Specific Benefits of Massage During Pregnancy and Postpartum:

• Reduces stress and anxiety and promotes relaxation through emotional support and physical nurturing, also contributing to the well-being of the fetus.
• Reduces high blood pressure and edema (swelling) of the extremities.
• Stimulates glandular secretions, stabilizing hormone levels and making their emotional side effects less severe.
• Increases circulation of the lymphatic system resulting in more energy and less fatigue.
• Greatly reduces strain and pain in the muscles of the shoulders, lower back and abdomen during the final months of pregnancy and in the postpartum period.
• Helps to sedate the nervous system, facilitating much needed rest and relaxation during both pregnancy and postpartum.
• Abdominal massage during the postpartum period promotes involution of the uterus.

Massage is also wonderful for fathers and partners in helping to ease the sometimes tumultuous transition into parenthood.