Thursday, November 14, 2013

Pregnancy Massage - Some Interesting Facts

As a massage therapist, I have always enjoyed working with women before, during, and after the birth of their babies and I am always interested in learning more and more about the many benefits and science behind prenatal massage and postnatal massage.

Last week I attended a great talk by Leslie Stager, one of the foremost authorities on pregnancy massage. 
The talk was entitled "Myths and Realities" and here are a few of the tidbits that I took away:
* Massage in the first trimester is fine and wonderfully helpful!

* Because miscarriage rates in the first trimester are so common (22-24%), there had been a perception that there was an association between the two. The truth is that a healthy pregnancy is very difficult to dislodge. If it were otherwise, there wouldn't be demand for abortive technologies.
* Massage of the ankles during pregnancy is commonly thought to be something to be avoided because of acupuncture points associated with the uterus. Receiving massage of the ankles is NOT a concern if just a couple of specific acupressure points are avoided. Acupressure stimulates specific and intentional points that can help support labor labor if it has already begun or is ready to start.
* Reflexology also supports pregnancy and labor and not miscarriage.
* The biggest concern with massage during pregnancy is due to increased blood volume and the possibility of blood clots. During a pregnancy massage care is taken to not work deeply in the thigh and calf areas for this reason. Lighter, flowing massage strokes are safe and soothing.
* Massage during the perinatal period is overwhelmingly supportive to the well being of Mama and Baby!


You can experience the benefits of Prenatal Massage by visiting us here at Essence of Bliss Massage in SpringWell Health Center! Call us today to schedule an appointment: 541-343-3455

About the Author:
Sarananda Davis, LMT #7612

Sarananda is the owner of Essence of Bliss Massage, a reputable and reliable source for therapeutic massage in Eugene, Oregon, located at SpringWell Health Center. She is a Licensed Massage Therapist with over 10 years experience who specializes in Therapeutic Swedish and Deep Tissue, Prenatal Massage, Reiki and Raindrop Therapy.

Visit her website: EssenceofBlissMassage.com  for tips and discussions on massage therapy, nutrition, prenatal care, labor and birth issues and how to care for your family naturally!

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