N.O.W - Massage positions for pregnancy

Is it OK for a pregnant woman to go to a therapist that uses a table with a hole in the middle so you can lay prone (on your stomach) during the massage?

After several weeks of sleeping on your side in bed, it may be tempting to try a massage and get on your stomach for an hour or so. Although there are many therapists who may offer these types of tables for your pregnancy massage, it is a good idea to steer clear of them. There isn’t enough data or good information to ensure adequate safety for mother and baby. The best guideline to go by is to always be more cautious with your pregnant body and here are some reasons why: Lying prone impedes blood flow – the weight of the uterus pushing-up and gravity pulling down creates this decreased flow. Also, the weight of the uterus, baby, all of mother’s organs and the pull of gravity along with any pressure the therapist puts on the mother’s back will create pressure on the major vessels of the mother’s body that transfer blood to her baby and herself. Pressure on vessels leads to decreased flow, which means less oxygen and nutrient exchange for both mother and baby.

As pregnancy progresses through-out the months, progressive lordosis, or a normal increased concave curve of the lumbar spine, occurs. This happens because of the shift in the center of gravity from the weight of the baby. Lying in prone position, a mother can experience excess pressure on her lumbar spine. The uterine ligaments holding her uterus ad pelvic in place may also be taxed by the pull of gravity on her belly in this position.

If you’ve already had a massage with a therapist that uses a pregnancy table or specialized pregnancy pillows that allowed you to lie on your stomach, don’t be overly worried. You may have felt a bit dizzy or a little achy afterward, or felt just fine after. The important thing is that you are now informed and know to choose someone who is adept at giving pregnancy massages in the side-lying (right and/or left) or “Fowler’s Position” (supine, or on your back at a 45º angle so as not to compress the vena cava). Not every therapist understands all the details and specific care that a pregnancy woman needs during her massage, so inquire about their background and skills before you set-up an appointment. And above all, enjoy your massages for all the stress relieving, sore muscle soothing, and hormone evening it can offer!

Introducing N.O.W.

Each week check out WWHP's blog for the N.O.W (News Of the week) posting, which will feature useful information regarding nutrition, bodywork, pregnancy and postpartum issues. Many are posts that will come from questions and concerns of clients, as well as advice that is just good to have.

Feel free to e-mail or blog additional questions or comments for future N.O.W postings.