Massage for pregnant women
Pregnancy is a time when women experience numerous changes, both physically and emotionally. It is a time in which it is important to pay increased attention to the needs of the body.
Massage for women in pregnancy is beneficial and soothing for both the mother and the fetus. It helps the system to function properly in times of these big changes; it integrates the system and helps the respiration as well as relaxing the tight skin. It enhances proper circulation of fluids (water, blood, lymph, and cranial-sacral fluids) which prevents retention of water in the body and swollen feet. It prevents formation of varices as well.
Other benefits of the massage are:
- relieving muscle tension that occurs due to higher weight,
- relaxing stress,
- leading towards general well-being of both the mother and the fetus,
- forming paths to mutual, optimal interconnection between the two,
- relieving back and sacral pain caused by the pregnancy.
Dr. Schmitt’s massage ensures more complex care of the pregnant woman due to its including the sides of the body.
Pregnant woman can be massaged in sitting position, lying on her side or back (in case of massaging her lower extremities).
The local counter indications with this kind of massage are palms of the hands, soles of the feet, abdomen, and certain reflection points in the area of the spine bone. Some conditions of inflammation and tumors can also be counter indicated.