To Call Erin for an appointment call 716-778-0463

Your comfort during a massage

You will be comfortably supported with pillows or cushions during your massage, and may even find yourself lying face
down for the first time in a while. In later pregnancy you can get a complete massage comfortably supported in a side-lying position. If lying down is simply not comfortable, you can remain seated for a, relaxing partial massage.

You will be draped with a sheet everywhere except the part of your body being massaged. Ask for a lighter drape or less heat in the room if you are too hot. If your sense of smell is sensitive, ask for unscented lotion or oil. Ii is fine to interrupt your massage when you need to use the restroom.
Be sure to ask any questions you have about massage in general or your session in particular. Tell your massage therapist if anything feels uncomfortable or if there are areas that you would rather not have massaged (for example your abdomen). If ' you are not sure about something, be conservative and see how you feel after each massage.

Preparing for labor

Massage can help you prepare for the birthing process in several ways. Regular massage to the lower back, abdomen,
and inner thighs can release chronic tension in '. these areas for minimal resistance during delivery. Massage also increases your awareness of tension , in your body and teaches you how to consciously release it, increasing your confidence and control during labor. You can even prepare for labor by practicing focus, breathing and relaxation techniques while a tender area is being massaged.
 

Massage during labor

Massage is part of the birthing process in virtually all-tribal cultures of the world. It can help you relax between contractions
, reduce pain from tight muscles, and provide emotional support and encouragement. Because stress interferes with production of labor-inducing hormones, there is even evidence that massage can promote a speedier birth.
It is a rare luxury to have your professional massage therapist present at your labor. As an alternative, you may want to share with your birthing partner some massage techniques you find relaxing. Your massage therapist may be able to suggest a massage class for you and your partner, or may even be willing to meet with you for a private lesson.

Postpartum massage
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In the postpartum period, nature sets about undoing in eight weeks what it took nine months to create. Though it may be difficult, it is as
important to care for yourself now as during your pregnancy.
Massage can help you handle the physical demands of caring for a newborn by reducing tension and increasing energy. Massage can speed healing of hemorrhoids by increasing circulation. If you are nursing, a relaxing massage can help since tension interferes with milk letdown. Psychologically, massage can nurture and comfort you whether or not you are experiencing postpartum "blues."
When to schedule your first postpartum massage will depend on how your delivery went and what your health care provider advises. Talk with your massage therapist about what is best for you. Ask about having your baby in the room with you during your massage.
 

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