Perks of Pregnancy Massage
Posted: August 6th, 2012
In recent years, numerous studies have demonstrated that regular visits to a massage therapist during pregnancy can result in less anxiety and depression and can also help to reduce pain. Swedish massage happens to be the most highly recommended massage method for pregnant women because it tends to have the most benefit for pregnancy-related discomfort. This is often caused by strain on the muscles, joints and circulatory system. Here are a few of the benefits of massage therapy for pregnant women.
Hormone Regulation
Within the last decade, scientific studies have found that massage can significantly improve the levels of hormones associated with stress and relaxation. This results in better cardiovascular health, overall better moods and can even keep cravings for unhealthy foods at bay. One study showed that pregnant women who got a massage twice weekly for five weeks had lower levels of the stress hormones, cortisol and norepinephrine, and higher levels of the mood-enhancing neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin. These positive alterations meant that women not only felt better while pregnant but that they also endured fewer and less severe complications during delivery. In addition, there is ample evidence that mothers who have higher dopamine and serotonin while pregnant give birth to babies who tend to be happier and calmer.
Less Swelling
During pregnancy, swollen joints are a vexing problem that is usually caused by decreased blood circulation and increased pressure on blood vessels. Massage helps to stimulate circulation and disperse fluid collection in swollen areas to reduce pain.
Less Nerve Pain
In pregnant women, the enlarged uterus can place pressure on the the muscles of the upper legs, causing inflammation which can in turn put pressure on the sciatic nerve. Massage helps to address this problem by easing tightness and tension in the muscles and reducing swelling. Many women find that regular massage brings them significant relief from sciatic nerve pain.
