Massage benefits during pregnancy

Massages are always a good time; they feel good, improve your health, and can help cure aches and pains. During pregnancy they can be beneficial as well. Benefits of pregnancy massage:

• Reduces leg and back muscle aches, cramps, and pains.
• Can help relax you so you get better sleep.
• Naturally relieve some headache pain - good since you want to keep medication on the down-low during pregnancy.
• Reduces varicose veins and swelling.
• Can increase circulation in your body.
• If you get used to massage during pregnancy as a relaxation technique, it can be called upon during labor to help relieve labor pain. I.e your body automatically recognizes massage as relaxing.

Massage tips: Make sure you only receive massages during pregnancy from a trained professional - preferably someone with experience in prenatal massage. The wrong massage touch can trigger labor. To find a pro, check out the American Massage Therapy Association website. If massage feels bad, ask the giver to stop. Not all women enjoy massage - so don't think if it hurts that you're just overreacting.