Many women find it challenging to cope with their bodily changes during pregnancy. And they may not welcome the idea of receiving a deep tissue massage because they think it could be harmful to their baby’s health.

But the truth is that pregnant women can enjoy the benefits of deep tissue massage when it’s done correctly and certain areas are avoided.

Hence, consulting with prenatal massage experts would go a long way to help you identify which pressure points to avoid and where expectant mothers need the most attention.

Is massage therapy good for a pregnant woman? Follow along now to find out!

So Can I Get A Deep Tissue Massage While Pregnant?

Yes, it’s okay to get a deep tissue massage while pregnant. Moreso, it’s essential that you get it as early as ten weeks into the pregnancy.

It’s essential that you lay on your side while receiving a deep tissue massage. Ensure your face isn’t down, except prenatal cushions are utilized. It enables you to have your face down without posing a risk to the fetus.

A qualified massage therapist with solid prenatal knowledge can use the appropriate draping and cushioning method to massage pregnant women during a session.

An experienced prenatal massage expert can help ease some or most of the pains and discomfort associated with pregnancy. 

However, ensure that a pregnant woman drinks a lot of water once she’s done getting a massage. 

Also Read: Massage Therapy: 14 Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What Benefits Can A Pregnant Woman Get From Massage?

There’s no denying that deep tissue massage is beneficial for expectant mothers. However, it has to be done with utmost caution.

Here are some benefits:

• Boost blood flow and supply more oxygen and nutrients to mother and fetus
• It helps to alleviate back pain, sciatic discomfort, associated swelling, and cramps.
• It helps to strengthen the immune system.
• It can promote endorphins release, which interferes with pain signals to the brain.
• It lowers fatigue, anxiety, and depression 
• It encourages quality night sleep
• It decreases swelling that occurs in the hands, feet, and ankles

What Areas Should Not Be Massaged During Pregnancy?

You must understand that there are areas to focus on and areas to avoid during a deep tissue massage for pregnant women. For example, even though massage therapy can alleviate tension, stress, and swelling, you need to prevent massaging some pressure points.

Some of the area’s experts recommend you stay clear of include:

• Pressure points associated with the pelvis
• Pressure points related to the ankles
• Pressure points related to the wrists
• Pressure points about the hands

Note: Deep tissue massage on the legs of pregnant women can cause blood clots. Ensure to do it with caution!

How To Massage Your Pregnant Wife

A pregnant woman is likely dealing with a lot of pain and discomfort due to bodily changes. The good news is that deep tissue massage can help deal effectively with such issues.

When a pregnant woman undergoes massage sessions regularly, it will help reduce her anxiety and stress level. 

However, she must consult with her doctor or a qualified massage therapist before getting a deep tissue massage.

Below are some tips that would help you massage your pregnant wife and enjoy all the benefits associated with it.

They’re as follows;

• Ensure your wife lies on her side. Use a pillow to support her. This happens to be the most comfortable and safest position for massage.
• Massage the neck and shoulder of your wife to relieve aches and stress-related tension.
• As your pregnant wife lies on her side, rub your palm along either side of her spine.
• Use a lovely scalp massage to relax your wife.
• Use your hands to gently rub your pregnant wife’s feet to help relieve swelling and pain. During the late stages of pregnancy, women tend to develop sore and swollen legs.

Safety Precautions To Take When Massaging A Pregnant Woman

Below are safety tips to observe when massaging a pregnant woman:

• Pay attention to when a pregnant woman complains of discomfort, dizziness, or contractions. And then stop the massage session.
• If she suffers from a medical condition, ensure you consult a doctor if a massage is okay.
• Avoid massaging your wife’s belly directly.
• Avoid the use of essential oils during your massage session.
• Don’t massage a pregnant woman during her first trimester.

Who Should Avoid Deep Tissue Massage During Pregnancy?

There is still ongoing research on the safety of deep tissue massage and other related techniques for pregnant women. 

Always make sure to consult your doctor about the risks. Besides, there are some pregnancies in which massage treatment should be avoided.

Hence you may be advised by your doctor not to get a massage. Below are some conditions that may prevent you from getting a massage:

• Problems with your placenta, such as placenta previa 
• Preeclampsia
• Risk of preterm labor
• High blood pressure
• Gestational diabetes
• Blood clots or a clotting disorder

Frequently Asked Questions

How many weeks pregnant can you get a massage?

You can start getting massage treatment at any time of your pregnancy, preferably in the first, second, or third trimester. Many massage therapy facilities hardly offer deep tissue massage to a woman in the first trimester due to the high risk of miscarriage during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Is it safe to have a massage while pregnant?

Yes, it’s safe to receive a message when pregnant. Additionally, The American Pregnancy Association states that a woman can start getting massage treatment during her pregnancy. But, some prenatal massage experts reject pregnant women until they reach the second trimester of pregnancy.

Can you lay on your stomach for a massage while pregnant?

Yes, you can lay on your stomach as long as you are comfortable in that position during a massage. Besides, this position will not hurt your baby.

What type of massage is suitable for pregnant women?

Deep-tissue massage, Swedish massage, and Shiatsu massage are proven effective for pregnant women.

How often can a pregnant woman get a massage?

With prenatal massage, your doctor visits should coincide with your appointments. That means once a month for up to 27 weeks and twice a month for 36 weeks. Afterward, it is a good idea to go for weekly appointments until the day of delivery.

Also Read: The 5 Basic Massage Movements (Explained)

Final Words

Finally, deep tissue massage is one of the best massages for pregnant women. However, it comes with its benefits and limitations. Hence it’s best you always consult your doctor before receiving a deep tissue massage while pregnant.

Disclaimer:The information contained in this article is a result of in-depth research on the subject matter. This article is only for informational and educational purposes, and it’s not intended as medical or health advice. Hence, I suggest you always ensure to seek the opinion of your doctor or other qualified health personnel regarding any questions that relate to health objectives or medical conditions.

Sources

Prenatal Massage Therapy

Can you get a deep tissue massage when you’re pregnant?