Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy massage therapy is a great way for expectant mothers to have some of their aches and pains relieved, especially in the third trimester. It will relax and relieve their tired back and leg muscles. Table massage is best for an expectant mother. There are some rules for this type of massage that must be followed:

After the first trimester, no lying flat on the back or the abdomen.

Only use the side-lying position for the second and third trimesters.

If she has a history of miscarriage, avoid all massage in the first trimester.

If she has pre-eclampsia or eclampsia, no massage at all--this is

an absolute contraindication for massage.

No deep tissue massage.

No percussion.

No abdominal kneading--no deep abdominal work at all.

Avoid any application of heat except for a paraffin bath on her hands, feet, elbows, or knees.

If there are any health problems or you have questions about her health, contact her OB/GYN prior to massaging this client!

You will want to make sure your client uses the bathroom prior to starting the massage.

Help her get on the table. Have her lie on her side, with her back 4 inches from the edge of the massage table. She will be massaged for most of the session in this position.

Towards the end of the session, you will help her to change sides so you massage the other arm, leg and lower portion of the back that was on the table.A pillow should be placed under her head, one between her knees, another supporting her chest under her upper arm, and a fourth under her bottom foot.

If her ankles are swollen, place both feet higher than her knees by using bolsters or more pillows.

If the client feels nauseous, do not perform any rocking or vibration in your routine.

Keep the room cool for this client, with a fan blowing gently on her.

The massage itself should be soothing and relaxing. Stand behind her back and massage as much of it as you can without feeling uncomfortable. The lower side will be massaged when she turns.

Gently massage her arm and leg, both front and back and her feet. Do not allow her to lie flat on her back or prone on her tummy. Both put too much pressure on the abdominal blood vessels.

After the pregnancy massage therapy session is over, gently help the client sit up and help her off of the massage table.

Make sure she drinks a lot of water after the massage to flush toxins out of her system.

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