Maternity Massage
By Lori Hermann
Certified Maternity Massage Therapist

One way that women can minimize the physical and emotional discomforts of pregnancy and childbirth, and improve the quality of this transformative time of their lives, is to receive periodic maternity massages, a form of therapeutic bodywork. Massage can help alleviate the backaches, leg cramps, and swelling that often accompany pregnancy. Maternity massage is much more than a soothing back rub, and has documented therapeutic value. Given the complex hormonal and physiological changes of pregnancy, it is best to seek out a massage therapist specifically certified in maternity massage. Most maternity massage therapists maintain a private practice, working in a home-based or commercial office. Others are affiliated with medical professionals, women's health centers, or work in health clubs/gyms.

The best way to find a qualified specialist in this field is by contacting a national massage association or other certification programs, word of mouth referrals, or your care provider. Consider certification, experience, location, and cost to determine compatibility.

Massage reduces stress, induces deep relaxation, increases energy levels and relieves muscle tension in the areas most affected by the growing fetus and the mother's shifting center of gravity, such as the back, neck, and pelvic area. The massage therapist assists the woman with passive muscle stretches and joint movements to relieve cramping, fatigue, and musculoskeletal pain, helping to increase range of motion and flexibility. Massage stimulates the circulation of blood and lymph fluids and reduces swelling in the lower extremities, a common symptom during pregnancy. Massage also facilitates postpartum structural realignment and healing of connective tissue when a Cesarean section has been performed. The expectant mother is educated about safe and effective exercises, ways to improve posture, diaphragmatic breathing techniques, and relaxation visualizations. She can learn effleurage, a calming, long, rhythmic massage stroke, which can be employed during labor as a way to relax during contractions.

Maternity massage is safe and effective for women with uncomplicated, low risk pregnancies. Written consent from the prenatal care provider is needed for women with high risks, such as hypertension, diabetes, multiple fetuses, previous problem pregnancy, or those under 20 or over 35. The average session lasts an hour, with costs ranging from $40-$75; many therapists are willing to make house calls for an additional $10-$20. Some therapists offer discounts, referral bonuses and gift certificates. A session begins with a medical history review to determine if a release from your prenatal care provider is necessary, and to enable the therapist to focus on areas needing relief. The therapist recommends exercises, body mechanics, breathing, and relaxation techniques.

The bodywork takes place in a clean, private, nurturing space, often with soft lighting and soothing music. During the massage session, a light oil or lotion is used which lubricates the skin to enable a gliding action across the muscle and helps replenish the skins suppleness. Several organizations provide advanced training in massage therapy for pregnancy and childbirth throughout the country. You can learn more about this specialized form of massage, volunteer as a subject for the hands-on portion of their training curriculum, or receive a list of local graduates.