Natural Pregnancy Remedies: Finding a Pregnancy Massage Therapist

Prenatal massage can be an extremely beneficial natural pregnancy remedy for both mother and baby. Sure, it makes you feel great, but did you know that pregnancy massage can also increase blood flow, improve lymph circulation, reduce swelling (thus making you feel a teensy bit less like a beached whale!), reduce stress on your hard-working joints and increase the skin's elasticity. Pregnancy massage can also help you sleep better at night. Serious good news to insomnia mamas!

But when you're pregnant, it can sometimes be hard to relax and trust someone to give you a great, safe massage. You want to make sure you find a masseuse that is specifically trained in giving prenatal massages. A well-trained person will know what positions are safe for you to lie in. She'll also know what parts of the body are OK to massage and which areas to avoid. If you know you're in good hands (literally!) it'll be easier to relax.

So how do you find a qualified therapist well-versed in natural pregnancy remedies like prenatal massage in your area? You can call a local spa with a stellar reputation and ask them if they have any therapists trained in prenatal massage. Or ask your OB if she knows anyone her patients trust. You can also check out the American Massage Therapy Association's website for recommendations. This professional association offers a national provider service in which all members are held to professional standards and educated in their specific modalities. This will help ensure that you find a qualified, trained professional who is knowledgeable in the applications and benefits of pregnancy massage.