ELEVATING YOUR PREGNANCY JOURNEY
Pregnancy is a magical journey, but it can take a toll on your body as your baby grows. You shouldn’t have to suffer through aching joints, muscle spasms, sciatica and round ligament pain. Our signature NYC maternity massage and stretch therapy is designed to keep you comfortable throughout your pregnancy so you can soak up this precious time and still maintain the exercise and physical activities you enjoy.
Massage during pregnancy not only soothes away your pain, it also helps to alleviate any anxiety and stress you may be feeling. A calmer, happier you is good for the baby too since your baby is exposed to everything you experience. When you feel happy and calm, it allows your baby to develop in a happy, calm environment. Our therapeutic prenatal massage in NYC will leave you feeling like you’re floating. You’ll leave feeling so relaxed it might just put you to sleep.
Through her own experience as a mother, Noelle McKenzie, co-founder of Leading Edge, has found that regular exercise, massage and stretching make the biggest difference in preparing your body for the physical demands of pregnancy. Having gone through a pretty treacherous pregnancy the first time around, Noelle regularly sought the aid of a massage therapist to help with her pelvic pain and to calm her nerves. Her intent in crafting Leading Edge’s unique blend of massage and stretch therapy is to prolong this feeling of relief and relaxation so you can keep reaping the benefits for days and weeks after each treatment. Massage alone keeps you comfortable in the moment, but when you combine that with specific stretching techniques that are designed to improve flexibility, alignment, blood circulation, range of motion and movement patterns while reducing inflammation and tension in the body you’re left with a prolonged feeling of satisfaction.
Our licensed and trained masseuse Kurush brings a level of expertise, a special touch and a keen eye for knowing the exact amount of pressure to apply that can’t be beat.
Leading Edge has developed a technique for massage during pregnancy that keeps expecting mothers comfortable at every stage of their pregnancy so that you know when you choose our prenatal massage NYC you’re in good hands.
Research shows that women who receive regular prenatal massages have an easier time with pain and discomfort during pregnancy and even during labor and delivery. These same women report having:
Less leg, back and joint pain and pain from sciatica
Shorter labors by an average of 3 hours
Less pain medication needed during labor and therefore less epidurals are administered
Recent studies have found that even with c-section rates increasing globally, better pain management increases the likelihood of a natural birth over a cesarean.
Massage therapy has even been shown to have positive effects on your unborn baby. Reports have found that by reducing depression, anxiety and cortisol levels in pregnant women, massage therapy has been linked to lower incidences of prematurity and low birth weights.
Our job here at Leading Edge in NYC is to make sure the support we provide you with our massage therapy nyc is science-backed so that you can relax into our care knowing we’re keeping you and your baby safe and looking out for what’s best for you.
The beauty of pregnancy is that your body is busy growing a little human, which means that your body is constantly changing. Your body’s needs will also change during each trimester of pregnancy. We’re here to support you through each of these phases.
Pregnancy Massage in the first trimester
Just like with exercise, prenatal massage is great to introduce in the first trimester to set the foundation for your pregnancy. During this time we can assess any pain-points, areas of compensation or muscular imbalance or tightness in the body. This early detection gives us time to help correct these issues before they become more pronounced as your baby grows and your center of gravity changes. Using our uniquely crafted blend of massage and assisted stretching we can help you improve your form, mobility, posture, flexibility and reduce any tightness in the body to allow you to move and feel better.
Massage therapy is also great for supporting your emotional health. You may be experiencing lots of different emotions as your body is flooded with hormones, which can be unsettling. Massage is a great tool for promoting muscle relaxation and remember the mind is also a muscle.
Pregnancy Massage in the second trimester
During your second trimester your body has to make room for your growing baby which is now about the size of a peach. As the uterus starts to grow upward into the abdominal cavity you may start to feel more discomfort such as round ligament pain because your organs have to shift out of place.
Massage and assisted stretching can help you adapt to these changes by strengthening the ligaments that become loose due to the relaxin hormone that is released during pregnancy. Strengthening these ligaments provides support to your pelvis and back to alleviate any aches and pains you may be experiencing. It can be challenging adjusting to your ever-changing body in pregnancy. You may feel like you don’t recognize yourself anymore. Massage therapy can help release endorphins to boost your mood and overall feeling of well-being.
Pregnancy Massage in the third trimester
Your third trimester is when your body starts to begin preparing for the arrival of your baby. You may notice that your baby is starting to drop,putting more pressure on your pelvis and strain on your lower back. Walking and standing for long periods of time may start to become more difficult and you may even struggle to bend over and see your toes. Swelling in your ankles, knuckles and even in your face may be present. Prenatal massage is designed to help put your body and mind at ease and to start preparing your body for labor.
Once you’re considered full-term at 39 weeks it’s safe for your baby to come at any time. Massage can be used to help guide your baby into the right position for birth and to promote labor naturally using acupressure. This can be a great way to avoid needing an induction and as a result can increase the likelihood of a natural birth.
