Pregnancy is a time of profound change, joy, and sometimes, a whole lot of stress. As you prepare for motherhood, self-care becomes more essential than ever. Taking the time to nurture yourself not only enhances your well-being but also contributes to a healthier pregnancy.
However, with countless self-care options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which practices will truly benefit you during this transformative period. In this article, we’ll explore three unique self-care tips for expecting moms. Let’s dive in.
1. Consider Prenatal Massages
Did you know that in states like Texas, the city of Austin has the lowest birth rate when compared to other big cities? That’s a reason to worry for the community, and it emphasizes the importance of self-care during pregnancy. If you speak to expecting moms here, you’ll find that many swear by the comforting benefits of prenatal massages in Austin.
As the baby grows, the mother’s body undergoes substantial changes, leading to common aches and pains, particularly in the lower back, hips, and legs. As Mantis Massage notes, a prenatal massage can help with reducing the swelling and pressure that comes from a heavy uterus.
You might also find yourself enjoying massages even after giving birth. According to WebMD, your bodily fluids increase by 50% during pregnancy. Postpartum massages are great for aiding in lymphatic drainage and increasing circulation. It also aids in improving breastfeeding and milk production, so don’t knock it until you try it.
Interestingly, Lesly Gilchrist, a registered midwife, makes an important point in this context. She highlights the dangers of deep tissue massages, particularly for your legs and upper arms. This is because pregnancy is linked to a higher risk of deep vein thrombosis.
So, if you decide to get a massage, try to pick a reputable parlor that has experience with prenatal massage dos and don’ts. Thankfully, there are many places to get an amazing massage in Austin, or any big city for that matter. You just have to do your research and read customer reviews properly before booking a session.
2. Acupuncture Can Help Relieve Pain (But Be Careful)
Today, the wellness industry offers a myriad of self-care options, many of which are rather exotic and intriguing. These include traditional practices such as herbal remedies and essential oil therapies. In recent years, a rather ancient practice, acupuncture, has also risen in popularity.
Acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, and involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and promote healing.
However, certain acupuncture points, particularly those around the abdomen, lower back, and legs, are believed to stimulate uterine contractions. This can potentially lead to preterm labor or miscarriage, especially if the practitioner is not specifically trained in prenatal acupuncture.
We do want to stress that dangers exist for every kind of unconventional treatment and in ways you might not expect. That said, professionals know what they are doing so resist the urge to visit clinics that don’t have an established reputation.
3. Floatation Therapy Can Feel Amazing
This practice involves getting into a tank of Epsom-saturated water. The high salt concentration increases the water’s density, allowing your body to float effortlessly.
For pregnant women, this buoyancy can be nothing short of miraculous. As the pregnancy progresses, the added weight can lead to significant strain on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the lower back, hips, and legs.
Floating in the tank provides a rare opportunity for your body to experience near-complete weightlessness. It relieves pressure on the joints and muscles in a way that few other therapies can.
Studies have shown that time spent in a floatation tank can significantly reduce cortisol levels, leading to a sense of calm that persists long after the session ends. This effect is particularly beneficial if you struggle with sleep disturbances and anxiety as your due date approaches.
However, one thing to remember is that the experience can be a little frightening for some. As Dr. Irina Todorov, MD, observes, floatation therapy is not for people who feel claustrophobic. After all, you are sitting for half an hour inside a dark tank. That said, she also notes that it can help you mentally reset and relieve stress.
Long story short, taking the time to care for yourself can make all the difference during pregnancy. You are going to have a lot on your plate very soon, so indulge yourself when you have the time.
Of course, remember to do so safely, and never force yourself to try out things you aren’t comfortable with. There’s a ton of advice online, but as a soon-to-be mother, trust your instincts more than anyone or anything else.
