Your Prenatal Massage

Massage has a long history of healing and nurturing those who receive it. During pregnancy, your body is under unique kinds of stress and dealing with pains that are often new and unfamiliar. This makes pregnancy the perfect time to seek out the relaxing and pain-relieving effects of massage.

Why Massage?

Here are some of the many benefits of undergoing massage treatment during pregnancy:
– Reduced anxiety and/or depression
– Relief from muscle aches and tension
– Relief from joint pain
– Improved labor outcomes
– Healthier newborns
– Improved lymphatic flow
– Increased blood circulation
– Reduction of joint swelling and fluid buildup
– Hormone regulation
– Reduced nerved pain
– Better sleep

Certifications

I received my Advanced Certification in Prenatal Massage from the Finger Lakes School of Massage and am trained to understand and work with the needs of my pregnant clients.

Essential Oils During Pregnancy

During the first trimester, proper fetal development is crucial, and it’s best for you not to be exposed to essential oils. It’s also important to be cautious in your use of essential oils while nursing. As a general rule, I’ll discuss the use of essential oils with you before your session to determine whether or not they should be used during your massage. If we do choose to use essential oils during your session, they will be diluted. Application of “neat” or undiluted essential oils is not recommended during pregnancy.
The following oils are safe to use during pregnancy:
– Bergamot
– Geranium
– Lavender
– Mandarin
– Neroli
– Orange
– Patchouli
– Sandalwood
– Tea Tree
– Ylang Ylang

Body Position & Precautions

There are ways to ensure that your massage is pleasant and safe for you and your baby. During your prenatal session, massage should be performed side-lying, meaning that you will be positioned on your side with the support of a body pillow. Though many therapists have tables with cut-outs that permit pregnant clients to lay facing down, this can cause discomfort and increased abdominal pressure if done for too long. At my practice, I only perform side-lying prenatal massage during the second and third trimester, as I find it offers the best results with the minimum amount of risk.
It is best to discuss massage therapy with your prenatal healthcare provider before undergoing treatment. The best way to avoid unnecessary risks is to be as honest and informed as possible. If you feel uncomfortable with any aspect of your massage, please feel free to speak up. I am happy to change your position or my massage technique at any time in order to make your massage more effective and enjoyable. I am also happy to answer any questions you might have about your session at any time.