Why Have a Prenatal Massage?
There are many ways a maternity massage, or prenatal massage, can support expectant mothers in Singapore.
- Relieves Pregnancy Discomforts: As the body undergoes profound musculoskeletal changes during pregnancy, prenatal massage offers a soothing reprieve by targeting areas of tension and poor circulation, easing discomforts such as back pain, neck pain, and swollen ankles.
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Beyond physical relief, prenatal massage lowers stress-inducing hormones and raising those that promote calm. This helps to stabilise the mood and alleviate pregnancy-related anxiety.
- Improves Circulation: The pressure from a growing uterus can restrict blood flow, leading to swelling. This limitation can be eased through gentle prenatal or lymph massages, which help support the optimal flow of fluids into soft tissues, promoting lymphatic function.
- Supports Sleep: Prenatal massage calms the body by easing muscle tension and reducing stress, promoting better sleep. It also stimulates serotonin, which supports melatonin—the hormone that regulates sleep—ensuring mothers-to-be enjoy balanced, restorative rest.
- Emotional Balance: Hormonal shifts during the prenatal stages can stir emotions. Through targeted maternity massages that promote relaxation, the body stabilises hormone levels, supporting a more balanced emotional state for expectant mothers.
- Potential Labour Benefits: Prenatal massage may ease labour discomfort by stimulating nerve endings that encourage relaxation. This can help regulate the body’s stress response and foster a sense of calm during childbirth.
Is Prenatal Massage Right for Me?
- Safety: Prenatal massage is generally safe when performed by a licensed maternity massage therapist. However, it’s always advisable to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy or any existing health complications.
- Timing: If you’re an expectant mother looking to enhance your maternity journey, the second trimester of pregnancy is generally the ideal period for you to get prenatal massages. However, as we’ve noted, always consult with your healthcare provider first to determine if you’re medically cleared to proceed.
- Personalised Care: Since every pregnancy journey is different, it is essential to communicate your needs to your prenatal massage therapist so they can adapt each session to your current trimester and specific discomforts.
Prenatal Massage vs Regular Massage
A massage might seem the same in every situation, but during pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes that require a different approach. So, what distinguishes prenatal massage from regular massage?
- Techniques & Pressure: A woman’s body becomes highly sensitive during pregnancy due to extensive physical and hormonal changes. Prenatal massage addresses this by using gentler approaches and lighter pressure compared to regular massages, focusing on safety and comfort for both the mother and the developing baby.
- Positioning: Unlike regular massage that can be performed in various positions, including prone (face down) and supine (on the back), prenatal massage considers the pregnant body’s unique needs. Positioning is carefully adapted, with side-lying being the recommended prenatal massage position for optimal comfort and safety.
- Focus Areas: While regular massage may address various muscle groups throughout the body, prenatal massage focuses on pregnancy-related discomforts, such as lower back and hip pain, as well as swelling in the feet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prenatal Massage
Can I get a prenatal massage if I have gestational diabetes or high blood pressure?
As gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or other pre-existing medical conditions already present health challenges or require careful management, we recommend checking with your healthcare practitioner to determine if a prenatal massage is suitable and won’t lead to further complications.
Are your prenatal massage experts certified and trained?
Yes, our prenatal massage experts are certified and trained to ensure expectant mothers can receive personalised and beneficial maternity massages.
Are your prenatal massage sessions offered in a private, comfortable setting?
Yes, our prenatal massage sessions at Ample Life are conducted in a private and serene setting, designed to provide expectant mothers with a comfortable and peaceful space to relax and rejuvenate. Following pregnancy, we continue to support your wellness with postnatal massages in a similar tranquil space.