Use Of Essential OilsThe massage therapist may use essential

oils during your massage. Since many havephysical effects on the body, you should beaware of the oils the therapist may use. Oilsthat have stimulating effects should be avoid-ed, such as basil, cinnamon, cedarwood, andpeppermint. Clary sage should also be avoid-ed as it can initiate labor. The following arerecommended as safe for use during pregnan-cy: lavender to relieve nausea, headaches,and constipation; neroli and ylang-ylang mayhelp reduce stretch marks.

Doctor’s ApprovalIt is very important you obtain approval

from your obstetrician before receiving anyform of massage during pregnancy.

Maternity Massage

Compliments Of:

© 2006 Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals

member

Chuck PeckCertified & LicensedMassage Therapist

4757 East Languid LaneCave Creek, AZ 85331Ph# (480) 575-1374

Swedish, ReflexologyDeep Tissue, Chair &

Energy Work

Massage during pregnancy is also a great way torelieve everyday tension and the general aches andpains your body is suffering. It stimulates your lym-phatic system, increasing immunity and theremoval of excess toxins, while also stabilizing hor-monal levels and balancing the glandular system.

How Will I Receive My

Massage?When receiving pregnancy massage, you are posi-

tioned on your side to give the therapist access toyour back or in a semi-reclining position for massageon the front of your body. Your body will be sup-ported with pillows or special cushions. Some thera-pists may have pillows specifically designed forpregnant women, including a “breakaway tummy”to support the pelvic area while lying on your stom-ach. You will be properly draped while the therapistis working, except for the area being massaged.

What Techniques Will Be Used?Many pregnancy massage specialists integrate a

variety of techniques into their work. Dependingon where you are in the pregnancy, the therapistmay utilize reflexology, Swedish massage, or verylight shiatsu.

Are There Times When

Massage During Pregnancy

Should Be Avoided?Women with normal, low-risk pregnancies can

benefit greatly from massage by a trained pregnan-cy massage therapist. However, women in high-riskpregnancies should consult with their doctor ormidwife before beginning a massage therapy pro-gram. If at any time during the massage you experi-ence discomfort, tell the therapist immediately.

What About Massage After

Delivery Of My Baby?Massage during the weeks after delivery helps

to restore muscle tone in the abdomen and repo-sition the pelvis.

And remember, touch is a very important partof bonding with your baby. Ask about receivinginstruction in massaging your baby.

Why Massage During

Pregnancy?Massage during pregnancy not only makes a

woman feel pampered, but offers undeniablephysical benefits as well. Massage can relievefatigue, enhance sleep, and calm an active baby.

First Trimester• Relieve headaches• Help alleviate morning sickness• Reduce fatigue

Second Trimester• Alleviate backaches• Relieve leg cramps

Third Trimester• Reduce swelling/edema• Relieve pain from varicosities• Enhance sleep• Prepare pelvic muscles for birth

process

During the entire term of the pregnancy, mas-sage can stimulate blood flow, which may assistin the prevention of anemia. An increase in mus-cle tone and flexibility will occur, alleviating legcramps and muscle spasms.