Can You Get A Massage When You’re Pregnant?
Being pregnant comes with a lot of aches and pains: lower back pain, heavy bellies, leg cramps, the list goes on and on. The soreness and stress lead many women to wonder if they can get a massage during their pregnancy. Don’t worry – the answer is yes! However, when it comes to prenatal massage, there are some conditions.
Research shows that massages during pregnancy can provide many benefits, including an enhanced sense of well-being, heightened relaxation, and improved sleep. But certain kinds of massage are off-limits to those who are expecting.
Staying Safe During A Prenatal Massage
Women can begin massage at any point in their pregnancy; however, the first trimester carries higher risks, and some massage experts will not do massages on women who are in the earliest stages. Most forms of massage involve the body’s circulatory system, altering the flow of blood. There is a concern that this increased circulation during a massage might be harmful and raise the chances of miscarriage.
There are some pressure points on the body that are believed to begin contractions or induce labour. Because of this, many prenatal massage experts need a doctor’s release before they work with women in the first trimester. As well, hot stone and deep tissue massages are off-limits, as the extremes can put undue stress on the mother’s body.
As well, pregnant women with the following conditions should talk to their doctor before making any commitments:
- Congenital heart disease
- Preeclampsia or unmedicated high blood pressure
- Recent injury, surgery, or organ transplant
While this might seem like a lot of warnings, don’t let them dissuade you from looking into getting a massage. When the conditions are right, a prenatal massage can relieve the pain and stress that comes with pregnancy. Many women have a better, more effective experience when they can control the environment around them during their appointment, which is why mobile massages are perfect.
Why Mobile Massage Is Ideal During Pregnancy
Pregnant women often feel much less mobile, and this can make going to an appointment a big hassle. With mobile prenatal massage services, the client doesn’t have to leave their home, and the whole appointment takes place in an area where they are most comfortable. They can control the lighting, sounds, and aromas, too, reducing the potential for pregnancy-induced triggers.
Massages reduce the levels of stress hormones in the body, relaxing the mind, and loosening the muscles. It’s not the same process as a routine massage, though; once we discuss your needs, we adapt the treatment for the changes the body goes through during pregnancy. If you are not comfortable with a body massage, we can focus on specific parts (feet, legs, etc.) to ease any pain you may feel in those areas!
Please DO NOT pursue treatments of any kind without consulting your doctor!
