Every pregnancy is different. Bi-weekly or monthly pregnancy massages address individual needs as well as common pregnancy aches, pains and stressors. Pregnancy treatments are a combination of various soft tissue manipulation techniques. In each trimester, the focus, technique and treatment vary to address a woman's changing needs. In the first trimester, the focus is on pelvic and postural alignment. This includes releasing tight muscles and strengthening weak muscles to put the body in optimal condition for the upcoming changes. The second trimester treatments focus on musculoskeletal areas stressed by pregnancy weight shifts and relieving pain from leg or calf cramps and varicose veins. During the third trimester, the therapist focuses on relieving hip and low back pain as well as physical preparation for delivery.
Postpartum Massage
The time after giving birth is one of exhilaration, joy, fatigue and perhaps disappointment. Massage therapy can provide women with both the alleviation of musculoskeletal complaints and with emotional support and nurturance during a critical life transition. Women may receive a massage within 24 hours after birth. A physician's release is necessary if there were any complications to the labor and delivery. Postpartum massage focuses on circulatory strokes that enhance venous return and lymphatic drainage, on strain and pain reduction and abdominal massage.
To accommodate the sensitivity of nursing mothers, side lying position is often the most comfortable for massage work on the back. Post C-section mothers will use a pillow for abdominal support to avoid incision sensitivity. Most abdominal massage must be delayed for post C-section mothers, however once the surgical scar is fully closed, scar massage will help prevent the formation of adhesions and discomfort. Scar massage cannot eliminate the scar tissue but will improve the general appearance and eliminate facial restrictions generated by older scars.