Massage therapy for pregnancy isn't just good for easing back and hip pain; it can also help with a variety of common discomforts. So whether you're suffering from insomnia, swelling, prematurity, low birth weight, or postpartum depression, massage therapy can help.

Reduces swelling

Pregnancy can be physically challenging, but massage therapy can help alleviate many of the symptoms that come with the pregnancy process. In addition, massage reduces swelling and improves circulation. This helps promote healthy and happy pregnancy and labor.

Swelling occurs during pregnancy as the growing baby puts pressure on the uterus. The pressure puts pressure on nearby nerves and muscles, causing swelling. If it happens suddenly, it may be an indication of preeclampsia, a condition that can be fatal.

Massage is especially helpful in cases of swelling. When the lymphatic system is blocked, waste products build up and cannot be removed. Massage stimulates the flow of lymph and increases the body's ability to remove these wastes.

Massage also decreases stress hormones. Stress hormones are known to cause depression. Relaxation hormones, on the other hand, help the body achieve a state of heightened well-being.

Lessens sciatic pain

Pregnancy massage is a non-narcotic treatment designed to help expectant mothers deal with the common discomforts of pregnancy. In addition to relieving pain and stress, massage also promotes relaxation, a healthy delivery, and helps prepare the body for childbirth.

Massage can be especially helpful in easing sciatica, a condition that can cause shooting pains down the back of the legs. While massage therapy is not a cure-all, it does provide relief for many women.

During pregnancy, the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the pelvic region swell, putting pressure on the spinal column. In turn, the lower back and hips become strained, causing sciatica. The resulting symptoms include pain and numbness in the leg.

Sciatica can worsen during sitting or standing. To prevent the problem, try to avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time. If you must sit, place a support pillow under your buttocks to take some pressure off the spine. You can also use a foam roller to apply pressure to your buttocks.

Eases insomnia

Massage therapy for pregnancy can help with common discomforts that most expectant mothers face. While a massage is not a cure-all, it can provide relief from headaches, joint pain, swelling, backaches, and insomnia. It is also an excellent form of relaxation and stress reduction.

For many women, the aches and pains of pregnancy begin earlier in the first trimester. As the uterus expands, it places pressure on the pelvic floor muscles and the lower back.

These changes can be very uncomfortable and may make it difficult to do everyday tasks. Pregnancy also causes significant hormonal fluctuations, which can lead to fatigue.

Some studies have shown that therapeutic massage during pregnancy can help alleviate common pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness and fatigue. In addition, massage therapy during labor can reduce labor time and relieve pain.

Reduces depression and anxiety

Pregnancy is a wonderful time, but it can also be an emotional time. While many women feel joy at every flutter, others experience depression and anxiety. There are a variety of ways to deal with these emotions, including talking to a healthcare provider and seeking support from family and friends.

One of the most important things you can do to decrease depression and anxiety during pregnancy is to seek help from a trained professional. Talking to a mental health professional can help you understand what symptoms you may be experiencing and help you decide whether you need to get treatment.

Another strategy is to engage in regular physical activity. Physical exercise releases feel-good brain chemicals that can help ease anxiety and depression. Taking a walk around your neighborhood or a hot bath are good examples of self-care.

Reduces prematurity, low birth weight, and postpartum depression

The results from a recent randomized controlled trial suggest that massage therapy during pregnancy may reduce the incidence of prematurity, low birth weight, and postpartum depression. These outcomes have important developmental consequences for babies in the early postpartum period. However, further investigation is necessary to determine if a massage has any other positive effects on pregnancy or neonatal health.

Massage can help alleviate stress, pain, and anxiety. In addition, the benefits of a therapeutic relationship have been shown to improve mood and mental health.

A group of women who received a combination of massage and group interpersonal psychotherapy had reduced depression after a 12-week therapy session. They also had lower levels of cortisol during the postpartum period.

In another study, pregnant mothers who had a 20-minute massage by a significant other were less depressed than those who did not receive the massage. Additionally, the group was less likely to experience a premature delivery and had a shorter hospital stay.