What is Perinatal Massage?

Prenatal massage is for pregnant folks!

We use the term perinatal to include pregnancy and up to the first three years https://maryelmt.janeapp.com/after birth. This is a unique period time for the birthing parent physically, mentally, emotionally and often times spiritually.

Perinatal massage holds awareness to the significant adjustments, challenges, joys and ongoing changes that may occur during this time. Sessions may vary depending on the needs of the client at the time.

Prenatal massage is a type that's similar to regular massage – it aims to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and mobility, and just make you feel good. But prenatal massage is also customized to the needs of pregnant people and their changing bodies, and therapists trained in prenatal massage adjust their techniques accordingly.

Carrying a baby inside you changes your center of gravity and puts a lot of stress on your back, neck, abdominal muscles, and shoulders. Pregnancy also relaxes your ligaments, meaning your pelvic joints are less stable, and it also changes your posture, pulling your pelvis forward. Add to that the extra weight you're carrying and you may end up with an aching lower back.

You can get a prenatal massage at any point in pregnancy, as long as you have your doctor or midwife's approval. Some massage therapists won't see pregnant women until the second trimester because of the increased risk of miscarriage in the first trimester. But there's no evidence or reason to believe that prenatal massage in the first trimester would raise your miscarriage risk. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out via our contact form.

Testimonial

I had an absolutely heavenly prenatal massage by Mary. I am 32 weeks pregnant, and understandably everything aches at this point. She focused on the areas I told her were bothering me the most, and yet still made time for my lesser pains. She made sure I was comfortable with the temperature of the massage table, and with my large baby belly. I’m certain she even put my little baby to sleep during the massage. I will be going back to see Mary again! She is highly recommended!

- Emily H. Clackamas, OR