Prenatal Massage: When Is It Unsafe?

Prenatal massage is a popular form of massage therapy for expectant mothers. It can help reduce stress, relieve pregnancy-related aches and pains, improve sleep, and promote overall well-being during pregnancy. 

However, there are some situations where prenatal massage may not be safe for the mother or the baby. Listed below are some circumstances where prenatal massage may be unsafe.

When Is Prenatal Massage Unsafe?

First and foremost, it is important to consult with your doctor before starting prenatal massage therapy. They can help determine if massage is safe for you based on your individual medical history and current pregnancy status. 

In general, prenatal massage is considered safe for most expectant mothers who are experiencing a healthy pregnancy. However, there are some conditions where prenatal massage may be unsafe or require modification such as:

If You Have High-Risk Pregnancy

One situation where prenatal massage may be unsafe is if the expectant mother has a high-risk pregnancy. This may include conditions such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm labour, placenta previa, or a history of preterm birth. In these cases, massage therapy may be contraindicated or require modification to ensure the safety of the mother and the baby.

If You Experience Certain Pregnancy Complications

Another situation where prenatal massage may be unsafe is if the expectant mother is experiencing certain pregnancy-related complications. For example, if the mother has severe swelling or oedema, massage therapy may be contraindicated or require modification. This is because massage can increase circulation and fluid movement, which may exacerbate swelling or oedema. Similarly, if the mother is experiencing severe sciatic pain or has been diagnosed with a herniated disc, massage may be contraindicated or require modification.

During The First Trimester

It is also important to note that prenatal massage should be avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy. This is because the first trimester is a critical period of fetal development, and massage therapy may interfere with this process. 

However, after the first trimester, prenatal massage can be a safe and effective form of therapy for expectant mothers.

In addition, certain areas of the body should be avoided during a prenatal massage. These include pressure points on the ankles, wrists, and hands. These areas are thought to stimulate contractions and should be avoided during pregnancy. Additionally, deep tissue massage should be avoided during pregnancy, as it can cause discomfort or bruising.

Choose a massage therapist who is trained and experienced in prenatal massage. Prenatal massage requires specialised knowledge and techniques to ensure the safety and comfort of the mother and the baby. A qualified massage therapist will know how to modify the massage to accommodate the changing needs of the mother’s body throughout pregnancy.

By following these guidelines, expectant mothers can safely enjoy the many benefits of prenatal massage therapy.

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Also Read:

5 Ways Every Mom-to-be Can Look After Her Underarms: Use these tips to keep your underarms clean.

4 Ingredients For Every Mom To Use With Ceramides: Find out what you need to use with ceramides.

Cover image source: freepik