Pregnancy is an exciting time in a woman’s life, but it brings plenty of challenges along with it. Your hormones are raging, your feet are swollen, and it seems you wake up with a new ache or pain each day.
If there was ever a time when you need a soothing, relaxing massage, it’s right now. But this brings us to an important question: Is it safe to get a massage during pregnancy?
For the majority of pregnant women, pregnancy massage (also called prenatal massage) is a safe and effective way to relieve stress and ease those aches and pains. However, it will be a little different than your standard Swedish or deep tissue massage.
Keep reading and we’ll discuss everything you need to know about prenatal massage!
Prenatal Massage: What Makes It Different?
Your changing anatomy means you won’t be able to lie face-down on the massage table like you normally would. Depending on how far along you are (and what makes you feel most comfortable), your therapist can do one of two things.
First, you’ll have the option of using specialty cushions with “cutouts” for your belly and breasts. This allows you to safely and comfortably lie face-down and receive a standard relaxing massage.
The other option is to receive your massage while lying on your side. Your therapist will use plenty of pillows and cushions to support your head, back, belly, and joints.
Whichever option you choose, expect gentle to medium pressure with lots of slow, soothing strokes. Prenatal massage is a sure way to reduce stress and restore your energy.
What Are the Benefits of Massage During Pregnancy?
Like other types of massage, pregnancy massage offers an array of physical and mental health benefits. These include:
- Improved circulation
- Better quality of sleep
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduced swelling in your extremities
- Relief from joint pain and muscular tension
- Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression
If you have days when your pregnancy feels more exhausting than magical, massage is an ideal way to restore your body’s balance and help you feel amazing again.
Are There Any Risks I Should Know About?
Doctors generally consider massage to be safe at any time during pregnancy. Due to the higher risk of miscarriage in the first trimester, however, most spas only accept clients who are at least 13 weeks along in their pregnancies.
The vast majority of women in their second and third trimesters can safely enjoy a massage. The exception is women with high-risk pregnancies or conditions such as preeclampsia or clotting disorders. If you have any concerns, speak to your doctor and get the green light before you book your prenatal massage.
Looking for the Best Pregnancy Massage in Vail?
If you (or a loved one) is a mom-to-be, it’s time to put “prenatal massage” on the to-do list. It’s the perfect way to nurture your body and ease those pregnancy-related aches and pains.
Whether you live in the Vail Valley or you’re here on vacation, we’re glad you found us. Our experienced therapists are skilled in the art of pregnancy massage and are here to help you feel your best. We also offer Swedish, deep tissue, and many other types of massage too, so feel free to bring your family or friends along too!
Apres Massage is conveniently located in the Highline Doubletree Hotel in West Vail. Call us at 970-445-2114 or book your session online and get ready to relax in style.