Is Massage In the First Trimester Safe?
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When a person first discovers they are pregnant, they are understandably cautious about doing anything that would put their pregnancy at risk.
Most miscarriages occur in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy (the first trimester) so it is often encouraged by some educators that those who are pregnant refrain from doing anything that could increase the risk of miscarriage.
To some, this includes prenatal massage, however there is no evidence to suggest that massage in the first trimester increases the risk of miscarriage. In fact, prenatal massage has many wonderful health benefits for all stages of pregnancy!
How safe is prenatal massage in the first trimester?
Massage in pregnancy has been shown to be both safe and beneficial for pregnant people in early pregnancy and beyond.
As previously mentioned, there is no evidence to date to show that massage can increase the risk of miscarriage. However, there is still a lot of misinformation around this subject and unfortunately many still believe that massage in the early stages of pregnancy should be avoided.
The truth is that miscarriage can happen for a number of reasons and it isn’t easy to determine why it occurs in each circumstance. Yet, one peer reviewed paper published in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork cites that most miscarriages can be attributed to failures in early placental development and genetic abnormalities.
What’s more, it also explains that many of the theories of why massage in the first trimester might be harmful are unsubstantiated and can be easily refuted. These include theories such as that massage can impact the fetus or placenta or that it can initiate contractions.
These are all erroneous theories which have no scientific basis.
If you would like to read more about the safety of massage in the first trimester, we highly recommend you read this article: Applying Scientific Rationale to the Current Perceptions and Explanations of Massage and Miscarriage in the First Trimester
What to be aware of before getting a massage
So right now you may be thinking “ok massage is safe in early pregnancy but is there anything I should be aware of?” There are only two factors to consider when getting a massage in your first trimester.
That your massage therapist is specifically trained in prenatal massage.
That there are no contraindications for you to have a massage.
It is very important when receiving a massage while you are pregnant that you are seen by someone who has had specific training in prenatal or pregnancy massage.
This is because they will know how to massage you effectively and safely. Even if your body isn’t feeling the full effects of pregnancy just yet, it is still important that you see a massage therapist who is properly trained to massage a pregnant person.
What’s more, it is quite common for massage therapists who aren’t trained in prenatal massage to refuse massage to pregnant people in their first trimester. Again, this means that they simply don’t have the proper training or experience to offer a prenatal massage.
Of course, it is also important that you have no specific contraindications such as placenta previa, preterm spotting/bleeding and/or high blood pressure and are in good physical health. If you are unsure about this, it is worth speaking to your healthcare provider first before booking a massage.
At the Prenatal Massage & Movement Center in New York City, our highly trained professional massage therapists are experienced in performing first trimester massage. Click below to book an appointment with us!
The benefits of prenatal massage in the first trimester & beyond
So now we have established that massage in early pregnancy is completely safe. It is time to explore its various health benefits.
The benefits of prenatal massage include:
Reduces stress hormones and promotes relaxation
Causes your body to release endorphins (‘feel good’ hormones)
Improves circulation
Aids lymphatic flow
Promotes general well being
Improves mental health
Relieves hip pain & sciatic pain
Improves sleep patterns & quality of sleep
Far from being a risk, instead, prenatal massage in the first trimester has many positive health benefits and these benefits can be experienced at all stages!!
It is our belief, that first trimester massage carries no risks and plenty of benefits. There is much misinformation around massage in early pregnancy and the causes of miscarriage but it is important to know the facts!
If you would like to book a massage with one of our massage therapists, click the button below!
FAQS
Can you lie on your stomach for a massage in the first trimester?
It is safe for you to lie on your stomach during a first trimester massage.. However, when your belly grows bigger as you reach the second trimester it is better to utilize a pregnancy massage table that allows for the pregnant person’s belly to be supported with specially designed pregnancy cushions while lying face down.
What is the best type of massage in your first trimester?
Usually, a Swedish massage is the recommended massage during your first trimester. This type of massage aims to loosen the muscles and joints, improves circulation, relieves fatigue, and, in aiding the body, also benefits the mind and spirit.
Do I need to tell my massage therapist that I am pregnant?
Yes, you should tell your massage therapist that you are pregnant if you are not specifically seeing a prenatal massage therapist. Some inexperienced therapists may refuse you if you are in the first trimester. We highly recommend that you see a highly trained prenatal massage therapist.
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