Prenatal massage and regular massage have some key differences due to the specific needs and considerations of pregnant women. Here are the main distinctions between the two:
- Positioning during massage. During a regular massage, you can lie on your stomach or back. In a prenatal massage, however, you’re typically positioned on your side with the support of pillows. This side-lying position helps ensure the safety and comfort of you and your baby.
- Pressure points: Prenatal massage avoids specific pressure points that are thought to induce labor. Therapists are trained to avoid these points to prevent any complications during pregnancy. Regular massage has more discretion in terms of how much pressure is applied and where.
- Focus areas: Prenatal massage often focuses on addressing the specific discomforts associated with pregnancy, such as lower back pain, swelling in the feet and legs and hip pain. Regular massages can target a wider range of issues including sports-related injuries.
- Modifications: Prenatal massage therapists are trained to modify their technique to accommodate the changing needs of pregnancy. This might include using lighter pressure, avoiding certain massage techniques and being mindful of you and your baby’s overall well-being. With regular massage modifications are not necessary unless requested.
- Benefits: Both types of massages offer relaxation, stress relief and pain management. However, prenatal massage is tailored to your unique needs during pregnancy, providing relief from pregnancy specific discomforts and promoting overall relaxation, which can be particularly beneficial during this time.
- Certification and experience: Prenatal massage therapists undergo specialized training to understand the physiological and anatomical changes that occur during pregnancy. This knowledge is essential for providing safe and effective massages for pregnant women.
If you are pregnant it is important to seek out therapists who are specifically trained in prenatal massage to ensure your safety and well-being. Although prenatal massages are generally considered safe during any stage of pregnancy, always first consult with a healthcare provider beforehand to ensure it’s safe for both you and your baby.
Post pregnancy massage after your baby is born should be an essential part of your self-care practice. As a new mother you’re dealing with sleepless nights, a body that is still in pain and the added stress of caring for your new baby. Postnatal massage helps to make these unpleasant changes more bearable. It’s also important to help restore your body by helping your uterus to contract back down and resolving any incontinence you may be experiencing.
To book a prenatal massage NYC with us you’ll need to first choose your preferred massage type or you can let it up to our therapist to decide based on your needs and then contact us to book your appointment!
You can let us know at the time of booking if you’ll be needing a massage table or not. From there we take care of the rest!
We offer the convenience of never having to leave your front door for a massage again. We come right to you with all the supplies we need to give you the most memorable massage experience each and every time
When you book a massage with us you don’t have to stress. We make it easy for you. Our licensed NYC massage therapist will come right to your home if you live within the New York City area. Our massage sessions are usually 60 minutes, but we are happy to extend your session for as long as you need. At Leading Edge our trained and experienced massage therapists will listen to your body’s needs, adjusting the intensity to suit your comfort level and incorporating various stretching techniques into your massage to ease away any pain or tension you may be feeling.
If you need any tips on exercise and nutrition during pregnancy we can also help as these are also services we provide. We are your one stop shop for all your pregnancy fitness needs.
Kurush was AMAZING!!!
Neahle Jones
He was on time. Super professional and really got in there, working those trouble areas.
Liz Weber
Good! He’s super pro. I felt lighter and looser immediately after. He’s definitely very clinical in his approach.
Thomas Howell
He's good! He's very knowledgeable and everytime I felt so much looser after.
Harold McClure
I had a very good session. He definitely helped open up my hips and loosened up the tightness in my lower calves.
Deborah Paredez
Great! My back feels better!
Julie Thibault
If you book a single session it is priced at $165/sesion (+20 if you require a massage table).
If you join our membership program, which is a subscription service, you receive 2 sessions per month for $300/month (+ $20 if you require a table).
For all scheduled appointments we have a 10 hour cancellation policy where you must provide us at least 10 hours notice to cancel or reschedule your appointment to avoid being charged.
AND START FEELING BETTER!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Prenatal massages can be safe and beneficial, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider, specifically an obstetrician or a midwife, before starting any prenatal massage therapy. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual pregnancy and health situation.
The first trimester is a critical time for the development of the fetus, and some practitioners prefer to wait until this period is over to avoid any potential complications.
Yes, prenatal massage can be a full-body massage, but it depends on your preferences and comfort level. Prenatal massage therapists are trained to work on various parts of the body, including the back, shoulders, legs and feet. They use techniques that are safe and comfortable for pregnant women, often focusing on areas that commonly cause discomfort during pregnancy.
During your prenatal massage, you can discuss your specific needs and areas of concern with the massage therapist. Some pregnant individuals prefer a full-body massage, while others might want to focus on specific areas of tension or discomfort. The massage therapist will tailor the session to your preferences and ensure that you’re comfortable at all times.
It’s important to communicate openly with the massage therapist about your comfort level, any pain or discomfort you may be experiencing and any areas you would like them to focus on or avoid. This will help ensure that you’re receiving the best service for your needs.
