As more and more expectant mothers turn to massage as a way to ease the aches and pains of impending motherhood, pregnancy massage (also known as prenatal massage) is becoming an increasingly popular specialization among massage therapists. It can also serve as a great way to increase income, since many women are willing to pay more for the specialization that comes with pregnancy massage.

In order to operate as a responsible and lawsuit-free massage therapist, it is highly recommended to get the appropriate training before attempting prenatal massage as a specialization. Although there is no official "prenatal massage therapist" title, many practitioners take specific courses or continuing education credits in order to learn all there is to know about the practice.

Pregnancy Massage Equipment

Although some types of prenatal massage can be performed by having the expectant mother lie on her side (rather than in the traditional face-down position) during the procedure, many prenatal massage practitioners turn to specialized equipment. Pregnancy massage tables have an indented or cut-out section where the mother's belly and breasts can rest comfortably, although some practitioners find that the lack of support causes additional muscle strain on the belly. Extra-padded massage table tops are also fairly common, and massage practitioners can also consider special pillows that allow mothers to rest on their backs (in a semi-sitting position) during the massage.

Benefits of Pregnancy Massage

Prenatal massage is known to do a number of things in easing the discomfort of pregnancy. It can relieve stress, decrease some of the swelling and water retention that accompanies pregnancy, reduce pain in muscles and joints, and increase circulation. Many women find that turning to massage is a preferable alternative to taking medication, which is carried over to the fetus and may have harmful side effects.

Some studies also indicate that regular massage during pregnancy can help reduce the onset of post-partum depression after the baby is born. Though not all medical professionals are on board with this theory, the idea is that prenatal massage reduces stress hormones, thereby increasing the likelihood of a safe pregnancy, an easy deliver, and a quick recovery. When combined, these are expected to contribute to a lower onset of depression for the new mother during the first year of the baby's life.

Many women also turn to massage during their actual labor. Sometimes known as massage doulas, these practitioners use massage to shorten labor, reduce pain, improve the odds of a natural birth, and simply make women more comfortable.

The emotional side effects of massage are also part of the reason why it is such a popular trend. Whether women opt for the relaxation offered by massage in the second trimester, the pain relief of massage during the last few months, or post-partum massage to get all their muscles back in shape after giving birth, there is no discounting the moral benefits of massage. Quiet music, a serene atmosphere, and the connection of physical touch have been known to do wonders to ease what is quite possibly the most stressful time of a woman's life.

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