Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Won't somebody please think of the children?

Pregnant women need massages.



Despite what the above photo depicts, we don't need belly massages; we need everything-else- massages.

Pregnant women need massages!

Not a back tickle, not a shoulder rub, but a full body massage.  The fuller the body becomes, the fuller it needs to be massaged - true!  And partners... please, defer to professionals.  You've done enough, and your lady deserves a bona fide massage.  Stick with foot rubs and emotional support, m'kay?

Prenatal massage is a necessity.  Physically, the pregnant woman's body is changing so rapidly; things growing, loosening, stretching.  The normal spinal curves are exaggerated as the center of gravity shifts forward.  Pain is so common that it is taken as 'normal'.  But there is nothing normal about pain, and no pain so severe that we can't, at the very least, lessen it.  Particularly at a time when pain-killers aren't an option, body work becomes that much more important.  There is simply no need to suffer.

Expecting women are often nervous about any intervention - but rest assured that prenatal massage is safe.  Registered massage therapists are trained to meet the special needs of pregnant women, and there are a variety of ways to position you for maximum comfort and safety.  The therapist may change the pressure and stroke over your low back or other sensitive areas, and will avoid applying heat near the baby.

Physical benefits aside, massage is a wonderful relaxation tool.  And it's a hell of a lot easier to get a massage while the baby is tucked away quiet inside (and not screaming on the outside... ) - enjoy this time!  Besides, happy mom = happy baby...its no longer just about you!

Yup - book a prenatal massage... you owe it to your baby!