Three Lesser-Known Benefits of Getting Prenatal Massage Therapy in the Last Trimester

There are many benefits associated with prenatal massage therapy. Most people realize that getting a massage can help to decrease stress and decrease aches and pains that occur within the body due to the changes that the body is experiencing during pregnancy. However, these are not the only benefits associated with prenatal massage therapy. Here are a few of the lesser-known benefits associated with getting prenatal massages in the last trimester of pregnancy. 

Helps to Stabilize Hormone Levels

One of the lesser-known benefits associated with getting prenatal massage therapy is that massages can help to stabilize hormone levels late in pregnancy. When you are in your late stages of pregnancy, your body is going through many changes and your hormones can be all over the place as well. You can go from happy to sad to anxious in a matter of minutes thanks to the raging hormones in your body. Massage helps to increase blood flow, stimulates your lymphatic system, and increases oxygen in the blood, all of which can help to stabilize your hormone levels. 

Can Make Labor and Delivery Faster and Easier

Another benefit associated with getting prenatal massage therapy in the last trimester of pregnancy is that massage therapy has been shown to help make labor and delivery faster and easier on the mother. Massage can help to open up the pelvic region of the body, which helps the baby to fall into the proper position for birthing. Massage also has anti-inflammatory properties to help prevent swelling in the body, which can prevent the baby from engaging properly in the pelvis. If you are looking to decrease your chances of having a c-section and want a faster and easier birth, routine massages in your third trimester may help. 

Allows a Mother to Relax and Sleep Better

The final benefit associated with getting prenatal massages is that massage therapy can help a mother to relax and sleep better. Many mothers struggle to sleep during their final weeks of pregnancy. They may have trouble getting comfortable, may have aches and pains throughout their body, and may have anxiety and stress about the impending birth or their life changing. Massage can help a mother to relax, decrease her aches and pains and help her to sleep. 

Prenatal massage therapy has many benefits associated with it, and it is generally safe for most pregnant women. However, before you book an appointment for prenatal massage, you should speak with your OB-GYN, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy. They can let you know if prenatal massage therapy is a great choice for you and your baby.