Pregnancy Massage (Back to Top)

Pregnancy Massage is a form of bodywork designed specifically for pregnant women. Pregnancy is a time in which a woman’s body endures tremendous stress due to dramatic physical, mental, and emotional changes. Using various techniques specifically for the new mother, Pregnancy Massage helps alleviate discomforts experienced throughout the pregnancy.

The benefits are profound, including emotional support, the reduction of joint pain due to extra weight, improved breathing and relaxation, and relief from uncomfortable digestive issues.

Regular massage improves posture, muscle tone and flexibility, training your body for labor. As you learn to recognize and release tight muscles, you will feel better prepared for the demands of active birthing. Studies have shown that regular massage in pregnancy contributes to shorter, less painful labor and can reduce labor complications, medication, and interventions.

How does the massage work if you can't be on your belly? Pregnancy massage is done in the side-lying position. Using pillows, I will work on one side of your body and then the other. This position is most comfortable and safe.

After delivery, massage can speed up your recovery, releasing the stress of labor, healing from a C-section, and relief from the strain of caring for your child.

Massage is generally safe to begin immediately after a normal delivery. Continuing massage therapy after having your baby is strongly encouraged, allowing you to embrace motherhood with new energy.

Reference: New Life Journal, Rebecca Leary

Swedish Massage (Back to Top)

Swedish Massage is a very relaxing and therapeutic style of bodywork. It combines lotion with an array of strokes such as rolling, kneading, and percussion to help the body improve its circulation. The benefits of this type of bodywork are wide-ranging and include relief from aches and pains, decreased stress levels in the body, enhanced mental clarity, improved appearance, and greater flexibility.

This type of massage is perfect for those who are trying to get pregnant. Swedish Massage is also wonderful for the new mother during the postpartum period and beyond.

To learn more about Swedish Massage visit the American Massage Therapy Association at amtamassage.org

Birth Doula (Back to Top)

My Doula services include:

At least two Prenatal visits at your home: to review your wishes, answer any questions you may have and also allow for the partner to become familiar with the comfort measures we will use during the labor.

Telephone support throughout pregnancy.

Attendence at hospital for the labor. Providing support to both the mother and partner and keeping a log of events for future reference. Massage and comfort measures are provided as needed. Whether pain medication is chosen or not, I will do my best to help you have a positive experience.

If a ceserean is necessary, I will be available to comfort the partner and family members. I will stay until you are comfortable after the birth and help with breastfeeding, if needed.

After the birth we will have a postpartum visit to review the birth.

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