To ensure that a prenatal massage is right for you at this time, we ask that you schedule your massage by phone to speak with a care coordinator at (206) 729-6211.
What is a Prenatal Massage?
Prenatal massage is a therapeutic treatment specifically designed for the needs of pregnant women. During pregnancy, as the body experiences profound changes, this type of massage provides a safe method to alleviate stress, ease pain, and promote overall wellness.
Our approach targets the specific challenges faced by expectant mothers, such as muscle stiffness, joint pain, and diminished circulation, offering gentle yet effective alleviation. Our qualified massage therapists are adept at providing care to pregnant women at any stage of their pregnancy.
Benefits of Prenatal Massage
Stress Reduction: Engaging in prenatal massage calms the nervous system and lowers stress hormone levels, fostering relaxation and improving mood.
Improved Circulation: Soft strokes during the massage enhance blood circulation, helping to decrease swelling and boost the transport of oxygen and nutrients to both the expectant mother and the fetus.
Pain Relief: Customized massage techniques help soothe common pregnancy-related discomforts like back pain, tight neck muscles, leg cramps, and headaches.
Better Sleep: Prenatal massage aids in reducing muscle tightness and decreasing anxiety, which can lead to improved sleep patterns vital for the health of both the mother and the baby.
Enhanced Body Awareness: Massage therapy during pregnancy increases a mother’s sensitivity to her bodily changes, aiding in her physical preparation for labor and delivery.
Who Can Benefit from Prenatal Massage?
Expectant Mothers Seeking Emotional and Physical Support: Prenatal massage offers extensive emotional and physical benefits, ideal for any pregnant woman looking to enhance her overall wellbeing during pregnancy.
First-Time Mothers: Newcomers to motherhood will appreciate prenatal massage as a soothing introduction to the physical changes of pregnancy.
Women Experiencing Stressful Pregnancies: Prenatal massage provides a sanctuary of calm for mothers enduring additional physical or emotional stress during pregnancy.
Mothers with Physical Discomforts: Those suffering from common pregnancy-related pains such as backaches, swollen legs, or joint discomfort will find substantial relief through prenatal massage.
Mothers Seeking Better Sleep: Prenatal massage can significantly improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and alleviating common sleep disruptions faced during pregnancy.
Contraindications for Prenatal Massage
What are the contraindications (conditions) that could prevent me from receiving massage therapy?
A contraindication is any indication or symptom that makes it inadvisable to use a particular therapy. Please call us at 206-729-6211 if you believe you have a contraindication. We will help clarify your situation and ensure that your next step is a solid one!
The following are contraindications for massage therapy. If any of these apply to you we are not able to treat you with massage therapy at the present time, unless you have a written prescription from an MD or ND showing supervision over our services for the contraindication.
Contraindications for Therapeutic Massage
For Belly Massage
- Aortic or abdominal aneurism.
- Active and metastasizing cancers of the GI (gastro intestinal) tract or reproductive system.
- Acute abdominal pain (please call us at 206-729-6211 to clarify) – It depends on what is causing the acute pain. We may encourage you to see an MD first.
- Abdominal surgery – Please call us to inquire about your situation as this does not apply to all surgeries: 206-729-6211. Massage is generally fine after the 6 week mark post surgery.
- Acute inflammatory conditions of the GI tract. Please call us to inquire about your situation as we can direct you towards supplementation that may possibly alleviate the pain and then start a massage treatment plan: 206-729-6211.
- Recent history of GI or rectal bleeding. Please call to discuss. For example, bleeding from hemorrhoids is not a problem.
- Hematuria (blood in urine) – Please call to discuss.
For Full body massage
- High fever
- Acute pain or acute inflammatory condition.
- Congestive heart failure / phlebitis or deep vein thrombosis / other severe vascular conditions
- Uncontrolled hypertension.
- History of – uncontrolled – seizures.
- Recent heart attack.
- Renal insufficiency.
