Guidelines for Therapeutic Pregnancy Massage Therapy

Pregnant women today have the choice of receiving regular pregnancy massage therapy through all three trimesters in order to minimize their pains and aches while preparing the body for the process of childbirth. Maternity massage therapy is offered in the same professional therapeutic massage clinics that provide reflexology massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage and Swedish massage. Moreover, as a result of the complicated nature of pregnancy, there are more guidelines to follow for this massage modality.

Before deciding on massage therapy in San Diego check with a doctor prior to signing up for maternity massage, a pregnant woman should always get clearance from her obstetrician. All contraindications for maternity massage therapy should be cleared. The next step, which is just as critical, is to verify that the massage therapist performing the technique has been specifically trained on prenatal massage. It would be smart to ask for proof of credentials and licenses.

It is important for pregnant women to avoid excessive heat. Maternity massage therapy should, therefore, not include hot stone massage therapy, body wraps, steam rooms or heating blankets. Hydrotherapy which involves submersion in water may also be dangerous as the pregnant woman's cervix may also open and this should be avoided.

Leg and feet massage should be conducted only by expert massage therapists who are also knowledgeable in acupuncture. This is crucial so they know what areas of the leg and foot to avoid so they don't trigger uterine spasms and induce premature labor. In most cases, these points are near the heel, the web of the large toe, the ankle and the knee.

Once laid on the massage table, a pregnant woman really should not be allowed to lie flat on her back. The position of the uterus will put added pressure on several veins, blocking the flow of blood to the heart, making her dizzy. In many cases it can cause her to faint. It is also recommended for her to not lay face down on a massage table with a stomach cut out. According to a San Diego massage expert, gravity can draw the uterus down causing unsuitable strain on the tissue attaching it to the sacrum.

The number one position for a pregnant woman during maternity massage therapy is lying on her left side, slanting forward at a 45 degree angle. The same as the standard first aid position. Specially designed cushions and pillows may be provided to support the woman. For pregnancy massage, even more than for the other kinds of massage, it is essential to make certain that you receive the services of a exceptionally qualified and specially skilled massage professional from a trusted therapeutic massage clinic.