Best Pregnancy Massage Portland
Pregnancy massage is a great way for pregnant women to take care of themselves and their baby reduce stress and relax, while also help reduce some of the pain, swelling, and sleeplessness that can occur during pregnancy. Luna Spa PDX offers the best Prenatal Massage, Portland, Oregon has to offer by providing a highly tailored experience to each individual’s specific stage of pregnancy. They are the highest rated Portland Spa that specializes in Pregnancy Massage.
In fact, I spoke with the owner at LunaSpa PDX, Dr. Becky Higginson a Prenatal Chiropractor Specialist and she said “At LunaSpa PDX, the massage practitioners here have a ton of training in prenatal massage. All of our therapists are required to have at least 2 years of experience doing prenatal massage, and hold prenatal massage certificates. All of our practitioners are super passionate about the work that they do.”
Speaking with her was inspiring, as when she was a kid, she saw the benefits of chiropractic, and wanted to specialize in pediatric chiropractic, but then fell in love with pregnancy chiropractic as she made her way through her own pregnancies.
Another thing Becky says that sets LunaSpa PDX apart is “Our massage beds are made to be super comfortable for pregnant women. We use all kinds of memory foam pillows, the option to lay face down in early pregnancy, and also with sidelying setups. In the coming year, 2023, we are wanting to become more of a community space, offering community acupuncture, meditation circles, and support groups so that mom’s can talk with one another and get support they need to be great mamas!”
The Benefits of Pregnancy Massage
As we continue this article we’ll talk about how to have the best pregnancy massage experience, some of the common questions that people have, and the benefits
Some of the benefits of pregnancy massage include:
- Reduced muscle tension and joint pain
- Improved circulation
- Improved sleep quality
- Stress reduction
- Reduce swelling
- improve posture
- Reduce discomfort associated with the many physical changes that occur during pregnancy
- Provide relief from the physical and emotional stress of pregnancy
- Injury prevention for the mother
- Relief from headaches
But that’s not all, let’s answer some the common questions that people have about getting a massage while pregnant.
Is it OK to get a massage while pregnant?
The answer to the question of if it’s ok to get a massage while pregnant is generally yes, as long as a few precautions are taken. Getting a massage while pregnant is generally considered safe. It is important to let the massage therapist know that you are pregnant, as the therapist may need to adjust the massage technique accordingly. Also, it is best to get a massage during your second trimester, when the risk of miscarriage is lower. But, it is important to speak with your doctor first, to make sure that a massage is the best option for you. You can talk to the doctors at LunaSpa PDX if you’re unsure!
What do they do in a pregnancy massage?
During pregnancy, your massage therapist will use techniques such as effleurage (long, gliding strokes), petrissage (kneading of the deeper muscles), and tapotement (gentle tapping). The goal of these techniques so she can feel better in her body during the transformation her body goes through during the different phases of pregnancy. Your massage therapist will also use specific positions to help the pregnant woman relax and to ensure that the baby is safe.. Your therapist may also use hot or cold compresses, specific stretches, and other techniques to provide extra relief from pain and discomfort. This type of massage is a great way for pregnant women to relax and to help them prepare their for childbirth, releasing tension from the hips, low back, and legs, as well as help address tension in other areas of the body too.
What areas should not be massaged during pregnancy?
It is important to note that there are some areas that should not be massaged during pregnancy, as doing so can cause harm to the mother and/or baby. These areas include the abdomen, lower back, and sacrum, as well as the inner leg as this may increase the risk of blot clots. Massaging these areas during pregnancy can cause increased pressure on the uterus, and cause other risks, which can cause contractions and preterm labor. Additionally, massage therapists should avoid massaging any areas that are painful or tender, and not massage certain acupoints that may stimulate childbirth. During pregnancy, the body is undergoing many physiological changes, and some areas may become more sensitive. Massaging these areas can lead to discomfort, and even cause harm to the mother and/or baby. Finally, massage therapists should avoid massaging any area that is swollen or inflamed like your calves and feet,. Swelling is common during pregnancy, and massaging these areas can cause further inflammation and pain.
