Article created in collaboration with Brigit Bucher from MassagePraxis BB in Zurich. Complementary therapist/medical masseuse.
Self-care during pregnancy?
Massages during pregnancy can be a fantastic form of self-care for mother and baby.
What is pregnancy massage?
Pregnancy massage is a relaxation massage specially developed for expectant mothers, which takes into account the specific wishes of the pregnant woman. A special positioning system enables a massage in the side position, which is good for both the expectant mother and the baby.
Why are massages important during pregnancy?
It helps to relieve physical discomfort during pregnancy, such as back and neck tension, general tension and water retention. Tension is often observed in the lower back, middle back, shoulder/neck area and ribs. The muscles are loosened and blood flow improves, and the internal organs are supplied with more blood and nourished. Edema is reduced, swollen joints and legs are relieved. Joints become more flexible again, tendons and ligaments relax and become elastic.
When is pregnancy massage possible?
Pregnancy massage performed by a qualified professional usually has no restrictions. We generally recommend going to a trained professional to ensure the safety of mother and child.
For non-trained professionals/"normal" massage studios, the following applies: From the second trimester onwards, you are usually allowed to lie down on the massage table. Why only then? In the first third of the pregnancy, important structures of the baby are developing and the body is very sensitive to changes. It should also be noted that "non-specialized" massage studios also have restrictions towards the end of the pregnancy.
What should you pay attention to during a pregnancy massage?
It is important that the massage is carried out by a specially trained professional to ensure the safety of mother and child. It is advisable to consult a therapist who is recognized by health insurance companies (supplementary insurance for alternative medicine).
Our recommendation in Zurich is the MassagePraxis BB ( https://www.massagepraxis-bb.ch/ ).
Self-care after birth
Postpartum self-care refers to the measures and practices that a "new" mother can take to look after her own physical and mental health. The postpartum period is a period of intense physical and emotional adjustment for many women. While the newborn is the focus, it is equally important that the mother takes care of her own recovery and well-being. Self-care is a key aspect of this. It is important that mothers give themselves permission to take this "time out" and give the body some love in addition to the recovery. This in turn means that mothers have more energy for the baby and the family through this "time out".
Promote self-care through postnatal massages
As mentioned, your own body needs support in regeneration. The massage gives you the opportunity to welcome your body back as your own and allows you to take a "time out" from mother/child/everyday life. It is effective for:
- Existing water retention (edema)
- Improves milk production by reducing stress
- Relaxation of tense muscles caused by childbirth Back and neck tension
- General tension
What should you pay attention to during postnatal massages?
It is extremely important that such massages are only carried out by qualified professionals who have experience in dealing with "new" mothers. A woman's body goes through a natural healing process after giving birth. Professionals can ensure that the massage supports the healing process and does not interfere with it. In addition, every woman experiences birth and the period afterward differently. A qualified professional can respond to individual needs and complaints and adapt the massage accordingly and use the right techniques so that the massage is effective and beneficial.
Benefits / positive effects of a massage from a qualified professional
Special techniques loosen the muscles, promote blood circulation and increase general well-being. Pregnancy massages are a wonderful way to relax and promote improved sleep.
- Relaxation for expectant mothers: Pregnancy massage helps to reduce stress and relax.
- Relief from back pain: Massage can relieve tension and reduce back pain that occurs during pregnancy.
- Improve blood circulation: Gentle massage promotes blood circulation, which also benefits your baby.
- Reducing water retention: Massage can help reduce swelling in the legs and feet.
- Better sleep: The relaxing effect helps you fall asleep more easily and sleep through the night better.
- Emotional support: The touch during the massage can provide emotional stability and increase well-being.
- Preparing for birth: Regular massages can loosen the muscles and prepare for birth.
- Recovery after birth: Postnatal massages support recovery and help you get fit again faster.
- Strengthening the immune system: Massage can strengthen the immune system, which is especially important during and after pregnancy.
- Time for you: Massage gives you the opportunity to consciously take time for yourself and your own well-being.
Important NOTE
Every body, every pregnancy, every birth is different. Regardless of whether it is a "normal" pregnancy or one with known complications/risks, one should always consult a doctor before having massages during pregnancy or after birth.
The massages should be carried out by qualified professionals.