- Epilepsy or psychoses
For massaging a specific region of the body
- Communicable skin diseases.
- Open wounds.
- Acute inflammation or acute pain in a specific region of the body. Please call to discuss.
Prenatal Massage Frequently Asked Questions
Is prenatal massage safe?
Prenatal massage is safe throughout pregnancy when performed by a trained professional who understands the necessary precautions and adaptations for each trimester.
What should I expect during a prenatal massage session?
Expect to lie comfortably, usually in a side-lying or semi-reclined position, on a specially designed massage table. Techniques focus on areas of discomfort to promote relaxation. Communicate any concerns or preferences with your therapist during the session.
Can prenatal massage help with labor preparation?
Yes, prenatal massage can prepare your body for labor by promoting relaxation, easing muscle tension, and improving circulation. It also provides emotional support, which is beneficial as you approach childbirth
How often should I get a prenatal massage?
The frequency of prenatal massage can vary based on personal needs and comfort. Many find bi-weekly or monthly sessions beneficial, but some prefer weekly appointments, especially as the due date approaches.
Are there positions to avoid during prenatal massage?
After the first trimester, avoid lying face down even with a pregnancy cushion as it can strain the lower back and increase intrauterine pressure. Lying on your back is also not recommended as it can compress major blood vessels, reducing blood flow.
What should I expect during my first medical massage session?
During your initial visit, a licensed massage therapist will assess your specific health concerns related to your pregnancy and develop a personalized treatment plan. The session will focus on targeted areas related to your prenatal needs.
What are the contraindications for Prenatal Massage?
What are the contraindications (conditions) that could prevent me from receiving massage therapy?
A contraindication is any indication or symptom that makes it inadvisable to use a particular therapy. Please call us at 206-729-6211 if you believe you have a contraindication. We will help clarify your situation and ensure that your next step is a solid one!
The following are contraindications for massage therapy. If any of these apply to you we are not able to treat you with massage therapy at the present time, unless you have a written prescription from an MD or ND showing supervision over our services for the contraindication.
Contraindications for Therapeutic Massage
For Belly Massage
- Aortic or abdominal aneurism.
- Active and metastasizing cancers of the GI (gastro intestinal) tract or reproductive system.
- Acute abdominal pain (please call us at 206-729-6211 to clarify) – It depends on what is causing the acute pain. We may encourage you to see an MD first.
- Abdominal surgery – Please call us to inquire about your situation as this does not apply to all surgeries: 206-729-6211. Massage is generally fine after the 6 week mark post surgery.
- Acute inflammatory conditions of the GI tract. Please call us to inquire about your situation as we can direct you towards supplementation that may possibly alleviate the pain and then start a massage treatment plan: 206-729-6211.
- Recent history of GI or rectal bleeding. Please call to discuss. For example, bleeding from hemorrhoids is not a problem.
- Hematuria (blood in urine) – Please call to discuss.
For Full body massage
- High fever
- Acute pain or acute inflammatory condition.
- Congestive heart failure / phlebitis or deep vein thrombosis / other severe vascular conditions
- Uncontrolled hypertension.
- History of – uncontrolled – seizures.
- Recent heart attack.
- Renal insufficiency.
- Epilepsy or psychoses
For massaging a specific region of the body
- Communicable skin diseases.
- Open wounds.
- Acute inflammation or acute pain in a specific region of the body. Please call to discuss.
Conclusion
If you are an expectant mother seeking comfort and support during pregnancy, prenatal massage offers a nurturing solution tailored to the unique changes your body undergoes. By integrating regular prenatal massage sessions into your wellness routine, you can achieve profound relief from pregnancy discomforts and significant enhancements in both your physical and emotional health.
Ensure your prenatal massage sessions are performed by certified massage therapists who specialize in prenatal care. Opting for experienced professionals at Tummy Temple guarantees that your treatment is not only safe but also personalized to maximize your health benefits, helping you enjoy a more comfortable and joyful pregnancy journey.
