What is it?

Massage therapy for pregnant women in all stages of pregnancy. For many pregnant woment, their health concerns differ from our other clients but they also have many of the same discomforts - just layered with the growing baby. Many of the same massage therapy techniques can be used for our pregnant clients.  Some women may also find the practice of mindfulness and breathwork helpful as they near labor and delivery.  During the later stages of pregnancy when lying on one’s belly may not be possible, we use a sidelying position to work at relaxing tension related to pregnancy and daily life.  In fact, it is not uncommon for our therapists’ to use the sidelying position for clients who are not pregnant.  It is an extremely effective position for tension in the shoulders, hips and low back as well as the legs.  Extra pillows and bolsters are also used for comfort and support. 

All of our Sore Spots massage therapists have continued training in pregnancy massage.  We strive to ensure every mom has a relaxing, nourishing experience where they can connect to their body and baby in a positive way. 

What’s the research say about massage therapy & pregnancy?

One of the best areas of research for evidence-based massage therapy is in the area of infant & preganncy. A recent analysis of research for pregnancy massage proved the effectiveness in anxiety & depression reduction for expectant mothers (Abera et al., 2024).

While energy & general wellness can vary from pregnancy to pregnancy, most can assume that it is a substantial time of change in a woman, much less a family’s life. It's a time of physical change but can also be a time of increased sensitivity for mental health issues.

Mental health challenges may be treated with drug choices for the general public & the same can be said for pregnant women. However, many women may have an aversion to drug based treatment options ~ especially in the instance of non-clinical anxiety &/or depression. In life’s hustle & bustle, anxiety is common & may be more normalized even more during pregnancy due to cultural norms. Massage therapy is a safe way to help pregnant woman travel through all stages of maternity to reduce the symptoms associated with anxiety & depression. Let's set up the 'mother-to-be' in your life up for self-care success & book her a pregnancy massage here at Sore Spots. Relief for your mind, spirit & sore spots too!

Benefits

• Reduces tension in the lower back and hips

• Helps with sciatica and piriformis syndrome

• Promotes a mind – body connection

• Starts the baby bonding experience in utero

• Lowers stress and anxiety

History of Pregnancy Massage

Historically, we can find Ayurvedic texts from India prescribing prenatal massage practices for expecting mothers and to date, India has a strong practice for mothers and babies. 

In North America, outside of massage therapists, Doula’s are also advocates for touch therapy for it’s overall benefits and promotion of healthy touch in loving families.