A common question I get is, are massages safe while pregnant? Good news! Massages are safe to have are totally fine and safe to have during pregnancy.
In fact, massages are often what I suggest for women who are having significant back discomfort.
Massages offer several advantages during pregnancy:
- Pain Relief: Many pregnant women experience backaches and muscle tension due to the added weight and shifting posture. Massages can help relieve these discomforts by reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation.
- Stress Reduction: Pregnancy can bring about emotional and physical stress. Massages are an excellent way to relax and unwind, which can positively impact both the mother’s and baby’s well-being.
- Improved Sleep: Better sleep can be elusive during pregnancy due to discomfort and hormonal changes. Massages can improve sleep quality by relaxing the body and mind.
- Enhanced Circulation: Proper blood circulation is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. Massages can aid in promoting blood flow, potentially reducing swelling and enhancing overall circulatory health.
- Mood Elevation: Hormonal fluctuations can lead to mood swings and anxiety during pregnancy. Massages release endorphins, which can elevate mood and reduce anxiety.
Be Sure To Tell Them You’re Pregnant Before Your Massage
Although massages are safe while pregnant, you will want to make sure the massage therapist knows that you’re pregnant.
Just know ahead of time that some massage facilities may not treat women who are in their first trimester. This is simply out of liability concerns because of the increased risk of miscarriage in the first twelve weeks.
The first-trimester risk is simply the baseline risk of miscarriage and has nothing to do with getting a massage.
However, you do want to make sure that they know you’re pregnant and will see you before you go.
Most massage therapists have gone through training on how to correctly treat women who are pregnant. However, it’s a good idea to make sure the massage therapist themselves is comfortable taking care of women in their pregnancy.
