Kristen Rayner, LMP
...nurturing the nurturers
401 Olympia Ave NE, Suite 238, Mailbox 12, Renton, WA 98056
(425) 988-4000
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Why should you see a therapist that is specifically certified in Pre- & Perinatal Massage?
In addition to the pregnancy education required by most massage schools (3-6 hours typically), I have taken specialized training and received certification in Pre- & Perinatal Massage. This program provided training in a number of special techniques which are useful for the issues commonly experienced by pregnant and postpartum mothers as well as birth support techniques for use during labor. This specialized training included additional precautions and techniques to provide a safe, relaxing, stress-reducing and pain-relieving experience for High Risk pregnancies.
Click on the following links to access topics further down this page:
Pregnancy Massage Benefits of Pre/Perinatal Massage
Labor Support Frequently Asked Questions
Postpartum Massage Lending Library
Pregnancy is a time of great change within the body. Fluctuating hormones, increased anxiety, and physical changes to accommodate the growing life inside can cause stress and strain throughout the body. Massage is excellent for relaxation and stress relief. In addition, massage has numerous benefits for pregnant women including:
~ Relieves backaches and other pains often experienced during pregnancy
~ Increases circulation to mother & baby accelerates the flow of nutrients to both
~ Reduces swelling & high blood pressure
~ Relieves varicose veins
~ Promotes flexibility & kinesthetic awareness to help prepare for birth
~ Contributes to shorter, less painful labor & reduces labor complications, medications, and interventions
Massage during pregnancy is quite safe; however, a written release from your doctor or midwife will be requested if your pregnancy is considered to be high-risk. During high-risk pregnancies massage can be especially important for those women who find themselves limited to long periods of bed rest. For these pregnant mothers, in-home appointments are available to assist with the well being of both mother and child.
Labor can sometimes be a long and arduous process. The stress and anxiety often present at birth can be detrimental to mother and baby. As contractions grow stronger your muscles can become tight, painful and tired. Certain massage techniques can be very soothing and helpful during the birthing process, providing a focus point for relaxation, relieving pain and nourishing muscles so that they may function at their best. Massage support during labor is available. Also, clients are welcome to bring their partner to a session to learn some techniques that can be used both prior to and during birth.
After birth, it is important to continue to care for yourself. Massage can not only speed your physical recovery, but it can help a new mother handle the physical demands of caring for a newborn. Your body will begin to shift from pregnancy posture into the "newborn mother huddle" which comes from endless hours hovering over your beautiful baby, exploring each curve and wrinkle of their skin and for many mothers, more than 40 hours a week holding their baby for breastfeeding. Hours shuffling an ever-heavier car seat (or just the baby alone) in one arm while running errands, cooking and talking on the phone. Taking the time to support yourself through this huge life transition can have tremendous benefit for your body and mind. When you are at your own best, you will have your very best to give to your child/children.
BENEFITS OF PRE- & PERINATAL MASSAGE THERAPY
~ Reduces stress & promotes relaxation through emotional support and physical nurturing.
~ Reduces edema & high blood pressure, relieves varicose veins, and increases blood and lymph circulation.
~ Facilitates hormonal, respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary and other prenatal physiological processes.
~ Reduces musculoskeletal pain and strain.
~ Contributes to developing the kinesthetic awareness, flexibility, & preparation necessary for active birthing.
~ Contributes to shorter, less painful labor & reduces labor complications, medications, and interventions.
~ Improves infant well-being.
~ Fosters nurturing maternal touch.
~ Facilitates postpartum recovery, including structural & abdominal restoration, healing from Cesarean birth, & relief of muscle strain of childcare activities.
by Carole Osborne-Sheets
My pregnancy is considered "High Risk". Can I still get a massage?
Absolutely!! With a signed release from your Midwife or OB-GYN, High Risk moms-to-be can gain tremendous benefit from massage during their pregnancies. While certain techniques may be avoided the benefits can still be great.
Can I receive massage during my first trimester?
Though there is no evidence that massage during the 1st trimester will endanger your growing child, it is recommended that massage not begin until the 2nd trimester.
How often should I receive massage during pregnancy?
It is recommended that your massage appointments follow the same schedule as your checkups with your doctor or midwife; as your pregnancy progresses and the stress and strain on your body increases, the added visits assist in relieving your discomfort and preparing you for the birth of your child.
Will any of this be useful at home/birth?
During your sessions we will review some stretches and postural guidance that can be done at home to alleviate common aches and pains associated with your pregnancy. Also, prior to giving birth you are invited to bring your partner or spouse to part of your session where they can learn specific techniques to aid your day-to-day aches as well as help support you during your labor.
How will I be positioned?
After the 1st Trimester you will be placed on your side and/or in a semi-reclining position (partially sitting up) surrounded and supported by a cloud of soft pillows. In these positions we'll be able to access any muscles that can normally be accessed for a massage. You will be fully draped and covered except for the area that is being worked on.
I have been put on full bed rest, can I still get a massage?
Most likely, yes! If you have been placed on bed rest and are unable to leave your home, Outcall appointments can be made. I will arrive with everything necessary for you to receive your massage in your home or apartment. Since most women placed on bed rest are experiencing some complications or high-risk factors, a signed consent form from your Midwife or OB-GYN will be required. Any specific requests or restrictions made by your Midwife or OB-GYN will be honored completely and I am more than happy to speak with them prior to your appointment if they wish.
Kristen Rayner, LMP #60088318
(425) 988-4000
Nationally Certified by NCBTMB
Certified in Pre- & Perinatal Massage
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Copyright 2009, Kristen Rayner, LMP. All rights reserved. |