Touch for Two: The Many Benefits of Prenatal Massage

Massage is more than just relaxation, offering a number of health benefits beyond pain relief. An especially powerful application of massage is during pregnancy. Prenatal massage requires specialized training, and we’re so happy our Therapeutic Bodyworker Yolanda Cazares has brought that expertise to Energy Matters. Recently we chatted with Yolanda about what’s special about prenatal massage.

Why did you decide to train in prenatal massage?

While I have never been pregnant, I was close to my sister and some of my friends as they went through the wonderful transformation of becoming mothers. For them it was a time of discovery, joyful anticipation, and sometimes even anxiety. To me they seemed warm and radiant, very much like my orchids when they start growing little buds on their branches, so full of flowering energy, getting bigger day by day.

When I learned about pregnancy as a health condition in massage school, I was amazed by the incredible rebalancing that is orchestrated through the endocrine system. Learning that bodywork could offer extremely useful physical and emotional support during this time of change, made me wish I had known more about it earlier and inspired me to include prenatal massage as one of the modalities I practice. 

What are the benefits of these treatments?

The most familiar benefits of prenatal and postpartum massage include musculoskeletal pain reduction, increasing blood and lymph circulation, reducing edema and blood pressure, as well as promoting relaxation. Additionally, studies have shown that receiving massage reduces cortisol levels, which helps prevent postpartum depression. 

Sometimes people can become hyper vigilant and stressed during pregnancy (especially a first pregnancy!), what they feel in their body is new and unfamiliar, so excitement can be joined with anxiety. Receiving bodywork at this time can help them feel safe and grounded in their changing body. 

When can someone have prenatal massage and what are the treatments like?

Generally OK throughout pregnancy, although you should always check in with your doctor for personal recommendations. Especially in the later months of pregnancy, treatments can relieve tension and promote better sleep. Coming in closer to the due date can also make labor easier. Massage releases oxytocin and promotes relaxation, allowing for opening and flow! 

Pregnancy massage is usually done lying on the side, with padding and support, depending on what is comfortable and safe for your body. 

Postpartum massage offers an opportunity to relax and reconnect with your body as it returns to autonomy and the new realities after birth.

Yolanda Cazares CMT sees clients at Energy Matters on Tuesdays and Fridays. Click here to schedule or contact our clinic with questions about prenatal massage and Therapeutic Bodywork