Pre & Post-Natal Massage
Our tailored women's health physiotherapy programmes are designed to meet the unique needs of each stage of your life. Whether you're a new mum, experiencing menopause, returning to exercise postnatally, or navigating pregnancy, we have a programme for you.
If your situation doesn't quite fit into these categories, don't worry—reach out to us. We have the experience and expertise to help with a variety of concerns. And if you have any questions, our friendly team is here to support you every step of the way.
Let's work together to find the best solution for your health and wellness.
What is it?
A pregnancy massage, also known as prenatal or postnatal massage, is a specialised treatment designed to support women during and after pregnancy. While similar to regular massage in its aim to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation, and enhance mobility, pregnancy massage is uniquely tailored to the changing needs of expectant and new mothers. Therapists trained in pregnancy massage adjust their techniques to ensure they are both safe and effective.
Prenatal Massage
Carrying a baby shifts your centre of gravity, placing significant stress on your back, neck, abdominal muscles, and shoulders. Pregnancy also causes your ligaments to relax in preparation for childbirth, making your pelvic joints less stable. This shift in stability, combined with the changes in posture that pull your pelvis forward, can lead to discomfort and a persistently aching lower back as you manage the additional weight.
Our trained prenatal massage therapist understands where a pregnant woman is most likely to experience soreness and swelling and can provide targeted relief. We also know which techniques and areas to avoid, ensuring that the massage is not only soothing but also safe for both you and your baby.
Postnatal Massage
After giving birth, your body continues to undergo significant changes as it recovers from pregnancy and childbirth. Postnatal massage can play a crucial role in this recovery process. It helps to ease muscle tension, particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders, which are often strained from carrying and feeding your newborn. Additionally, postnatal massage can help reduce swelling, improve circulation, and promote relaxation, which is essential during the often demanding postpartum period.
At The LBPC our postnatal massage therapist will focus on areas that need the most care, helping to alleviate discomfort, support the healing process, and provide a moment of relaxation and self-care, which is vital for new mothers.
Who is it For?
Expectant Mothers (Prenatal): Women in their second and third trimesters. While some therapists offer first-trimester massages, it’s generally recommended to wait until the second trimester when the pregnancy is more stable.
New Mothers (Postnatal): Women who have recently given birth, including those recovering from caesarean sections or vaginal deliveries.
When Can I Have It?
Prenatal Massage
-
Second Trimester (14-27 weeks): This is often considered the safest time to begin prenatal massage, as the risk of miscarriage decreases significantly after the first trimester.
-
Third Trimester (28 weeks - birth): Massage can be particularly beneficial during this time as the body experiences more significant physical changes.
Postnatal Massage
-
Immediately After Birth: Gentle massages can begin a few days after a natural birth or when a doctor gives the go-ahead post-caesarean.
-
Continued Postpartum Care: Regular massages can be beneficial during the postpartum period, especially in the first six weeks when the body is undergoing significant recovery.
It is advised to consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any massage therapy, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy or any medical conditions.
What are the Benefits?
Prenatal Benefits
-
Reduces Back and Hip Pain: Helps alleviate common pregnancy discomforts like lower back pain and pelvic pain.
-
Improves Sleep: Promotes relaxation, leading to better sleep.
-
Reduces Swelling: Aids in the reduction of oedema (swelling) in the legs, feet, and hands by improving circulation.
-
Decreases Stress and Anxiety: Promotes relaxation and reduces stress hormones.
-
Relieves Headaches: Can help reduce pregnancy-related headaches through targeted pressure.
Postnatal Benefits
-
Supports Postpartum Recovery: Helps the body recover from the physical demands of childbirth.
-
Reduces Muscle Tension: Eases tension in muscles used during labour or those strained from caring for a newborn.
-
Improves Mood: Can help combat postnatal depression by reducing stress and increasing relaxation.
-
Enhances Breastfeeding: Promotes relaxation, which can improve milk flow and ease breastfeeding challenges.
What to Expect
For Prenatal Massage
Positioning: You’ll be positioned in a way that’s comfortable and safe, often side-lying with support cushions to avoid pressure on the abdomen.
Pressure: The therapist will use gentle, soothing strokes, avoiding deep tissue techniques that might be too intense.
For Postnatal Massage
Focus Areas: Special attention may be given to the back, shoulders, and neck, areas that are often strained during breastfeeding and childcare.
Customisation: The massage can be tailored to address specific postpartum issues, such as caesarean recovery or breastfeeding discomfort.
What to Avoid
Pregnancy massage is generally safe, but there are some conditions where it may be best to avoid it or seek medical clearance first:
-
First Trimester: Some practitioners avoid massage in the first trimester due to the higher risk of miscarriage.
-
High-Risk Pregnancies: Conditions like pre-eclampsia, placenta praevia, or gestational diabetes may require special precautions.
-
Severe Swelling or Pre-eclampsia: Swelling in the legs with other symptoms like headaches, visual disturbances, or high blood pressure.
-
Abdominal Pain or Cramps: Any unexplained abdominal pain or cramping should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
-
History of Preterm Labour: Women with a history of preterm labour should consult their doctor before receiving a massage.
Feel Your Best During Pregnancy
Prepare for the arrival of your little one with the care and support you deserve! Our specialised pregnancy massage is designed to relieve discomfort, promote relaxation, and nurture your body throughout this special time. Book your session today, and if you have any questions, feel free to contact us—our team is here to support you every step of the way.