Prenatal Massage and Bodywork
Safety First
The first thing that may come to mind when considering prenatal bodywork is the safety of both mom and baby.
Prenatal massage is considered safe by ACOG in healthy, uncomplicated pregnancies. To support both comfort and safety, all prenatal massages are performed in the side-lying position with a special pillow support system.
One of the primary goals of prenatal bodywork is to reduce tension and support the body in a way that allows for more natural movement through the low back, hips, and sacrum. In a side-lying position, pressure is taken off the sacrum, allowing it to move more freely and making the work especially effective.
Supporting Growth
A woman experiences some of the most significant physical changes of her life during pregnancy. Increased joint mobility from hormonal shifts, added load through the back and hips, and postural changes can all contribute to discomfort and strain.
Research in osteopathic medicine shows that hands-on bodywork can help reduce pain and support overall function during pregnancy. By creating space and reducing tension throughout the back, hips, and pelvis, the body is better able to move and adapt to these changes.
When the body feels more supported physically, it often becomes easier to settle and regulate, which can also support a reduction in overall stress during pregnancy.
As the body finds more ease, function naturally improves.
Touch Therapies and Oxytocin
Oxytocin plays an important role throughout pregnancy. In the earlier stages, it is associated with regulating stress, supporting emotional stability, and helping the nervous system settle into a more relaxed, parasympathetic state.
Oxytocin is also a key player in preparing for labor and is necessary for contractions, cervical ripening, and labor progression.
Touch therapies such as prenatal bodywork has been shown to reduce stress hormones and may help with oxytocin release.
Nervous System Support
Just as physical balance is important during pregnancy, it’s equally important for the nervous system to feel supported.
Research suggests that massage during pregnancy lowers cortisol levels, reduces stress, anxiety, and depression. When the nervous system is more regulated, overall well-being improves, and the body is better able to soften and release tension.
Body Balancing
The body can hold patterns of tension and restriction, some of which may have developed long before pregnancy.
Spinning Babies inspired bodywork is based on the idea that when the muscles and connective tissues of the pregnant body are more balanced and less restricted, there is often more space for baby to move and find a comfortable position.
Prenatal bodywork supports this process by helping to soften areas of tension and improve mobility through the hips, pelvis, and surrounding structures—without forcing or directing a specific outcome.
Ready To Feel Better?
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