Where Not to Massage a Pregnant Woman: Areas to Avoid
Pregnant Massage can be a highly rewarding and relaxing experience for expectant mothers, helping to ease pregnancy-related discomforts and ease anxiety. Due to pregnancy’s unique physical changes, there are certain areas that should not be massaged during gestation to protect both mother and baby. In this article we’ll look at these prohibited spots so as not to breach safety.
Pregnancy Brings Many Physical and Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy causes physical and hormonal changes to women that can have profound repercussions for her body during gestation, such as physical discomfort and changes to hormone levels. Safe Pregnant Massage therapy takes into account these differences while offering gentle yet supportive support tailored specifically to meet the expectant mother’s needs.
Prenatal massage therapists who are well trained and qualified understand the nuances of pregnancy, so their massages can be tailored accordingly. Avoiding certain areas during the massage may prevent any potential harm or discomfort to mother and baby during gestation.
Areas to Avoid During Pregnant Massage
Abdomen
While pregnant, the abdomen serves as home for a growing baby. Massaging this area may cause unnecessary pressure and discomfort during later stages, so direct pressure should be avoided on this region to protect its safety for both mother and baby.
Lower Back and Sacrum
Pregnancy can put extra strain on both the lower back and sacrum, as body weight shifts shift as you become pregnant. While gentle massage may bring temporary relief for pregnant women’s lower backs and sacrums, any direct pressure applied directly on either should be avoided in order to avoid strain or potential issues with the area.
Ankles and Feet
Pregnancy often causes swelling to occur in both ankles and feet, tempting one to massage these regions extensively. However, certain pressure points in these regions have been linked with inducing labor so to minimize risks related to massage, it would be wiser to refrain from extensive massage in this region.
Hands and Wrists
Swelling and discomfort in the hands and wrists during pregnancy is common, though gentle massage may help. To protect themselves against potentially adverse side effects, it’s essential to avoid placing pressure on certain acupressure points that could have unintended side effects.
Inner Thighs
To maximize effectiveness during Prenatal massage, avoid massaging the inner thighs as there may be pressure points there that are linked to your uterus that could potentially set off contractions.
Safe and Effective Alternatives
Although Pregnant Massage has some areas to avoid, a skilled prenatal Massage Therapist has many safe and effective alternatives that they can address for prenatal massage sessions – including upper back, shoulders, neck, and legs.
Prenatal massage can provide effective relief from muscle tension during gestation. An experienced therapist knows exactly how to adapt techniques according to an expectant mother’s individual needs and demands.
Conclusion
Pregnant Massage offers expectant mothers a great way to relax, reduce stress, and soothe any pregnancy-related discomforts. Certain areas should be avoided during a massage to ensure both mother and baby safety, making sure it remains nurturing yet relaxing at the same time. Finding an experienced prenatal massage therapist who understands pregnancy needs and can deliver safe massage experiences is imperative to an enjoyable pregnancy journey.