Getting a massage during pregnancy can be a wonderful way to relax and alleviate some of the discomforts associated with pregnancy. However, there are several important things to keep in mind to ensure both your safety and the effectiveness of the massage:
- Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Always consult your obstetrician or midwife or other healthcare provider before getting a prenatal massage. They can advise whether it’s safe for you and provide any specific guidelines based on your individual pregnancy.
- Choose a Certified Prenatal Massage Therapist: Look for a massage therapist who is certified in prenatal massage and has experience working with pregnant clients. Prenatal massage therapists are trained in specific techniques that are safe and comfortable for pregnant women.
- Communicate Openly: Clearly communicate your needs, concerns and any specific areas of discomfort with the massage therapist. Be vocal about the pressure level you are comfortable with and any areas to avoid such as certain pressure points or sensitive areas.
- Avoid Certain Techniques and Pressure Points: Some massage techniques and pressure points are contraindicated during pregnancy as they stimulate uterine contractions. A trained prenatal massage therapist will be aware of these points and avoid them.
- Avoid Deep Tissue Massage: While deep tissue massage can be beneficial for some people, it’s generally recommended to avoid very deep pressure during prenatal massages. Gentle to moderate pressure is usually more appropriate and safer during pregnancy.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water before and after your massage to stay hydrated. Massage can help release toxins from your muscles and staying hydrated can aid in flushing out these toxins from your body.
- Listen To Your Body: If you feel any pain or discomfort during your massage, let the therapist know immediately. Your comfort and safety are our top priority.
- Take Your Time Getting Up: After your massage, take your time getting up and moving around. Some people might feel a bit lightheaded or dizzy after a massage, so it’s essential to move slowly and give yourself a moment to adjust.
While massage can improve the elasticity of the skin and increase blood circulation, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that massage can prevent or eliminate stretch marks.
Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches rapidly due to weight gain or growth, and they are a common part of pregnancy for many women. They are caused by changes in elastic supportive tissue beneath the skin.
While massage might not directly prevent stretch marks, it can still be a beneficial part of self-care during pregnancy. The relaxation and stress reduction provided by massage can contribute to an overall sense of well-being during this special time. If you’re concerned about stretch marks, it’s essential to maintain healthy skin by staying well-hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and using moisturizers or oils recommended by your healthcare provider to keep your skin nourished and supple.
If you have specific concerns about stretch marks or skin care during pregnancy, its a good idea to discuss them with your obstetrician, dermatologist, or a qualified healthcare provider who can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs and circumstances.
Prenatal massages can help with delivery especially when done in early labor by providing natural pain management. With less pain medication and epidurals administered it has also been linked to shortened deliveries by an average of 3 hours and more natural births. Prenatal massage helps reduce stress and anxiety while promoting a sense of calm. Being able to manage stress during labor is helpful for both you and your baby.
Every pregnant woman is different so it’s important that you listen to your body’s needs. In general, many healthcare providers and prenatal massage therapists suggest getting a prenatal massage once a month during the first and second trimesters when the pregnancy is relatively stable. As your pregnancy progresses and discomforts increase, you might choose to have more frequent massages, perhaps biweekly or even weekly during the third trimester.
Self-massage techniques can be a great way to alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation during pregnancy. Here are some self-massage techniques that you can try during pregnancy.
Hand and Wrist Massage:
- Gently massage your fingers, palms, and wrists in circular motions to relieve tension.
- Stretch and wiggle your fingers to reduce stiffness.
Foot Massage:
- Sit in a comfortable position and use a tennis ball or a rolling massager under your foot to roll out tension.
- Use your hands to massage your feet, focusing on the arches and heels. You can use a little lotion or oil for smoother movements.
Neck and Shoulder Massage:
- Use your fingertips to apply gentle pressure along your neck and shoulders.
- Roll your shoulders backward and forward to release tension.
- You can also use a tennis ball against a wall to massage your back and shoulders by leaning against it and gently rolling the ball on the tense areas.
Leg Massage:
- Sit with your legs elevated and gently stroke your legs from ankles to thighs to improve circulation.
- Use your palms or knuckles to knead your thighs and calves gently.
Lower Back Massage:
- Sit on a chair with a straight back. Use your fists or palms to gently massage your lower back in circular motions.
- You can also use a tennis ball against the wall to target specific points on your lower back.
Self-Head Massage:
- Use your fingertips to gently massage your scalp in circular motions.
- Tilt your head forward and use your fingers to massage your neck and the base of your skull.
Breast and Chest Massage:
- Use gentle circular motions with your fingertips to massage your breasts and chest area. This can help improve circulation and alleviate tenderness.
Deep Breathing and Visualization:
- While not a physical massage, deep breathing exercises and visualization techniques can help you relax and release tension. Practice deep breathing exercises while focusing on calming imagery to promote relaxation throughout your body.
Always listen to your body during self-massage. If any movement or pressure causes discomfort or pain, stop immediately. If you have specific concerns or conditions during your pregnancy, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or a prenatal massage therapist attempting self-massage techniques to ensure they are safe for you and your baby.
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