When you’re pregnant, you should get a massage. However, to prevent complications, bear the following in mind.
Receiving a massage while pregnant can be really soothing.
You can get a home massage when pregnant, contrary to common belief. It is medicinal and can aid in relaxation and better sleep. You must, however, keep the following in mind.
1. The massage therapist should be knowledgeable about pregnancy massage techniques. Any maalishwaali aunty will not suffice.
2. Massages should be avoided during the first trimester because they can raise the risk of miscarriage.
3. Use a gentle moisturizer or coconut, olive, safflower, grapeseed, or mustard oil for your massage.
4. Other massage oils can cause allergic reactions in some women. Before getting a massage, it’s a good idea to do a patch test with the oil on your skin.
5. Other essential oils, such as rosemary, oregano, peppermint, thyme, and sage, can cause uterine contractions.
6. Avoid massaging such pressure points on your wrists and ankles, as this may cause the uterus to contract.
7. It’s most comfortable to lie on your side, particularly in the second and third trimesters. Avoid massage tables with a hole cut out for a pregnant woman’s abdomen. Since the abdomen may hang unsupported, the uterine ligaments may be stretched.
8. Stop getting massages if they make you feel light-headed, sick, or if you don’t like them.
9. Assist the massage therapist with pressure during the massage. To relax, ask them to use gentle strokes or as much pressure as you feel comfortable with.
10. Consult the doctor before getting a prenatal massage if you have diabetes, nausea, or high blood pressure.
11. A Swedish massage, which is gentle and aims to ease muscle stress, increase blood circulation, and alleviate joint pains and backaches, is recommended during pregnancy.
12. Instead, you may request a massage from your partner, focusing on your shoulders, back, arms, and legs. Gentle strokes on your belly will be great for bonding as parents with your unborn baby.
13. A few minutes of self-massage and slow, calm breathing before your bath will help you communicate and bond with your infant.
14. Be on the lookout for blood clots and varicose veins.
15. The duration of a pregnancy massage should be about an hour. You may, however, opt to have one for a shorter period of time if that is more convenient for you.
16. If you’re at risk of miscarriage, don’t have a prenatal massage.
17. If you have a skin injury, open wounds, a skin infection, or eczema, don’t get a massage.
Whether you get a prenatal massage from a therapist, your partner, or yourself, it should be calming, soothing, and rejuvenating.