Prenatal and postnatal massage are specialized forms of massage therapy that are designed to support and nurture women during pregnancy and the postpartum period. These massages are typically performed by massage therapists who have received specific training in prenatal and postnatal care.
Prenatal massage focuses on addressing the unique physical and emotional needs of pregnant women. It can help to alleviate discomforts such as back pain, sciatic pain, swelling, headaches, and fatigue. Prenatal massage techniques are adapted to accommodate a woman’s changing body and hormonal fluctuations. The therapist will typically position the pregnant woman in a comfortable side-lying or semi-reclined position and use gentle, soothing strokes to promote relaxation and relieve tension.
Postnatal massage, on the other hand, is designed to support the body’s recovery after childbirth. It can help to alleviate muscle tension, improve circulation, reduce stress, and promote healing. Postnatal massage may also help to address issues such as breastfeeding difficulties, scar tissue from C-sections, and postpartum depression.