Pregnancy massage

Expecting a baby is a wonderful time in a woman's life. Regular massage is one way to enjoy it to the fullest. A mindful, calm touch creates a sense of well-being for both mother and baby.

At Hellad Kolumatsid we offer a Thai massage designed specifically for women expecting a baby. The techniques used differ significantly from ordinary Thai massage. Carried out on a mat, the massage flows in the calm, breath-following rhythm unique to Thai massage. This rhythm soothes and brings on brighter, more confident thoughts. The technique of pressures and stretches done through clothing builds balance between body and spirit.

The most comfortable and safest positions are chosen based on how the baby and mother are feeling. When needed, the masseuse uses various comfortable pillows or bean-bag chairs to support the expectant mother, giving the mother-to-be the most suitable support and sense of security. On the mat the masseuse has good access to the expectant mother's back, as she is lying on her side. Being on the floor also makes it possible to massage the legs either on the side, lying on the back, or sitting up. The session begins and ends with a foot massage, with longer attention given to the back and head area. During a pregnancy massage, feedback to the masseuse is extremely important!

The expectant mother's good well-being during pregnancy is essential for the harmonious development of the baby. After a massage the mother-to-be feels calm and joyful, and that emotion is immediately passed on to the baby. Good physical shape in turn makes giving birth easier and speeds up recovery after delivery.

The changes that come with pregnancy can cause various aches and discomforts. A few examples: back pain, heaviness in the lower back, hips and legs, numbness and swelling in the hands and feet, tension in the upper back and neck, leg cramps, and sleep problems. Such complaints can be very well eased with massage. Together with relaxed breathing, a gentle massage helps the woman's body release muscle tension and calms her nervous system, increasing the release of well-being hormones (endorphins and serotonin), which in turn cross the placenta and have a calming effect on the baby as well. Mothers-to-be whose normal pregnancy has allowed them to receive massage right up to the end report a better sense of their own body, which adds confidence for the coming birth. Labour itself usually goes more easily as the pelvic floor muscles are relaxed.

For an expectant mother, massage is pleasant, beneficial and very much recommended. Thai massage for pregnant women helps keep the whole body in shape, preventing swelling of the legs, night-time leg cramps and back pain, and easing constipation and nausea.

Moderate physical exertion is beneficial during pregnancy. When the usual training is no longer possible, pregnancy massage gives the muscles passive exercise and also boosts blood and lymph circulation.

Pregnancy massage can be started at any point during pregnancy, but extra care is needed in the first trimester. During this period massage can still be done on a table, but strong massage of the lower back must be strictly avoided. Massage is recommended from the third month of pregnancy onwards.

Before booking the first appointment, it is still worth talking to your doctor or midwife, because every woman is different and every body behaves differently during pregnancy.

A small warning for the more daring: if pregnancy massage is done at home, keep in mind that the body has points that can trigger unwanted reactions during pregnancy. All reflex zones that could influence the function of the pelvic organs should be avoided. These include the zones on both sides of the heel and on the shin that are often used in Eastern massages. Strong massage of the sole and pressing of points should also be avoided. Such treatment can affect uterine contractions. During pregnancy the point between the thumb and index finger, often used to relieve headaches, must also be strictly avoided. The sacral area should also be left alone. Massage of this area can reflexively cause changes in the function of the pelvic organs.

A small encouragement for the more cautious: while in normal circumstances many women would go for a massage to relieve muscle tension, during pregnancy they often don't dare. For an expectant mother, massage is actually a pleasant, beneficial and very much recommended treatment. During pregnancy the body bears a load that is quite different from usual, so don't hesitate to turn to an experienced masseuse — often it doesn't take much to bring relief. Less tension means less stress and much more joy!

• mild back pain

• heaviness in the lower back, hips and legs, back fatigue

• leg cramps and swelling

• tension in the shoulders and neck

• numbness in the hands

• mental tension, depression, anxiety

• sleep problems

• regulation of the hormonal system

• excessive sweating

• pain caused by the sciatic nerve

• muscle pain and headaches

• improved blood circulation

• improved oxygen uptake in the body

• multiple pregnancy

• previous miscarriage or earlier problems with the current pregnancy

• cervical problems

• abnormal fetal heart rate

• reduced or absent fetal movement

• intrauterine growth restriction

• suspected Rh conflict or other genetic problem

• low weight gain

• high-risk pregnancy due to the mother's health condition

• previous premature birth

• gestational hypertension, i.e. high blood pressure

An expectant woman can receive massage if the mother-to-be is in good health and the pregnancy is progressing normally. In case of health problems, always consult a doctor.

Hellad Kolumatsid use only the highest-quality Frantsila massage oils.