10 Benefits of Prenatal Massage and a Massage Doula
- Therapeutic massage is a completely safe, natural, drug-free method of relieving the aches and pains of pregnancy and labor.
- Massage assists the circulatory and lymphatic systems by promoting the movement of blood and lymph, which assists the heart and reduces swelling.
- Massage helps alleviate stress on the weight bearing joints of the hips, pelvis, knees, ankles, and relieve soreness in the muscles that are supporting the additional weight of the baby. Massage helps to soothe and ease sore muscles throughout the neck, back and hips. Massage helps to ease pressure and pain to the nervous system, including the sciatic nerve.
- Massage allows the recipient to learn relaxation skills valuable during labor. Massage also stimulates proprioceptors, a person’s sense of awareness of their muscles and any tension they might be holding. Which is key in labor.
- Massage provides a nurturing, soothing touch, which promotes release of emotional and physical tension. One of many scientific studies that support benefits of touch during pregnancy was published in Science Magazine.
- Reassurance, nurturing and relaxation for the mother during pregnancy have shown to have far-reaching impact on her developing baby. Studies indicate that baby’s sense and respond to their mother’s stress levels as registered by her increased heartbeat.
- “During massage, therapists can actually alter the sensation of pain by stimulating skin receptors connected to the brain.Such stimulation helps the mother’s body secrete oxytocin, which makes the uterus contract, and endorphins, which reduce pain.” Mashshall Klaus MD Neonatologist, U.C. Berkeley
- The subconscious connection made during the massage will automatically release endorphins when a massage doula comes to your labor.
- You have time during each massage to bond with your Massage Doula, practice relaxation techniques and ask questions.
- A Massage Doula can teach your partner how to help you through all stages of your pregnancy and labor. Both will feel knowledgeable, supported and most of all capable to accomplish a great Pregnancy and Birth.