Prenatal massage show that hormone levels associated with relaxation and stress are significantly altered.

Women who received bi-weekly massages for only five weeks, hormones such as norepinephrine and cortisol were reduced, and dopamine and serotonin levels were increased.

These changes in hormone levels also led to fewer complications during birth and fewer instances of newborn complications, such as low birth weight. The evidence strongly suggests there are maternal and newborn health benefits when therapeutic massage is incorporated into regular prenatal care.

Other potential benefits of prenatal massage:

• Hormone regulation
• Reduce swelling
• Improves nerve pain
• Reduced back pain
• Reduced joint pain
• Improved circulation
• Reduced edema
• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles
• Better sleep
• Reduced muscle tension and headaches