NEW STUDY FINDS PREGNANCY MASSAGE CAN LEAD TO A HEALTHIER PREGNANCY AND MAY REDUCE PREMATURE BIRTHS
Pregnancy massage has been known to help expectant mothers feel better, but a new study (in America) shows it may provide an even more important benefit - reducing the risk of premature births.

The study, conducted by the Touch Research Institutes at the University of Miami School of Medicine and Duke University Medical School's Department of Pharmacology in America, found that body massages on pregnant women conducted by their "significant others" led to reduced levels of stress hormones in the mother, and thereby increased the likelihood of a successful full-term pregnancy.

The research found that in addition to relaxing the mother, massage might bring better balance to stress hormones including cortisol and norepinephrine. Elevated stress hormones can lead to complications during pregnancy including low birth weight and even miscarriage.

The study focused on massage during the second trimester of pregnancy. While other studies have reported beneficial findings in pregnancy massage by trained therapists, the new study keyed on massage by the partner in the relationship, providing for a cost-effective, at-home way for couples to improve the outcome of pregnancy for mother and baby.

In addition to playing a positive role in reducing a pregnant woman's stress, massage also alleviates aches, pains and swelling for the mother, improves her sleep and eases depression, the study reported.

For more information and educational materials on touch therapy and maternal and infant care, Visit: www.jjpi.com.