When you are pregnant, your body goes through a lot of changes. As your belly becomes bigger and your baby grows, your hips, back, and pelvis begin to shift to make room for the upcoming delivery. This can cause a lot of discomfort to your body, including pain in your lower back, thighs, buttocks, and even shoulders. Massage therapy can be beneficial in bringing you physical relief from your aches and pain, and can have other pleasant positives as well. Here are some ways that massage therapy can help you throughout your pregnancy.

Muscle relaxation

Tense muscles from the weight of your baby can place pressure on your spine ad joints. Your massage therapist (make sure you choose one trained in pregnancy massage) can place your body in a comfortable position, often on your side, to work out the knots in your lower or upper spine, along the backs of your thighs, and even in your shoulders. This relaxation can help improve movement as your pregnancy progresses and help keep your spine aligned with your changing body.

Improved sleep 

Studies suggest that pregnant women who get less than 6 hours of sleep a night are more prone for longer deliveries and C-sections than mothers-to-be who 'sleep for two'. Unfortunately, being in pain and tossing and turning all night due to a sore back can interrupt your sleeping pattern, making you exhausted and stressed during the day. This isn't healthy for you or your baby. Massage therapy during pregnancy can not only relax those sore muscles, but can help your body release hormones that inspire relaxation and peace, which can lead to more rest for you and a healthier delivery when the time comes.

Mental relief

A lot of emotions affect you when you are pregnant, thanks to an increase in estrogen and progesterone, hormones your body pumps out in full supply throughout your pregnancy. A massage can help you mentally relax, allowing you to enjoy your pregnancy more, experience less stress, and provide a healthier environment for your baby to thrive. Getting a massage a few times a month can help you stay mentally well by relieving ongoing stress. Regular massages can also help energize you so you can keep up with your daily life even as your belly grows.

There are many benefits of getting massage therapy by a therapist who is trained in pregnancy massage. As your belly grows and you begin to feel the mental and physical fatigue of your pregnancy, massage can be a noninvasive way to find great relief. Contact a business, such as Eminence Massage, for more information.