Cathleen McCauley L.M.T.

By Cathy McCauley, LMT, NCTMB

A woman experiences gradual yet profound changes during pregnancy and the postpartum months following the birth experience. Pulling Down the Moon now offers massage packages to accompany you on your journey during this special time.

Beginning in the second trimester, or week 14, the Moon’s certified prenatal massage therapists provide safe, nurturing and supportive massage focused on your specific needs.  Treatments can melt away pregnancy pain and discomfort, increase relaxation and promote health and wellness for mother and baby.

Numerous studies show the benefit to both mothers and babies who receive prenatal massage. According to a 2010 study, research shows that women who received prenatal massage reported decreased depression, anxiety, and leg and back pain. Cortisol levels decreased, which decreased excessive fetal activity; the rate of baby prematurity was also lower.  In a study of labor pain, women who received massage therapy experienced significantly less pain, and their labors were on average three hours shorter with less need for medication (Field 2010).

After you’ve given birth, your body slowly returns to its non-pregnant state, typically taking six weeks. Massage during this postpartum period supports your recovery from giving birth, reduces pain caused by structural and muscular changes and encourages relaxation and stress relief.  The postpartum time can be an emotional experience, filled with joys and challenges.  Postpartum massage may contribute to healthy family development and reduce the likelihood that excessive musculoskeletal pain will distract from the pleasure of motherhood (Field 1996).

Experience the benefits of maternity massage. Purchase a 60-minute prenatal or postpartum massage three-pack for $340 and save $10 per massage. Schedule an appointment with one of the Moon’s certified prenatal and postpartum massage therapist in the Chicago Area (312-321-0004) or the DC Metro area (301-610-7755).

We look forward to accompanying you on your journey!

References:

Field, T, Grizzle N, Scafidi F, Shanberg S. Massage and relaxation therapies’ effect on depressed adolescent mothers. Adolescence. (1996, 31:903-911).

Field, T. (2010). Pregnancy and labor massage therapy. Expert Review of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 5, 177-181.

Osborn, C. (2012). Pre- and Perinatal Massage Therapy, A Comprehensive Guide to Prenatal, Labor and Postpartum Practice. Baltimore, MD. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

 Ever wondered what makes prenatal massage different from “regular” massage?  Pulling Down the Moon Co-Founder Tami Quinn interviews fertility and pregnancy massage specialist Dana Durand, LMT to get the scoop:

Click here to schedule your FEM (Fertility-Enhancing Massage) Protocol or Pregnancy Massage with Dana Durand at our Shady Grove location.