Is Massage Safe For Pregnant Women?

When to massage during pregnancy?

Some pregnant women like to have a massage during their 4th month of pregnancy or even when they are about to go into labor. During the first trimester of pregnancy (14 weeks or less), pregnant women should avoid massage because it can cause a higher miscarriage rate and increase feelings of nausea.

Benefits of massage during pregnancy

– Reduce stress.

– Improve mood and sleep.

– Reduce swelling.

– Migraine pain relief.

– Relieve low back, pelvic, neck, shoulder, leg or sciatic nerve pain.

– Stabilize hormones.

– Improve blood circulation.

– Reduces the risk of premature labor.

Risks of massage during pregnancy

Massage during the first trimester of pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage. Women with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes, should consult their doctor before getting a pregnancy massage.

When to avoid massage during pregnancy?

You should avoid massage during pregnancy if you have the following problems:

– High risk of preterm birth.

– High blood pressure or preeclampsia.

– Blood clots or blood clotting disorders.

– Having problems with the placenta.

Note when massage during pregnancy:

If you are in the second or third trimester of pregnancy and want a relaxing massage, you should lie on your side and have a pillow.

The massage therapist or person helping you should start the massage from the neck, shoulders, first. It will then move down to the arms and legs.