7.1: Introduction
Massages are often perceived as a form of relaxation and this is very true in almost every case but as masseuse you will be treating people for medical conditions also. There is of course, many babies born every second across the world and pregnancy massage is a niche market that any masseuse can capitalise on. People are always going to give birth so your earning potential could be very good if choose to gain a qualification in this area.
The goals of pregnancy massage or prenatal massage is similar to regular massage in that it aims to ease muscle tension, induce relaxation, stimulate circulation and alleviate pain. Pregnancy massage techniques are considered a remedial therapy which is intended to suit the needs of expectant mothers. When a woman becomes pregnant, her body undergoes several changes that sometimes cause pain and discomfort. Women experience a host of physical, psychological and structural changes that include weight gain, hormonal imbalances as well as a lowered pelvic floor. Therapists must undergo extensive training and possess in-depth knowledge of pregnancy massage in order to ensure that they are able to provide a reliable service to clients. Pregnancy massage is a safe and non-invasive therapy that can be availed of at any stage of pregnancy. It is recommended for women who are experiencing pain as well as for those who simply wish to incorporate massage as a healthy initiative. Pregnancy massages are not only beneficial for expectant mothers but also for the unborn baby.
7.2: What is a Pregnancy Massage?
A pregnancy massage is a broad term covering any type of pre or postnatal massage at any period. This type of massage usually lasts an hour like most other forms of massage. Some masseuses use a special pregnancy table that is designed to accommodate the shape of a pregnant woman. One can also use special pillows so the woman can be positioned comfortably on either side during the session. During the later stages of pregnancy a woman is at her most comfortable when laying on her side.
7.3: Studied Benefits of Pregnancy Massage
Most obvious benefits reported about the success of pregnancy massage come from the pregnant women themselves. Positive feedback has proven that the massage therapy can decrease lower back and leg pain, lower anxiety or postnatal blues, improve regular sleep cycles, decrease production of stress hormones such as norepinephrine. Many women suffer from depression after pregnancy or during, research has shown that pregnancy massage can also increase the secretion of serotonin and dopamine in them. Decrease stress chemical cortisol and promote a better sense of wellbeing in individuals.
7.4: Safe Practice for Pregnancy Massage
There are many different types of pregnancy massage taught through different therapy training programmes.
Common methods include:
Deep tissue massage using firm strokes and pressure on muscles
Swedish massage- longer strokes giving attention to muscles and flexibility
Shiatsu- involving pressure and tapping, focusing on acupuncture points that stimulate qi- the body's natural energy
Many people still cannot place a finger directly on what makes massage therapy so effective on patients. But feedback and word of mouth make it hard to argue that the methods and techniques do not work. Pregnancy massage professionals adapt their skills to accommodate the changes in a woman's body when she is pregnant. Blood volume can dramatically increase by up to 50%. Blood flow to the legs can make them less mobile, anticoagulants naturally rise in the blood stream to prevent any severe loss of blood or haemorrhage. Certain changes can increase the risk of blood clots in the lower leg regions, especially the inner thighs and calf muscles. Pregnancy massages should avoid deep tissue massage or strong pressure on the legs at any time. This pressure could move a blood clot and cause very serious problems.
Using lighter, slow strokes is a much safer approach. Different types of massage that should be avoided on the legs includes cross-fibre friction, percussive tapping, shiatsu and deep acupressure. All pregnancy massage leg strokes should move towards the heart and in line with natural blood flow. If one is going to massage the stomach then use very light pressure on the entire abdomen. Some therapists avoid massaging the area all together.
7.5: How Safe is Pregnancy Massage?
Some doctors will hesitate in advising women to get a massage during pregnancy as there is such a big variation in training methods. There is also a current lack of valid certifications that meet high standards in many countries. Some countries do not have a set minimum of the amount of training a masseuse must have before they massage pregnant women. One of the least common times for women to have pregnancy massages is during the first trimester as it is believed to be a time of higher risk. Because of this many therapists will not give a pregnant woman therapy in this time as it can increase the chance of miscarriage. Whilst it is not said to directly cause miscarriage you must protect yourself against any liability issues by avoiding practise in this time. In simpler terms, the less risks taken the better with pregnancy. Most governing bodies of massage therapy in countries do strongly advise that one should always consult a doctor before booking any sessions.
