A doula massaging a mom before labor.
Pregnancy and massage go together like rice and beans. If your doula is massaging you before labor begins, it can help her establish a touch and trust relationship with you. Your doula’s main purpose is to help you relax. The more she practices with you before the birth, the easier you can slip into that relaxation during labor.
Your doula is not the only one who can massage you. If you go to a massage therapist, be sure that she is very familiar with pregnancy massage. There are some places you should not be massaged which could put you into premature labor. This is also true of pedicures. One of the do not touch unless you want labor places is on your ankle. Pedicures often come with foot massage. Be sure your pedicurist knows what to avoid.
Your partner can also massage you. Make sure that your pregnant belly is supported by pillows and that you let your partner know what you like. If his touch needs to be harder or to the left, let him know. That kind of communication will help you in labor. No one can read your mind! So find a good massage therapist near you and give yourself a treat. You are the queen!
Here is a good place for massage if you are in the Pittsburgh area.
Tags: pregnancy massage