Why Prenatal Massage is a Must-Have for Anchorage Moms-to-Be
Pregnancy can be a wonderful and exciting time, but it can also be stressful and uncomfortable for many women.
As an Anchorage mom-to-be, you want to ensure that you are taking care of both yourself and your growing baby.
One way to alleviate some of the physical and emotional stress of pregnancy is through prenatal massage.
Prenatal massage is a must-have for any mom-to-be who wants to feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and prepared for childbirth.
Not only can it help reduce pregnancy-related discomforts such as back pain, headaches, and swelling, but it can also have a positive impact on your mental health by reducing stress and anxiety.
At Anchorage Massage Therapies, we find it rewarding to give expectant mothers (and their babies!) a chance to relax and feel cared for during their pregnancy.
In this blog post, we'll explore how prenatal massage can benefit both you and your baby during this special time in your life.
So, sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of prenatal massage.
What is prenatal massage?
Prenatal massage is a type of massage therapy that is specifically designed for pregnant women.
It is a gentle form of massage that focuses on the unique needs of pregnant women, such as relieving back pain, reducing swelling, and promoting relaxation.
At Anchorage Massage Therapies, we offer both prenatal massage, as well as lymphatic drainage massage for expectant mothers.
Let’s talk about what a prenatal massage is first.
Benefits of prenatal massage
There are many benefits to getting a prenatal massage during pregnancy.
First and foremost, it can help alleviate some of the physical discomforts of pregnancy.
For example, prenatal massage can help relieve back pain, which is a common complaint among pregnant women.
It can also help reduce swelling in the legs and feet, which can be caused by the extra weight and pressure of pregnancy.
In addition to these physical benefits, prenatal massage can also have a positive impact on the mother’s mental health.
It can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can be especially important during pregnancy when hormones are fluctuating and emotions are high.
Why Anchorage moms-to-be should consider prenatal massage
Another reason why expectant moms should consider prenatal massage is that it can help prepare your body for childbirth.
Prenatal massage can help improve circulation, which can be important during labor and delivery.
It can also help improve your range of motion, which can be helpful during childbirth.
By getting regular prenatal massages, you can help ensure that your body is ready for the physical demands of labor and delivery.
What to expect during a prenatal massage
If you're considering getting a prenatal massage, you may be wondering what to expect.
Our Anchorage massage therapists are experienced in prenatal massage and make modifications to ensure the health, safety, and comfort of both you and your baby.
Our therapists will review your individual needs and preferences and come up with a massage that is designed just for you.
How do I lay during a prenatal massage?
Prenatal massage is typically performed with the woman lying on her side, supported by pillows, and with extra attention paid to the back, hips, and legs.
Our therapists will ensure you are comfortable during your massage.
Should I get a lymphatic drainage massage during my pregnancy?
Lymphatic drainage massage is another type of massage that can benefit you during your pregnancy by increasing lymphatic flow in the body.
It’s a technique that uses gentle, rhythmic movements to help stimulate the lymph nodes and clear toxins from the body.
What are the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage for expectant mothers?
There are many benefits to getting a lymphatic drainage massage during pregnancy. Here are just a few:
Reduces swelling and water retention
One of the main benefits of lymphatic drainage massage during pregnancy is that it can help reduce swelling and water retention. By promoting the movement of lymphatic fluid through the body, lymphatic drainage massage can help flush out excess fluid and reduce swelling in the legs, feet, and ankles. This can be particularly beneficial for women who experience edema (swelling caused by excess fluid) during pregnancy.
Improves circulation
Lymphatic drainage massage can also help improve circulation by stimulating the lymphatic system and promoting the movement of blood through the body. This can help deliver oxygen and nutrients to the cells and tissues, which can promote overall health and wellness.
Boosts the immune system
The lymphatic system is an essential part of the immune system, and lymphatic drainage massage can help improve its functioning. By promoting the movement of lymphatic fluid through the body, lymphatic drainage massage can help remove waste and toxins and boost the immune system. This can be particularly beneficial during pregnancy when the body is more vulnerable to illness.
Relieves pain and discomfort
Lymphatic drainage massage can also help relieve pain and discomfort during pregnancy. By reducing swelling and improving circulation, lymphatic drainage massage can help alleviate aches and pains in the legs, feet, and ankles. Lymphatic drainage massage can also promote relaxation and better sleep, which can be particularly beneficial for women who experience insomnia or other sleep disturbances during pregnancy.
When is the best time to get a lymphatic drainage massage during pregnancy?
Lymphatic drainage massage can be beneficial at any stage of pregnancy, but some women may find it more helpful during certain periods. For example, lymphatic drainage massage can be particularly beneficial during the second and third trimesters when water retention and swelling are more common.
It's important to talk to your healthcare provider before getting a lymphatic drainage massage to make sure it's safe for you and your baby.
Precautions to take before getting a prenatal massage
While prenatal massage is generally safe for most pregnant women, there are some precautions that you should take before getting a massage.
They can help determine if prenatal massage is safe for you and your baby and if there are any specific precautions that you should take.
Our massage therapists are familiar with the unique needs of pregnant women and adjust the massage to ensure the safety of you and your body.
The American Pregnancy Association says it’s safe to get a massage at any point in your pregnancy, although extra caution may need to be taken during the first trimester.
If you have any concerns, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before booking your prenatal massage.
How often should moms-to-be get prenatal massages?
The frequency of prenatal massages can vary depending on your individual needs and preferences.
Some women may choose to get a prenatal massage as often as once a week, while others may opt for a monthly massage.
It's important to listen to your body and talk to your healthcare provider to determine what is right for you.
Can I get a prenatal massage near me?
Yes! If you’re looking for a nearby massage service for prenatal or lymphatic drainage, look no further.
Anchorage Massage Therapies is conveniently located in the Turnagain and Spenard neighborhoods of Anchorage, although our clients come from all over the city to see our therapists.
How much does a prenatal massage in Anchorage cost?
At Anchorage Massage Therapies, we charge $115 for a 60-Minute Prenatal Massage and $160 for a 90-Minute Prenatal Massage. The rates are the same for a lymphatic drainage massage.
We also accept Blue Cross and Aetna insurance and would be happy to check with your provider to see if you have benefits that would cover prenatal or lymphatic drainage massage at our Anchorage massage therapy clinic.
Other ways to relieve pregnancy discomfort
While prenatal massage can be an effective way to relieve pregnancy discomforts, there are also other things that you can do to feel more comfortable during your pregnancy.
For example, regular exercise can help improve circulation and reduce back pain. You may also want to consider wearing compression stockings to help reduce swelling in your legs and feet.
Finally, it's important to get plenty of rest and practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing and meditation.
Conclusion
If you're a mom-to-be in Anchorage, prenatal massage is a must-have.
It can help alleviate physical discomforts, reduce stress and anxiety, and prepare your body for childbirth.
With regular prenatal massages, you can feel more comfortable and relaxed during your pregnancy and be better prepared for the physical demands of labor and delivery.
If you’re ready to be treated by one of our Anchorage, Alaska massage therapists, book an appointment today!