Massages during pregnancy are extremely beneficial to the mother and baby.  They help to relax and improve the mothers overall circulation as well as help her with the labor later on.  Pregnancy massage is entirely different than a regular massage in the mother doesn’t lie directly on her stomach.  The massage is done while the mother lies on her back or side.  Certain massage techniques cannot be performed, otherwise this can actually induce labor and cause a women to start having contractions.  It’s vital that you only receive a pregnancy massage from someone who is specifically trained on how to administer a massage for a pregnant women. It ensures the massage is done properly and safely for the mother and baby.  A regular massage can cause more harm to the body, and a women should not receive a regular deep tissue massage while they are pregnant otherwise it can cause serious risks during the pregnancy.  Typically pillows will also be used to support the women’s legs.  The legs are elevated to help with the circulation process during the entire massage.  Extra pillows may be added or removed during the entire massage.  This helps the massage therapist work on different targeted areas, and the elevation also helps the women stay comfy during the entire massage.

Pregnancy Massage Misconceptions

Some misconceptions about pregnancy massage are that it can cause premature labor or even a miscarriage.  This is in fact incorrect.  A true pregnancy massage doesn’t induce labor nor cause any issues for the women during or after the massage.  It truly helps the women with the labor pains as well as the fatigue.  The only way that a women may be at risk is if they receive a massage without letting the massage therapist know they are pregnant, as the regular deep tissue and Swedish massage can cause harm to the women.   The amount of pressure that is used is harsher and more concentrated.  This can cause discomfort and complications during the pregnancy.  It’s important to always inform your massage therapist if you are pregnant so they can ensure they only use specific techniques.