During pregnancy, a woman's spine bears an increased load. Due to the shift in the center of gravity, weight gain, and increased lordosis, the lower back becomes strained. We've prepared an article, "Back Massage for Pregnant Women," which covers this topic in more detail. Besides the back, the cervical spine also suffers. Massaging the collar area during pregnancy is an effective way to help expectant mothers.
Neck Massage During Pregnancy: Actions and Contraindications
Consult your doctor beforehand. Get permission to have the procedure, clarify the nuances, and find out the contraindications.
Effects of Collar Area Massage During Pregnancy:
- Softening of muscles, relief of tension and joint pain.
- Elimination of headaches, improvement of vision and coordination.
- Improved posture.
- Lymph outflow, enhanced blood circulation, accelerated metabolism.
- A positive effect on the functioning of organs and systems.
For expectant mothers, relaxation, stress minimization, and increased production of serotonin and dopamine are important. Working on the neck provides these effects.
Neck massage during pregnancy should be avoided in cases of blood pressure issues, heart problems, colds, fever, skin conditions, cancer, or increased blood clotting. In cases of a difficult pregnancy, or in very early or late stages, the session is carried out with double the attention and care.
Collar Area Massage During Pregnancy: Features
During the procedure, the pregnant woman should feel comfortable. The salon's atmosphere and the professionalism of the staff (particularly the massage therapists) contribute to this.
Features of Neck Massage for Pregnant Women:
- movements are gentle and careful (rubbing, kneading), with reduced intensity and no pressing;
- positioning on the massage table is such that the body relaxes and the belly is comfortable;
- the use of massage oils is acceptable (with the client's consent).
An experienced massage therapist knows the anatomy of the body and the specifics of how it functions during pregnancy — they will notice any warning signs if they appear. That's why it's important to carefully choose the salon you go to for a massage (especially collar area massage during pregnancy).
Our new article on this topic is called "Facial Massage During Pregnancy" — it answers important questions and provides recommendations.