7.6: When Should Somebody Avoid Pregnancy Massage?
A conservative approach is traditional in pregnancy massage, in western society many doctors simply advise women to never have pregnancy massage but there is always exceptions. There is no rules set in stone and you must always use your best judgement with pregnancy massage.
If patients experience nausea, vomit or morning sickness. Suffer a higher than normal risk of miscarriage, have high risk pregnancy issues like placenta abruption or premature labor then avoid giving patients pregnancy massage. A masseuse always needs written permission from a doctor with a produced liability waiver before any massage therapy is done.
7.7: How Much Massage Therapy Training is Needed for Pregnancy Massage?
This section of the course is only an introduction to pregnancy massage - if you wish to specialize in this form of massage you will need to undertake further training. Most such massage therapy courses take about 500 hours to complete and for good reasons- there is a lot to learn.
These courses may not include specific training on pregnancy massage so you need to seek out courses that definitely offer this area if you wish to become certified. Always select a course that offers as much training as possible and contact your local governing body to find out more vital information. These laws will vary in different countries.
7.8: Step by Step Guide for Pregnancy Massage
Help your client get into a comfortable position and start by performing a gentle relaxing massage. Pregnant women are more prone to stress due to hustle and bustle. Just rub your hands up and down her back or loosen up her stiff shoulders. Make sure you have several pillows at hand; if you can order specially contoured pillows. Ask your client if she is comfortable before commencing the massage.
Legs and Feet
Start by massaging the legs. Use effleurage strokes from the feet to the buttocks three times. Give the client a foot massage by applying pressure on the arch of the foot. Repeat the foot massage about 8 times as pregnant women experience ache in their foot. Circle and gently pull at the toes. Circle the heel area. Now knead the calf muscle 8 times. Knead the back of the thigh and work your way up to the buttocks. Continue kneading the front of the thigh and repeat about 5 to 6 times. With your palms, rack the thigh up to the buttocks. Now use palmer kneading (using alternate hands) to massage the area round the buttocks.
Back
Massage the back using kneading from the spine outwards to the trapezius muscle. Continue kneading to the count of 8 and then apply appropriate pressure when working your way down the back. Now massage the shoulders using kneading as well as alternate outward massage movements. Apply pressure on the occipital muscle (at the base of the skull) for a count of 8, and massage the base of the neck. Perform a gentle and relaxing scalp massage with your fingers as if you are shampooing the head.
Hands and Arms
Use long effleurage strokes from the fingers to the shoulder about 3 times on each arm. Now circle each finger and gently pull each one. You can entwine your fingers with the client and perform a drainage massage on the hand. This will help drain toxins from between the metacarpals. Other techniques involve deep grinding using knuckles or even elbows on the palm; drain away towards fingers. Place your hands in the client's hands and gently move the hand in a forward and backward movement. Now use effleurage strokes form the elbow to the shoulder and knead the area of the upper arm. Now request the client to turn over on the other side and repeat all the movements again.
7.9: Massage Oils for Pregnancy Massage
It's best not to use concentrated essential oils with overpowering fragrances. Dilute all the essential oils that you use with at least 1 teaspoon of base oil. Sweet almond oil and grape- seed oil are recommended carrier oils for pregnancy massage. Recommended essential oils include German chamomile, peppermint, frankincense, eucalyptus and bergamot. You can also consider using spearmint, geranium and tea tree oil. It's advisable not to use basil, lavender, rosemary, sage and juniper berry for pregnancy massages.
Lessons Learned
In this module you have learned about pregnancy massage and how it can possibly benefit pregnant women. We have also discussed the sensitive nature of pregnant women and how cautious you must be when giving them a massage. You understand that not all doctors want to give pregnancy massages due to certain health concerns. You know what to avoid in order to protect the baby, client and yourself throughout the procedure. It is vital that you learn this module perfectly as this type of massage carries a great deal of responsibility.
.svg)