When is the best time to get pregnancy massage?
The best time to get a pregnancy massage is during the second trimester, typically between weeks 14–28 of your pregnancy. During this time your body continues to adjust to the growing baby. During this time, your body is already producing more hormones, so a massage can help balance hormones like relaxin and balancing other hormones helpful in moving the pregnancy along. A pregnancy massage is also beneficial during the third trimester, usually between weeks 28–40. During this time, your body is preparing for childbirth, so working on the hips and low back can make delivery easier for you. As your baby grows, your weight will increase and your body may need a bit of extra support. A massage can help to reduce any aches and pains you may be feeling as your body adjusts to its new shape.
Do you lay on your stomach during a prenatal massage?
Laying on your stomach during a prenatal massage is not recommended during the second or third trimester, but is generally considered safe for the first few weeks of pregnancy. During the second and third trimester, laying on your belly can press on the organs and the growing uterus puts pressure on the vena cava, a large vein that returns blood to the heart, which can cause a decrease in blood pressure. Laying on your belly can also make it difficult to breathe, as the extra weight of the baby can press on the diaphragm. Lying on your stomach can also put stress on the lower back, which can be uncomfortable. Instead, it is recommended to lay on your side.
What is the difference between prenatal massage and regular massage?
Prenatal massage is a type of massage specifically tailored to the needs of pregnant women regular massage, on the other hand, is designed usually focused more on relaxation. While prenatal massage is beneficial for pregnant women, regular massage can be used to alleviate pain and tension in non-pregnant individuals. The main difference between prenatal massage and regular massage lies in the massage techniques and positions pregnant women lay in during their massage.
How far along can you get a prenatal massage?
Great question, massage therapists who are properly trained and certified in prenatal massage can perform massage for pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy.
Contraindications for Pregnancy Massage
If you’re at all worried about any of the potentially harmful symptoms of pregnancy massage, please consult your doctor and read the following article: https://www.webmd.com/baby/pregnancy-and-massage
Conclusion
In conclusion, pregnancy massage is a highly beneficial service for pregnant women, providing them with much-needed relief from discomfort and promoting relaxation and overall well-being. For those looking for a specialized pregnancy massage spa, finding one with extensive training in prenatal massage, such as the one described in this article, is key.
Not only does this spa have the necessary certification and experience, but they also have a range of specialized equipment and setups to ensure that pregnant women are as comfortable as possible during their massages. This attention to detail is what sets them apart and makes them a top choice for expectant mothers.
Furthermore, this pregnancy massage spa is not just a place for massages but also serves as a community space. By offering other services such as community acupuncture, meditation, and groups for moms to connect and talk, they are building a supportive network for women during pregnancy and beyond.
Overall, the benefits of pregnancy massage are clear, and finding a specialized spa that goes above and beyond in terms of service and community support can make all the difference for expectant mothers.
Pregnancy Massage Articles:
Is it safe to get a massage while pregnant?
Can I get foot massage while pregnant?
How should I lie for a massage while pregnant?
Can you use deep heat when pregnant?
What week should you get a pregnancy massage?
How late in pregnancy can you get a massage?
What pressure points should be avoided during pregnancy?
Can I lay on my stomach for massage while pregnant?
What is the most comfortable position for pregnancy massage?
Pregnancy massage benefits
Safe, effective pregnancy massage techniques
Concerns and precautions for pregnancy massage
Lower back pain relief techniques
Reducing swelling in pregnancy massage
Improved sleep quality with pregnancy massage
Pregnancy massage for sciatic pain
Anxiety and depression relief and pregnancy massage
Preparing for labor with massage
Managing nausea and vomiting
Pregnancy massage and fetal development
Carpal tunnel relief techniques
Improved digestion with pregnancy massage
Effective communication with pregnant clients
High-risk pregnancy massage considerations
