Reduces stress, promotes relaxation, facilitates transitions through emotional support and physical nurturing

Reduces edema and blood pressure, relieves varicose veins, and increases blood and lymph circulation

Facilitates hormonal, respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary, and other physiological processes during pregnancy

Reduces musculoskeletal strain and pain

Contributes to developing flexibility and the kinesthetic awareness necessary to actively participate in the birth process

Fosters nurturing maternal touch

Contributes to shorter, less painful labor

Reduces labor comlications, medications, and interventions

Improves infant well-being

Facilitates postpartum emotional, physiological, and family adjustments

Reduces musculoskeletal and organic pain

Promotes structural realignment of the spine and pelvis, and reorganization of movement

Contributes to rehabilitation of abdominal skin, muscles, and organs

Promotes recovery from cesarean birth, including healing of the incision

Relieves muscle strain caused by childcare activities