Pregnancy Massage

As many expectant mothers soon realise, carrying a baby shifts a woman’s centre of gravity and places stress on the back, neck and shoulders. Pregnancy also relaxes ligaments and causes the pelvic joints to become less stable, thereby changing posture and pulling the pelvis forward.

Pregnancy, therefore, brings with it a variety of side effects, some less pleasant than others. Most mothers can expect to experience some muscular tension and stiffness during their pregnancy as their uterus expands to accommodate their growing baby.

Fortunately, massage therapy during pregnancy can often relieve many of the common side effects of backaches, headaches, oedema and other pregnancy related problems. Prenatal massage is increasingly gaining popularity as women recognise the benefits massage has to offer both physically and psychologically.

The Treatment

Pregnancy massage is massage therapy specifically tailored for the expectant mother's needs. It is also called pre-natal massage. Treatments can be performed either in a massage chair or lying on your side on a massage couch - fully supported with soft cushions and blankets.

Please note that pregnancy massage cannot be performed at all during the first trimester.

Treatment Benefits

Relaxation - massage during pregnancy helps to stop the buildup of tension, especially In the neck and shoulders. In the later stages of pregnancy tension in the lower back caused by the extra weight of the baby can be alleviated
Uplifting and revitalising - massage increases the flow of endorphins and minimises fatigue - usually felt at the start and end of pregnancy
Improves circulation - veins often become more apparent in pregnancy and there is a tendency to varicose veins
Stimulation of lymphatic drainage - this is especially important during pregnancy because of an increased tendency to fluid retention in ankles and feet
Relief of aches and pains - massage relieves aches and pains caused by distended ligaments and also the tendency to cramp
Maintains skin suppleness and elasticity - helping to prevent stretch marks which often appear around the fifth month
Induces a feeling of well-being - keeping the client relaxed and in harmony, preparing her for the birth.

Before and After your Treatment

Here is some guidance on what to do to prepare for your treatment along with what you can expect after the treatment too

Try to avoid eating a large meal at least 1 hour before your treatment. Please also refrain from consuming alcohol or using other substances before any treatment or therapy.
Arrive on time. This insures that you don’t arrive flustered and stressed. It also means that you will get the most out of your treatment. We ask all clients to arrive 10-15 minutes before their treatment is due to begin.
Talk to your therapist. If you are concerned or anxious about anything to do with your treatment let us know. We want to make sure you are comfortable and relaxed.
We ask our clients to ensure they arrive clean and ready for their treatment. If you are coming straight from work or the gym, please let us know and we can arrange for the use of our shower facilities before the treatment. (A surcharge will apply).
All new clients will need to complete a full medical and lifestyle questionnaire before their treatment. All existing clients will need to complete a treatment record card before any subsequent treatments. This is to ensure we can provide you with the best possible care and to comply with our insurance policies.
Please wear loose comfortable clothing and appropriate underwear. For any spa treatments, a robe will be provided for your comfort.

Everyone client has to complete a medical and lifestyle questionaire on their first visit - we ask you to arrive early (approximately 20 minutes) to allow you time to complete this in our relaxation area. On every subsequent visit you will be asked to confirm that none of the details have changed. This is primarily for your protection and to ensure we are aware of any contra-indications before providing tretment. It is also a requirment of our insurers.

Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins; massage aids the removal of toxins from the body
Coffee, tea and cola should be avoided as they contain caffeine. Aim to drink two glasses of water after each drink of tea or coffee if not. Or try to drink herbal infusions in place of tea or coffee
Avoid any headache tablets as these too contain caffeine
Avoid eating a heavy meal. Eat a light and natural diet, as refined and processed foods add to the toxicity levels within the body and hinder the natural healing process
Do not smoke or drink alcohol for the next 24 hours. Alcohol and smoking are counter-productive as they increase the levels of toxins in the body.

Healing Crisis

Some people may experience the following after treatment: