Everything you need to know about pregnancy massages

If you’re expecting soon, you may have noticed your body is starting to feel achy. Emotionally and physically things are changing including increased tension in the muscular system and a shift in the body’s entire centre of gravity. With all these changes to cope with now is the time to take extra care of yourself. Pregnancy massages are a very beneficial treatment that can help make the whole pregnancy experience smoother and more enjoyable.

When can I get a pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy massages can be great for women who are in their 2nd and 3rd trimesters. At La Peau we don’t recommend pregnancy massages to women in their 1st trimester. This is because it is a particularly sensitive developmental stage for your child and so it is best to avoid interference during this time. Once you reach 13 weeks, it is perfectly fine to start incorporating pregnancy massages into your routine. However, all women are on a different pregnancy journey, so it’s still important to consult your doctor or health professional before booking your first pregnancy massage.

Pregnancy massages share many of the goals associated with regular massage such as relaxing tense muscles, improving circulation and mobility, and making you feel relaxed and eased. There is an extensive list of great things about pregnancy massages. Here are some of them:

1. It has been proven to reduce stress hormones in a pregnant woman’s body. It also increases the levels of feel-good hormones which may be low during pregnancy, being a period of intensive emotional change.
2. It can lead to a reduction in anxiety. After a massage moods levels are more positive and at ease.
3. Being in a restful and relaxing treatment pregnant women find massage a rejuvenating and energising experience. It can relieve nausea and heartburn.
4. Relieves the everyday discomforts of pregnancy such as an aching neck, sore back, leg cramps, swelling of the ankles and feet, and fluid retention.
5. Pregnancy massages may improve the progression of labour with better health outcomes for both the mother and her baby. More relaxed mothers tend to have a lower risk of intervention during labour and birth.
6. Getting weekly to monthly massages during the second trimester and even more frequently during the third trimester helps reduce many pregnancy problems. These often include sciatica, leg cramps, and back and shoulder pain.

How does it work?

Pregnancy massages can be done in a variety of different ways. Some pregnant women prefer to lie on their sides, others lie on their bellies. After the first 25 weeks of pregnancy, it is recommended not to lie flat on your back as this can cause pressure deep on blood vessels, causing reduced circulation.

So, if you are pregnant and feel like you either need a specific area worked on or would just like a relaxing massage, La Peau is the answer. Feel free to call us or come into the clinic if you have any further questions!

P: (07) 3207 4100⁠
W: https://lapeau.com.au/
A: Suite 12/120 Birkdale Road, Birkdale⁠