Pregnancy Massage
Omphysio Service
Pregnancy (Pre-natal) Massage
Pregnancy massage, also widely noted known as pre-natal massage, is a massage therapy tailored to comfort and ease the aches and pain of pregnant women. As a pregnant woman, you would expect certain physiological changes in your body to support the growing needs of your baby. These changes include weight gain, hormonal influx, enlargement of breasts, changes in circulation and postural changes. The resultant increased loading on your weight-bearing joints may predispose you to low back pain, sciatica, swollen peripheral joints, upper back pain, rib cage pain, headaches, cramps and muscle aches. Massage has been used as an alternative medicine to counter these aches and pains since yesteryear’s time. It is also strongly recommended by the growing body of research into maternal care. In fact, massage helps to calm and soothe the pregnancy-related anxieties by stimulating the release of natural endorphins called ‘serotonin’.
How do we help?
At Omphysio, our specialists appreciate the nuances of the comforting care and holistic approach that you envisage during your pregnancy massage. They are trained to identify the stressed regions and employ techniques which are most suitable, efficient, comfortable and safest. Pregnancy massage differs from a classic massage in terms of positioning and depth of certain techniques. For optimal stability, you will be lying on your side and supported with pillows for a cosy support. Your legs may also be propped up to prevent and reduce any swelling on the feet. Our therapists’ techniques optimise your peripheral circulation and lymphatic flow to redirect the toxic by-products through an effective effleurage. Kneading, petrissage and other techniques are performed gently to mitigate any fatigue post-massage. The sessions could be up to 30min or 60 min long based on your requirements and availability. Our clients often prefer coming in until their labour to make the most of their precious massage time! will often require a series of treatments to provide maximum benefit.
What are the precautions I need to take?
Pregnancy massage is beneficial and safe for both mum and baby. It is, however, not appropriate to have one when you have nausea, vomiting or morning sickness. It is also avoided if you have a high risk pregnancy (due to suspected preterm labour or placental abruption). You may confirm your suitability for the massage with your midwife and/ or doctor. We are always available to reassure you on any queries and guide you through your pregnancy-related changes.
What are the benefits of pregnancy massage?
- Induces relaxation and well-being
- Reduces overall pain and muscle ache
- Enhances circulation and remediates sleep
- Reduces peripheral swelling and prevents muscle cramps
- Improves postural awareness and boosts pain-free mobility
- Reassures healthy emotional support and prevents anxiety/depression
- Alleviates mechanical triggers of stress and reduces stress induced headaches and spasms