11.15.05
Pregnant women who received body massage from their significant other during the second trimester experienced reduced levels of stress hormones (cortisol and norepinephrine) and were more likely to have a successful full-term pregnancy, according to a study by the Touch Research Institutes at the University of Miami School of Medicine and Duke University Medical School’s Department of Pharmacology. The study was funded by Johnson & Johnson Pediatric Institute, LLC, the National Institute of Mental Health and the March of Dimes.
Experts said elevated stress hormones can lead to complications during pregnancy including low birth weight and even miscarriage. The study reported that massage also alleviated aches, pains and swelling, improved sleep, eased depression and strengthened relationships.
Experts said elevated stress hormones can lead to complications during pregnancy including low birth weight and even miscarriage. The study reported that massage also alleviated aches, pains and swelling, improved sleep, eased depression and strengthened relationships.