Prenatal massage is not a technique necessarily, but a massage that recognizes that the client is pregnant and must be properly cared for in the positions the client is asked to lie in for the mother and baby's health.

Depending on which trimester the client is in, the Massage Therapist will adjust to making the massage comfortable for the client. When the massage is focusing on the back, a pregnancy pillow is provided to support proper positioning on the client's side. The Massage Therapist does an excellent job in being gentle and helpful in assisting the client in maneuvering to find that comfortable position. When the massage is focusing on the shoulders, arms, neck, and legs the client is either slightly elevated under the hip or semi reclined to prevent the client from lying flat on their back and to reduce strain on the lower back and pelvis.

The actual technique that the Massage Therapist uses depends on the symptoms the clients is experiencing and whether or not they request a specific technique such as deep tissue, swedish, reflexology, etc.

The results from massage when a client is pregnant are many things in addition to stress reduction and relaxation. It can build the Immune System and removes toxins for the client. It certainly stabilizes hormone levels, that can cause pregnany--depression and anxiety. It also balances the glandular system and stimulates the lymphatic system.

All this plus! perks for each trimester's symptoms. Of course these depend on the technique used, but generally:

First Trimester Perks:

• Relieves tension-headaches
• Helps alleviate morning sickness
• Reduces fatigue

Second Trimester Perks:

• Alleviates the achy back
• Relieves leg cramps
• Relaxes stiff neck

Third Trimester Perks:

• Reduces swelling/edema
• Relieves the pain of varicose veins
• Promotes sleep
• Relieves joint pain
• Relaxes nervous tension
• Prepares pelvic muscles for birthing

NOTE! The client is asked to have obtained approval from their obstetrician before receiving a massage.

The Massage Therapist is trained to perform prenatal massage and knows trigger points on the body to pass over because of the pregnancy. The client may feel free to ask as many questions as they wish. Often clients ask where those trigger points are to avoid. The Massage Therapist is always happy to educate their clients as they are interested.

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