Throughout pregnancy, your body is constantly changing. In the early stages from tiredness, headaches and morning sickness to the later stages when the growth of the baby causes strain on your back, hips, neck and shoulders. Massage can also provide relaxation due to exhaustion and stress that can accompany pregnancy.
Most licensed massage therapists will request a prescription from your doctor prior to scheduling your appointment. This is just a precaution to make sure you are not having any complications or risks with your pregnancy. Throughout your pregnancy, communication with your doctor and your massage therapist are always important. It is also important to find a therapist experienced in prenatal massage.
Prenatal massage is similar to a regular therapeutic massage except the therapist positions the expectant mother on the table with the use of pillows and wedges to accommodate the baby and relieve stress from the spine and hips. Some therapist have specially designed tables which have strategically cut outs in them for the growing stomach and also to help with breast tenderness the mother might experience.
Remember that it is not only you that will benefit from the massage, but when you are relaxed and feeling well, your baby will be happy too!