Can you get a massage while pregnant?

Pregnancy is a time of physical and emotional changes for a woman and many expectant mothers may be wondering whether it is safe to get a massage while pregnant. In general, massages can be beneficial for pregnant women as they can help to reduce stress, improve circulation and can alleviate muscle aches and pains. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before receiving a massage as certain precautions may need to be taken.

One of the main concerns when receiving a massage during pregnancy is the risk of the therapist applying excessive pressure, which can be harmful for both the mother and the unborn child. It is important to let the therapist know that you are pregnant and to communicate any discomfort or pain that you may be experiencing during the massage. It is important for the therapist to have specialized training in pregnancy massage and be able to adapt their techniques accordingly.

Another potential concern is the risk of the massage inducing preterm labor. While there is no evidence to suggest that massages can cause preterm labor, it is still important to be cautious and to avoid massages in the later stages of pregnancy, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or if you have a history of preterm labor.

There are also certain areas of the body that should be avoided during pregnancy massages. The abdomen and lower back should be avoided in the first trimester, as these areas contain important reflex points that could potentially stimulate uterine contractions. In the second and third trimesters, these areas can typically be massaged as long as the therapist is careful to avoid applying too much pressure.

There are also certain massage techniques that should be avoided during pregnancy. Deep tissue massages and hot stone massages are generally not recommended, as they may be too intense for a pregnant woman's body. Swedish massages, which are gentler and involve long, flowing strokes, are typically a better option for pregnant women.

[It is recommended to avoid hot stone massages while pregnant]

It is also important for pregnant women to be mindful of the position in which they receive the massage. Lying on the back for an extended period of time can put pressure on the vena cava, a large vein that carries blood from the lower half of the body back to the heart. This can be harmful to both the mother and the baby, as it can restrict blood flow and cause dizziness or nausea. Instead, it is recommended that pregnant women lie on their side or in a semi-reclined position with a pillow supporting the abdomen for optimal comfort and safety during the massage.

Receiving massages during pregnancy can provide several benefits, such as:

• Reducing stress and anxiety
• Improving circulation to reduce swelling and fatigue
• Relieving common muscle aches and pains
• Increasing relaxation and sleep
• Improving mood,
• Boosting the immune system
• Increasing flexibility
  
  

[Getting a massage while pregnant can have a range of benefits]

These benefits can be especially beneficial for expectant mothers. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before getting a massage and to inform the therapist of your pregnancy. It is critical for the therapist to have specialised knowledge in pregnancy massage and possess the ability to modify their techniques as necessary to ensure the safety and comfort of the pregnant individual.

Certain areas of the body and certain massage techniques should be avoided and pregnant women should be mindful of the position in which they receive the massage in order to avoid any potential risks. Pregnant women who are considering getting a pregnancy massage should be aware of the potential risks, these risks include:

• Risk of excessive pressure being applied by the therapist, which can be harmful for both the mother and the unborn child
• Certain medical conditions may make a massage during pregnancy inappropriate or dangerous
• Risk of discomfort or pain if the woman is not in a comfortable position
• Risks associated with the use of oils or lotions that may be harmful to the pregnant woman or the baby
• Risk of a premature labor or other complications, if any underlying medical condition is present.
• Potential stimulation of uterine contractions through abdominal or lower back reflex points and deep tissue or hot stone massages that may be too intense.

It is always recommended to consult with your doctor or midwife before getting a massage during pregnancy. You can feel secure and at ease by selecting a professional and experienced pregnancy massage therapist who is well-versed in the individual's pregnancy and medical history as well as specialises in pregnancy massage.

At Revive, we specialise in pregnancy massage (across multiple clinics in Brisbane QLD) and offer pillows as support for all pregnancy massages. Our trained pregnancy massage therapists are here to ensure you get the best experience from your pregnancy massage and we take the time to get to know more about you and your pregnancy journey. Reach out to our friendly team to schedule an appointment or learn more about our pregnancy massage services.