The Second Trimester - Time to Relax!

In this article series, we are exploring each trimester. The topics we'll cover include how the mother-to-be might be feeling physically, easy self-care recommendations, and the stages of development for the baby. In the last issue, we discussed the first trimester, and discovered how safe and effective massage therapy can be during the first weeks of pregnancy. In the next issue, we will look at the final stages of the amazing third trimester!

As a mother's body begins to noticeably change in the second trimester of pregnancy, taking the time to relax and release held tension ensures more energy and a greater sense of well-being throughout pregnancy.

During the second trimester of pregnancy (14-28 weeks), a mother-to-be will gradually shift her center of gravity as her body adapts to the baby's growth in size and weight. As these structural changes in her body occur, there can be stress in the lower back muscles contracting to counter-balance the weight in the front of the body. The uterus is anchored to the pelvis and sacrum through ligaments that can begin to cause back aches as the baby grows and gains weight. The rib cage widens to allow the diaphragm to elevate, making deep abdominal breathing difficult in later months, and pectoral muscles can be oriented differently causing upper back and neck strain.

One of the most significant physical changes for the mom-to-be is in the circulatory system. Increased blood volume combined with the increased size of the baby can lead to pressure on the arteries that branch out from inside the pelvis to the legs, which can be the cause of swollen ankles, leg cramping and potentially blood clots. The increase of blood volume also can cause swelling in the arms and hands, which may lead to a temporary case of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Beginning a prenatal exercise regime such as prenatal yoga, walking, and light aerobics can be beneficial to help regulate energy, circulation and improve quality of sleep for the mother-to-be. Good circulation and exercise can help reduce anxiety, and is a great way to do something that is good for you and your baby! For nutrition advice, see a naturopath or dietician, and browse previously published articles and recipes at www.frombellytobaby.ca

Massage Therapy will increase circulation and help create space in the body to relieve the pressure from the baby's weight. Weight gain and loosening of the joints can cause women to feel off balance and clumsy. Massage can relax the muscles around the joints and ground and balance a pregnant woman.

Give it a Try

Many people consider massage therapy a luxury, but it has so many physical health benefits and is more of a necessity for some patients. Emotionally, it's very beneficial for women to be touched when they are pregnant. A lot of pregnant women don't necessarily get as much physical touching as they would like, and it's a very nurturing thing having someone taking care of you, and it's a great bonding experience with the baby when you're both receiving massage.

Consider the concept of "metta", translated as "loving-kindness" - nuture yourself, and you'll have what you need to nurture and take good care of your baby.

Inform your therapist about your pregnancy and current state of health and it will create an opportunity for long-term support. Prenatal massage, prenatal yoga and reflexology are available at Metta Massage & Yoga Clinic with on-line booking at www.mettamassage.com.