what is a prenatal massage

A prenatal massage is a type of massage that is adapted for the anatomical changes that occur during pregnancy. It is similar to a Swedish massage, but with modifications to ensure the safety and comfort of both the mother and baby. Prenatal massage aims to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and mobility, and reduce swelling. It can also help reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle aches and joint pains, and improve labor outcomes and newborn health. Other benefits of prenatal massage include improving sleep quality, preparing the body for labor and birth, and offering a natural, safe, drug-free alternative for pain relief. Before getting a prenatal massage, it is important to get your healthcare providers approval and find a massage therapist with training in prenatal massage. Women can begin massage therapy at any point in their pregnancy, but many facilities will refuse to offer massage to a woman who is still in her first trimester because of the increased risk for miscarriage associated with the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.