Massage therapy performed during pregnancy can reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle aches and joint pains, and improve labor outcomes and newborn health. There are various issues massage therapy addresses through muscular stimulation. These include tension, pain from sciatica, sacro-iliitis, upper and middle back thoracic pain. The goal is to relax tension and improve overall circulation through pressure applied to corresponding muscle groups of the body.
Research shows massage benefits hormone levels associated with stress and relaxation, increasing mood regulation and improving heart health.
Other potential benefits of prenatal massage include reduced back and joint pain, improved circulation, reduced edema, reduced muscle tension and headaches, reduced stress and anxiety, improved oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles, and better sleep.