may occur more frequently. Generally, Mother is still fairly mobile and feels comfortable lying on her back for short periods. From this position, relaxed stretching can relieve back strain and swelling in legs, arms and chest. Massage is given predominantly in the side position, and can assist with shoulder, neck and back tension, odema, varicose veins, and carpel tunnel syndrome. For home, we introduce antenatal exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles. Exercise and massage with Partner can also be relaxing and fun. Pregnancy Yoga classes are recommended to sustain energy levels, enhance flexibility and strength, and prepare for labour.
Third Trimester
The third trimester is the most physically demanding. As posture copes with the increasing weight of the baby, prolonged backaches and sciatica may occur, joints may feel strained and Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction may arise. Organs begin to feel squashed, often causing breathlessness and heartburn. Deep massage on the sacrum, neck, shoulder and back muscles can help counteract some of the causes of pelvic and back pain, including tilting of the pelvis, which shortens and hollows the lower back and rounds the upper back. Knees, ankles and swollen limbs may also need attention. Exercises focus on postural awareness and strengthening of lower back, pelvis and pelvic floor muscles. We also explore positions and massage techniques with Mother and Partner for use in labour. Pregnancy Yoga and Birth Preparation classes are recommended to sustain energy levels, enhance flexibility and strength, and prepare for labour.
Birth Preparation
Birth preparation work encourages optimal fetal positioning in the womb by helping to create space in the abdomen and relieve pressure on the back and spine. Often the first and longest stage of labour is prolonged by heavy contractions, which are the body’s way of guiding the baby into the ideal birthing position (baby’s spine resting against the front of the mother’s abdomen and away from her spine). By encouraging the baby into this position beforehand, labour time can often be significantly reduced. Now is also the time to introduce simple massage, shiatsu and acupressure techniques specifically designed for use in labour. Partners are encouraged to participate in exploring options for positioning, relaxation, breathing and support. This includes techniques to ease strain in the back, sacrum and pelvis and assist with pain relief during each stage of labour. See Birth Preparation Classes for more information. Options for support with breastfeeding and parenthood can also be explored, such as postnatal and infant massage.
Postnatal Massage
Postnatal massage focuses on increasing energy, relieving muscles strained during labour, reducing swelling around arms and chest (a preventative to mastitis), and increasing tone to the abdomen and uterus. Exercises provide support for breastfeeding, strengthen abdominal muscles and realign posture. Mum can also bring baby to the session to allow for feedings and enhance connection during treatments. Postnatal Yoga classes are recommended to aid the healing process, regain strength and enhance physical and mental well-being while maintaining a close bond with baby.
Baby Massage
Touch builds the bond between parents and baby. Baby massage courses comprise a series of 5 lessons in which parents learn simple techniques for babies under a year old. Benefits include improved sleep, circulation, muscle tone, digestion and respiration, plus relief for colic, constipation and teething. Through this unique experience, babies experience the value of positive touch that will have a lasting effect throughout their lifetime. These benefits can be witnessed through enhanced physical and cognitive development as well as improved self-confidence and awareness. Parents also experience relaxation and learn to trust their intuitive wisdom as parents in answering their baby’s needs. Lessons are a great way for Dad to be involved, or can be coupled with postnatal massage for Mum. Lessons can be taught on a one-to-one basis or in groups of two or more. Certified by the International Association of Infant Massage.
Should you have any questions, please submit them below or via email: info@queensparktherapies.com or phone: 079 4325 8540.
