Jeanne is a massage therapist and is qualified in pregnancy massage. She is also an aromatherapist which allows her to use safe essential oils during pregnancy.

Although bringing a new life into the world is a joyous, exciting and challenging experience, a mother-to-be may also feel worried, overwhelmed and anxious. Her body undergoes many changes (from hormonal changes to the size and shape of her new body in preparation for childbirth) which can often cause discomfort and in some people pain in specific areas.

Massage is a perfect way to reduce stress and promote well-being and it helps provide emotional support. It will help expectant mothers to prepare themselves emotionally and physically for the birth. It’s a popular complementary therapy during pregnancy for back pain, when choices for pain relief, such as medication, are often limited.

Jeanne tailors each treatment to the physical and emotional needs of each client. She uses a variety of based oils (nourishing ones are normally chosen during pregnancy such as jojoba, grapeseed or coconut) and on some occasions is able to offer a blend of essential oils.

The massage takes place on a massage couch with the use of a special supporting foam cushion so that it is very comfortable and supporting of the bump.

Treatments available – Please also allow 15 to 20 minute for a initial free consultation.

Back, Neck and Shoulder massage – 30 minutes

Abdomen and Back, Neck and Shoulder massage including the scalp – 1 hour

Full Body Massage – 1.5 hours

Reflexology – 1 hour

Tailored treatment to target specific problem areas – 1.5 hours

Benefits of Pregnancy Massage

• Reduces stress, promotes relaxation and improves sleep.
• Reduces oedema.
• Reduces strain on the muscles of the lower back, abdomen and shoulders which helps with muscle pain and cramps.
• Increases lymphatic circulation which helps with water retention.
• Increases the blood flow to all areas of the body including the placenta (this brings greater nutrition to the tissues and enhances removal of waste).
• Increases muscle tone (especially the ones weakened during pregnancy).
• Nourishes the skin and improves its elasticity.
• Increase energy levels and reduces fatigue due to the increased oxygen absorption.
• Elevates the mood due to the increased production of endorphins during the massage. This is very beneficial for baby as whatever the expecting mother feels gets passed onto the baby.

 Contraindications to Massage during Pregnancy

There are some instances in which massage during pregnancy is not advisable. Here are a few examples, but if in doubt, please consult your GP or midwife beforehand. We will also do a thorough consultation before the initial treatment to ensure you are okay to receive the massage.

• During the first trimester of the pregnancy.
• If you are suffering with a fever.
• If you have an infection or severe headache.
• If you are experiencing vaginal bleeding or heavy discharge.

 POSTNATAL MASSAGE

The postnatal period is an important recovery time when the hormones try to re-establish and rebalance themselves. It is also the time when the uterus returns to its normal size. Although most of the work has been done, the body is still undergoing lots of changes, and it is therefore normal to feel pain, general stiffness and fatigue. The body can also remain sore and achy for a little while after childbirth.

After the adrenaline of the birth and all the emotions that goes with it, it is not uncommon for the new mother to feel very emotional. She is also concentrating on the new baby and the focus is now on the baby and not on her and so it is important that from time to time she takes some time for herself.

Benefits of Postnatal Massage

• Please refer to the general benefits.
• Reduces back and neck pain. These areas tend to get more tense than usual as the feeding and carrying baby put extra pressure on the upper back and shoulders.
• Gives the mother some breathing space and relaxation.
• Helps healing after a caesarean section.
• Nourishes the skin and helps with stretch marks.
• Helps with postnatal depression.