Massage and touch are powerful tools in supporting women to contact the wisdom of their bodies in pregnancy and birth and for parents to bond early with their developing child.

Prenatal
Massage during pregnancy can help to relieve backache and other areas of tension caused by postural changes. Specific techniques can reduce other pregnancy discomforts such as water retention, nausea, sinus congestion and heartburn and enhance the physiological and emotional well being of both mother and baby. Prenatal treatments can be carried out on a mat on the floor for greater comfort.

In addition, you can receive advice on breathing, posture and shown exercises that you can do at home to improve your well being during pregnancy and the postnatal period. In the third trimester your partner can be shown certain pressure points to help you with labour and pain relief.

Postnatal
Massage during the first few weeks of the postnatal period supports the recovery process. It can help to contract the uterus, tone the abdominal muscles, realign the pelvis, cleanse the body of waste products and residual anaesthetic and reduce tension caused by carrying and breastfeeding.

Postnatal exercises can be shown for home use. You can bring your baby with you for postnatal treatments up to the age of 3 months. These treatments are worked around the needs of both mother and baby.

Partner’s Massage Instruction
Massage instruction is available to partners who wish to help relieve pregnancy discomforts and later prepare for supporting the labouring mother as she gives birth. Stressed partners may also benefit from regular massage, to release tensions and promote overall relaxation.

Is prenatal massage for you?
Massage during pregnancy is completely safe for most women. If you are having any problems or complications with your pregnancy your therapist will require approval from your primary health care provider before proceeding with any bodywork.