I am 38 weeks pregnant and I went for a pregnancy (prenatal) massage and I cannot tell you how good it felt. I should have definitely gone earlier and a million more times in those 38 weeks.
A few questions ran through my head before going and even after going for my massage! So I set you up with the below information to encourage you to get a pregnancy massage, but also to make sure you do it while absolutely relaxed knowing you have the right answers.
In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of pregnancy massage, potential dangers, the trimester to avoid massage, where to find safe prenatal massage services, the impact of pregnancy massage on inducing labor, what to look for in pregnancy massage treatments, and the recommended positions for a pregnancy massage.
Is massage safe during pregnancy
According to ACOG and American Pregnancy Association. Massages done correctly are SAFE during the entire pregnancy including early pregnancy, and late pregnancy. This doesn’t mean ANY massage is okay during pregnancy. There are specific positions to use and precautions to look out for.
Benefits of Pregnancy Massage
- Relief from muscle tension and discomfort: Pregnancy can lead to various musculoskeletal issues that most of us know way too well such as lower back pain, sciatica, and joint stiffness. Pregnancy massage can provide relief by targeting specific areas and releasing tension. It felt SO good to have my painful areas massaged.
- Improved circulation and reduced swelling: The gentle strokes and techniques used in pregnancy massage can enhance blood and lymph circulation, reducing swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet. And we seriously need that. Especially in the third trimester.
- Stress and anxiety reduction: Massage therapy promotes relaxation, lowers stress hormones, and stimulates the release of endorphins, enhancing overall well-being. You would be so surprised with the research benefits of massage for pregnant women suffering from depression. It also releases oxytocin and that’s exactly what we need to have more of especially in the last few weeks of pregnancy.
- Surprising benefits for the baby: pregnancy massages reduce the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight babies!
- Better sleep quality: Many pregnant women struggle with sleep disturbances. Pregnancy massage promotes relaxation, leading to improved sleep quality and duration.
Do you know what’s SO COOL? You don’t have to pay a ton to get the benefits of pregnancy massages. The benefits are equally valid if your partner is giving you the massage too! The key is to aim for at least 20 minutes per week.
Trimester to Avoid Massage: None
There is no research to say a massage is NOT safe at any trimester for healthy pregnant women. ACOG and American Pregnancy Association mention that it is safe. Some massage therapists and experts will not provide a pregnancy massage during the first trimester, as it is a crucial period of fetal development and there is an increased risk of miscarriage. If you are pregnant but not showing, tell your massage provider.
However, it is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.
Dangers and Precautions of Pregnancy Massage
While pregnancy massage is generally safe in all trimesters, there are a few precautions to consider:
- High-risk pregnancies: Women with certain medical conditions or high-risk pregnancies, such as risk of preterm labor, preeclampsia, or placenta previa, should consult their healthcare provider before receiving a pregnancy massage.
- Deep tissue massage and pressure points: Avoid deep tissue massage or applying pressure to specific points that are believed to induce labor, as this can be dangerous during pregnancy (if you have not reached 39 weeks of pregnancy).
- Avoid getting a massage on your stomach. This is common in many countries in the world, but should be avoided.
- Avoid getting a massage while being on your back the whole time. This can compress a major blood vessel that takes blood to your uterus. Being on your side is preferred.
- Avoid receiving treatments that can be irritating to the skin, cause allergies, or blends that are not pregnancy safe. My massage therapist for example straight up told me: I can use lavender or orange essential oil but not other essential oils on you.
- Avoid getting deep leg massages. A case report showed a pregnancy leg massage can be life threatening. A deep leg massage with patients with deep vein thrombosis can dislodge thrombi, leading to life threatening pulmonary embolism, and should be avoided. In this case the woman suffered and she did NOT know she had a thrombi. This sounds scary but is very rare. Which is why it is a great idea to always consult with your doctor on your individual case especially if you have a family history of DVT. Read more about Deep Vein Thrombosis and how to avoid it here.
Should I Get a Pregnancy Massage on My Stomach or Side?
During the first trimester, you may still be able to lie on your stomach comfortably. However, as the pregnancy progresses, lying on your stomach becomes impractical and potentially dangerous. Most therapists use a side-lying position supported by pillows or specialized cushions to ensure safety and comfort. Side-lying allows for effective massage while minimizing pressure on the abdomen and ensuring proper blood flow.
So here’s the thing. Some places will offer you either side laying OR on your stomach with a cut out for your stomach. While this feels AMAZING, apparently it’s not recommended. This is what the American Pregnancy Association says about that:
“Tables that provide a hole in which the uterus can fit may not be reliable and can still apply pressure to the abdomen, or allow the abdomen to dangle, causing uncomfortable stretching of the uterine ligaments”
So what happened with me, is that the center asked me if I want a side laying or front facing massage (with the cut out chair). I asked for a front facing and I immediately regret it while inside the session.
I felt that my abdomen as a bit squished, I felt it put pressure on my lower back, and I was overall very conscious. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVED getting my back massaged, but next time I will ask for side laying.
Does Pregnancy Massage Induce Labor?
Let me tell you. I’ve dug deep into this research. With my first pregnancy I didn’t go into spontaneous labor and ended up with a C-section (bubble of peace – If you know what I mean) and I would really love to go into spontaneous labor in this pregnancy. So, I WILL try everything I can which I know is safe.
So, can it induce labor? Even though we know it raises oxytocin (the hormone we need most for contractions and birth) there has been no proof that a pregnancy massage induces labor. In theory and logically, if your body is READY to go into labor and you give it an oxytocin boost, it may nudge things a bit. However, this has not been documented.
So, in my mind I figured if it does nudge things a little bit, makes my endless pains feel better, gives me an oxytocin boost, and releases some of my anxiety. SIGN ME UP. I did feel slightly contractions after my massage, but it’s been a week and I did not go into labor. Let me tell you though, I will be going to another one THIS week. Getting as many massages in before the insanity of postpartum kicks in.
Where to Get a Prenatal Massage Safely
When seeking a pregnancy massage, it is VERY important to look for a qualified and experienced massage therapist who specializes in pregnancy massage. Look for therapists who:
- Are certified in prenatal massage: Seek therapists who have received specific training in prenatal massage techniques.
- Practice in reputable establishments: Opt for licensed spas, wellness centers, or clinics that prioritize safety, cleanliness, and professionalism.
- Knowledgable about pregnancy-safe oils and lotions: Confirm that the therapist uses pregnancy-safe products that are free from potentially harmful ingredients.
Do not simply go to the nearest massage center. Check their website for a prenatal massage center, reviews, and give them a call to confirm that they do prenatal massages and ask them any necessary questions.
Conclusion
Pregnancy massage can be a wonderful way relax during pregnancy and feel better physically and mentally.
Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any massage therapy, and always choose reputable sources and certified professionals for a safe and enjoyable prenatal massage.
