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Potential Benefits of Pregnancy Massage

• Reduces the anxiety and stress by stimulating endocrine changes that promote rest and relaxation and support a healthy functioning state (Osborne-Sheets 1998 and Stillerman 1992)

• Increases blood circulation for the mother, the placenta and the baby (Osborne-Sheets 1998 and Stillerman 1992) and facilitates lympathic circulation that decreases edema especially in the extremities (Osborne-Sheets 1998, Stillerman 1992 and Waters 2000)

• Reduces musculoskeletal tension and pain associated with hormonal changes, weight pain, postural changes and daily activities (Osborne-Sheets 1998 and Stillerman 1992)

• Reduces back pain, improves mood and promotes better sleep (Field 1999)

• Develops the sensory and movement awareness, flexibility and relaxation that is beneficial for the labour and birth (Osborne-Sheets 1998)

• Reduces the risk of pregnancy complications including preterm labour (Field 1999)

• Reduces labour and neonatal complications (Field 1999)

• Contributes to nurturing maternal behaviour and stronger mother/infant bonding (Osborne-Sheets 1998)

• Reduces the incidence of postpartum depression, especially in women who experienced depression during their pregnancies (Field 2004)

Potential Benefits of Postpartum Massage
Cortiva Institute’s “Maternity and Infant Massage Program’s Module 3 Postpartum Massage” Continuing Education course.

• Facilitates postpartum emotional, physiological and family adjustments (Osborne-Sheets 1998, Waters 2000)
• Reduces musculoskeletal and organic pain (Osborne-Sheets 1998, Stillerman 1992, Waters 2000)
• Promotes structural realignment of the spine and pelvis and reorganization of movement (Osborne-Sheets 1998)

• Contributes to rehabilitation of abdominal skin, muscles and organs (Osborne-Sheets 1998)