Do I need to tell my midwife that I am booking a massage?

You should consult your GP or midwife prior to receiving any alternative treatment.

How long and how much is treatment?

The initial appointment including a consultation is approx 1 hour and 15 minutes. Subsequent treatments are 1 hour. Cost of massage from the Mummy massage treatment room in Kempston is £30. If you would like to book a mobile massage at your home, the fee is £40 (please ensure there is adequate space for a massage couch). I cover Bedford and its surrounding areas, including St. Neots, Sandy, Biggleswade and Flitwick. If you area is not listed, please contact me.

Can I receive massage during the first trimester?

Yes absolutely. Massage is adapted during every stage of pregnancy. In the first trimester extra care and caution is taken.

When is massage not suitable?

If your pregnancy is classed as ‘high risk’ written consent should be obtained from your GP or Midwife. If there is a history of miscarriage or any spotting, massage should be avoided until after the 4th week of the second trimester.

It is best to avoid a large meal prior to your treatment.

Can massage help with morning sickness?

Constant fluctuation of hormones is thought to be the major cause behind morning sickness and nausea. Massage stimulates different glands in the body which in turn helps to stabilize hormone levels.

The World Health Organization recognises that nausea and sickness as having been successfully treated with the use of acupuncture. Tui Na incorporates the stimulation of acupuncture points through focused massage. If you would prefer I can combine your treatment with acupuncture needles and massage.

Morning sickness is something that can occur on a daily basis, and often throughout the day. You will be shown acupressure points (based on your personal diagnosis) which you can stimulate yourself whenever you feel sick.

How can massage help me and my baby?

Massage can help the muscles to relax allowing blood and energy to move more freely, leading to better circulation which keeps blood flowing to both mother and baby. It can also decrease swelling and increase energy levels.

Pregnancy is often a time when sleep can become disturbed and difficult, massage can help you to release tension, relax, sleep better and have a general feeling of well being. Your relaxed body is a great environment for your baby and many women find that it can help you to connect with your pregnant body and bond with your baby.

Can massage be used if I am overdue or in labour?

Pregnancy can be stressful and when delivery is overdue, the body can become more tense and essentially delay labour further. Massage can help by allowing you to relax and deepen your breath. As your muscles relax and release, the body will find itself in a place where labour can feel safe and begin naturally.

Yes massage can be used during labour. In the early stages, persistent lower backache is quite common and massage can help to alleviate pain allowing you to cope more comfortably.

Will I need any treatment after I have had my baby?

The 6 weeks after childbirth is a time of recuperation for your body and it can be a very emotional time. A dramatic shift in hormones can cause symptoms such as fatigue, changes in mood and anxiety, all of which massage can benefit. It is a time of also adapting to life with your new baby and post partum massage can be a little time just for you.

There is a technique called ‘Mother Roasting’ which is a one off treatment that can be given between the 4th and 14th day after child birth. The aim is to help your body to recover from birth and regain energy. Please contact me for further information.