Can Massage Therapies Relieve Pain During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a unique experience for everyone who goes through it. Strange changes occur in your body when you’re growing a tiny life inside it. 

For some, it can be a blissful experience full of compliments about that pregnancy glow. For others, there might be challenging niggles, pains and fatigue to contend with.

In either case, a gentle pregnancy massage with a pain reduction specialist could help give you a temporary rest when bringing a new life into the world. 

What kind of pain can be expected during pregnancy?

While it is different for every pregnancy, there are common symptoms that occur for many who are expecting. 

Types of pain is often reported are:

• Backaches
• Stomach pain
• Pelvic pain, also called pelvic girdle pain
• Stretched muscles and ligaments
• Leg pain

How can a massage relieve pregnancy pains?

A Swedish massage works on soft tissue by kneading, stroking or effleurage, tapping, or using friction and vibration techniques. 

It is known for reducing stress and cortisol levels. That is why it feels so relaxing.

Massage can also help to remove metabolic waste from the body by improving circulation. This includes removing lactic and uric acid, which cause cramping and inflammation in muscles. 

Gentle attention given to ankles and calves during a massage can help reduce swelling, too.

Is a massage dangerous when pregnant?

Unlike a deep tissue or sports massage, Swedish massage is a gentle form of therapy. However, it is natural to worry if a massage can affect your baby or you.  

It is not dangerous to get a massage while pregnant; a relaxing massage is even recommended by the National Childbirth Trust. 

However, it is important to note that there are some treatment aspects that should be considered.

Deep tissue massage, which digs hard into knotted muscles, is not recommended. This is due to the risk of an undiagnosed clot being dislodged by a hard massage technique. 

Essential oils, if used, should be diluted to less than two per cent concentration. If you have a nut allergy, then it is always wise to check the type of carrier oils used beforehand. 

If you are undergoing treatment for a pregnancy-related condition it is always best to check with your doctor or midwife before booking a pregnancy massage.