Expectant mothers Turku - Turkukiropraktiikka.fi

Changes in the gestation period

The gestation period brings with it many physical changes and stresses due to weight gain, a change in the center of gravity and changes in posture (posture). The body tries to compensate for the situation as best it can, but the pace of change is so fast that it does not have time to reach a new equilibrium state. Changes in the center of gravity lead to changes in the lordosis, or concavity, of the lumbar spine, which increases the load on the area and easily provokes pain in the lumbar (lower back). Compensation for changes in posture and center of gravity also involves the muscles of the neck and shoulder area, which easily tense up. As a result of a prolonged state of tension, blood circulation and metabolism in the areas slow down, which easily leads to pain conditions of varying degrees, swelling (fingers and hands) and headaches.

During pregnancy, under the influence of the hormone relaxin, the connective tissue and ligaments of the pubic symphysis loosen and can cause joint or symphysis pain. To a lesser extent, estrogen and progestin (progesterone) are also involved in this. The effect is not only limited to the pubic symphysis, but also to other joints; in particular, the sacral-iliac joint (SI joint), causing posterior iliac pain. The pain is similar in nature to sciatica pain. Pelvic position changes, weight gain, and a growing uterus can also slow down the restoration of venous blood and especially lymph from the legs, causing a feeling of pressure and swelling.

‍

Safety and benefits of massage during pregnancy

Massage throughout the gestation period is completely safe and recommended. Unfortunately, one still hears claims that it would be harmful during pregnancy. The idea is probably that massage could cause a miscarriage or trigger childbirth prematurely. The research results do not support such views. Conversely! Research has shown that massage during pregnancy reduces stress and anxiety, reduces and relieves back and leg pain effectively, and lowers the risk of premature birth. Massage benefits not only the mother, but also the fetus / developing baby. Based on studies, it has been established that in mothers who received massages, the strong movement of the fetus decreased, which reduced the risk of premature birth. Massage also lowers the cortisol levels of both mother and baby, i.e. lowers stress and anxiety.

It is also sometimes claimed that waste products emanating from the tissues during massage harm the unborn baby. The idea is logical, but in reality the placenta is able to regulate quite accurately the substances that are released into the fetus / baby and effectively blocks unwanted and harmful compounds. Even in this case, the effect of the massage is exactly the opposite, i.e. it stimulates the blood circulation and metabolism of both, enhancing the elimination of waste substances and the oxidation of the blood.

The idea that pains that occur during pregnancy should be endured "by biting a tooth" and are part of pregnancy is no longer the case today – if it ever was. Massage during pregnancy (like any other massage) helps to relax, relieves tension, stress and pain. It also relieves depression and anxiety, improves sleep and its quality, facilitates and deepens breathing, and increases the production of the "feel-good and happiness hormones" dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin. – In general, it makes you feel better.

‍

Massage postures during pregnancy

Massage during pregnancy is carried out on the terms of the mother. As massage positions, the back lying and / or flank position are used. If necessary, massage can also be done while sitting. The neck, neck, shoulders and pectoral muscles are best handled from the back, but they can also be performed equally well in the side position. The flank position is good for treating the back, hips, buttocks and feet. With a massage pillow specially designed for massage during pregnancy (we have Belloost), massage can often be continued until the end of pregnancy also on the stomach, which makes it possible to massage the long muscles and buttocks of the back effectively.