Life moves fast and there’s a lot of things to think about when you’re pregnant, so it’s understandable that you might not think about yourself, until you start to notice some aches and pains. Suddenly you’re thinking about a prenatal massage, but you don’t where to go in Cambridge or what to ask the clinic to ensure you are seeing the right therapist.
A little knowledge can go a long way and asking the right questions before booking means that you are more likely to choose a therapist with the right specialist antenatal knowledge and experience you are seeking.
At our clinic in Cambridge, these are four great questions that we would expect to answer at the point of booking to reassure you that the safety and comfort of you and your baby are our top priority …
Is massage safe during pregnancy?
If you are healthy and have an uncomplicated pregnancy, then you can safely receive maternity massage after the first trimester right up until you give birth.
Are your therapists qualified and what extra training have they completed in pregnancy massage?
Any therapist offering pregnancy massage should well qualified and experienced in their field and have undergone additional training to care for women during this stage of life. A knowledge of the way the body changes during pregnancy, adapted techniques, alternative supportive positioning and specific conditions affecting mothers-to-be like pelvic girdle pain is vital.
All our therapists offering this service at our Cambridge clinic have extensive experience and additional specialist training. Both Shelly and Charlie will deliver an hour long, soothing and relaxing hands-on treatment tailored to your individual concerns.
How will I be positioned during the massage?
Some clinics offer a special table or belly pillow so you can lie on your front but for many women this doesn’t offer enough support for the baby and can put strain on the uterine ligaments. We recommend being massaged in side lying with lots of bolsters, pillows and cushions to support your hips, back, belly and spinal joints.
Does massage help when you have pelvic girdle pain?
Massage can help to alleviate painful muscular points around your pelvis, specifically your buttock, waist and lower back muscles. It’s wise to make your massage therapist aware that you have PGP because they might suggest additional support around your hips when positioning you comfortably for your treatment.
Asking lots of questions like these means you can be sure that you and your baby are in safe hands during your appointments, so you can settle in confidently for some deep relaxation and space to quietly bond with your baby before birth.