Pregnancy Massage
Did you know that during pregnancy, the
heart increases total blood volume by 30 to 50 percent, the lungs increase oxygen consumption by 10 to 20 percent, which requires
a 30 to 40 percent increase of inhaled air; the digestive system must handle increased food intake while it becomes displaced
and the intestines, stomach and diaphragm are pushed upward by the enlarged uterus. Blood flow in the kidneys increases by
35 percent and filtering function increases by 40 percent. Increased urination and urine leakage result from pressure on the
bladder by the uterus. Rashes, breakouts, and discoloration can plague the skin. Weight gain increases the curvature of the
lumbar spine and stress on the bones and joints. Relaxin, a hormone that makes the ligaments more stretchable causes the joints
to become less stable.
Because of these normal body changes
in pregnancy, you quite often hear: "Will I ever look normal again"; "Slow down, I'm out of breath"; "Will I ever be regular
again?"; "Where's the restroom?"; "Is there anything safe I can use to get rid of these brown patches?"; "My back is killing
me"; "My body feels so loose, like it's going in different directions."
As you can see; a woman's body goes through
many changes during pregnancy; some can be uncomfortable and stressful. Many women are discovering the benefits of pregnancy
massage. Massage reduces stress.
Massage Produces:
- Elimination of waste products through the lymphatic & circulatory system, which combats fatigue.
- Increased circulation and reduced stress on the heart
which keep blood pressure in check.
- Alleviation of muscle tightness, stiffness, tension,
and cramping.
- Relief from headaches, stiff neck, backaches, sciatica,
edema, and sore feet.
- An increase in oxygen and nutrients to the cells
of mother and fetus; which means mom has more energy and fetus receives better nourishment.
- Stabilization of hormone levels.
- Increased flexibility of muscles.
- Relaxation and better sleep; which means a healthier
and happier mom.
- Relaxation of muscles to improve rotation of breech
presentation.
- Preparation and loosening of the pelvis before birth.
- An easier childbirth.
- Easier breastfeeding and better milk production due
to reduction in tension.
- Speedier healing during postpartum recovery.
- Realignment of pelvis after birth.
- Relief from soreness and stiffness after childbirth.
- Speedier recovery after a cesarean birth.
