Find relief from the less glamorous
parts of pregnancy.
Pregnancy is a beautiful, awe-inspiring experience! A heavy belly, aching back, swollen ankles, and fatigue are some of its not-so-nice accompaniments. Get some relief with a soothing prenatal massage from Panache Salon & Spa. Treat yourself, a loved one, or a friend to a relaxing prenatal massage from Panache.
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What is a prenatal massage (and what makes it unique)?
A prenatal massage is a relaxing massage specifically tailored to alleviate the physical discomfort and fatigue related to pregnancy.
Our trained massage therapists adjust their techniques to the changing bodies of pregnant women. The overall pressure is gentler and lighter than in a regular massage. The strokes used tend to be long and gliding – a technique known as effleurage. Additionally, some areas and pressure points may be avoided during certain stages of your pregnancy.
Benefits of Prenatal Massage Treatments
A prenatal massage carries many of the benefits of other massage treatments. It can boost both your emotional and physical health. Clients most often experience:
- Improved circulation
- Increased energy
- Diminished back and hip pain
- Headache relief
- Reduced leg cramps and swollen ankles
- Stress reduction and relaxation
- Improved quality of sleep
Prepare for Your Prenatal Massage at Panache Salon
Any tips as I prepare for my pregnancy massage?
- Stay hydrated. Drink extra water before and after your massage. Massages of any kind can be dehydrating.
- Of course, let your therapist know if you need a bathroom break. The extra water and a squashed pregnancy bladder will likely make it necessary.
- Listen to your body and talk to the therapist during the massage. Let them know what feels good, what causes discomfort, or if something starts to hurt.
- Relax and enjoy your prenatal massage – being pampered during your pregnancy is a GOOD thing!
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Have Questions About Prenatal Massage Treatments?
Can any massage therapist give a prenatal massage?
A prenatal massage should only be performed by a qualified massage therapist who has received additional training in prenatal massage techniques. Your prenatal massage at Panache Salon & Spa is done by a massage therapist with the required certifications.
Will I need my doctor’s authorization to have a prenatal massage?
We require that you fill out a medical history form before the massage. And, yes, in some cases we may also ask that authorization is provided by your OB-GYN.
When can I get a pregnancy massage?
The prenatal massage treatment at Panache Salon & Spa is available only after the first trimester of pregnancy.
What positions are safe for a prenatal massage?
Lying on your back is not usually recommended after about week 20 of your pregnancy. So, a prenatal massage is most often done with you on your side, propped up by pillows. Other common positions are sitting upright and semi-reclining.
Some massage therapists use a special table with cutouts and cushions to better accommodate your growing belly and breasts. This makes it possible to lie face-down during your massage.
Do I have to undress for a pregnancy massage?
The massage is usually done with you in your underwear. Towels are placed over parts of you that are not currently being worked on.
Ultimately, however, you decide how much or how little clothing you feel comfortable wearing during your massage. The massage therapist is trained to work with your decision, without diminishing the quality of your massage.
Are there any precautions to getting a pregnancy massage?
A prenatal massage is usually not recommended in high-risk or complicated pregnancies. Conditions of concern include:
- Pre-eclampsia or high blood pressure
- Abdominal pain or bleeding
- Blood clots or a clotting disorder
- High risk of preterm labor
- Diabetes
- Placenta previa or any other issues with your placenta
How often should I get a prenatal massage during my pregnancy?
Once or multiple times – it’s totally up to you!
However, having prenatal massages throughout your pregnancy is a good idea. Appointments follow the same schedule as your prenatal appointments with your OB-GYN. This would mean:
- Once a month up to week 27
- Twice a month up to week 36
- Weekly, thereafter, until you give birth
Some expectant moms request to have labor stimulation added to the massage at week 39-40.
What about a postpartum massage?
After welcoming your little bundle of joy, you may opt to have a postpartum or postnatal massage. It has been shown to have overall health benefits and to speed recovery.
Once your pregnancy and delivery were both without any major complications, you may have a postpartum massage as soon as you feel ready to have one. If you had a cesarean section, it is recommended that you wait for the scar to heal first – about 6 weeks.