Is It Safe to Get A Back Massage While Pregnant?

Is it safe to get a back massage while pregnant?  The answer, for the most part, is yes!  I will wait while you do a little pregnant, happy dance.  With the disclaimer that you need to consult your doctor to be sure.  You might be thinking ‘But I have to lay on my pregnant belly!’  There are funky pregnancy tables they use to accommodate your growing physique.  So what is it that you should know before you schedule your appointment? 

Related: When Can I Get A Prenatal Massage?

What You Need to Know for a Safe Back Massage While Pregnant

Is it safe?

You are free to schedule your relaxation session as you will!  There are a couple of things to think about before dialing the number, so hang on.  First, if you are in your first trimester, you might want to wait a few weeks.  The risk of miscarriage is greater in the first trimester than the second and third.  I am not saying that massage can cause a miscarriage, but no one wants to take that risk.  There is a reason many people wait until the second trimester to reveal the good news to everyone.  Second, consult your doctor.  I am not trying to alarm you in any way, but always run anything that you do to your body while pregnant, by your doc.  Especially if you are considered high risk!

Do I need a prenatal massage therapist?

This is totally up to you.  Someone who specializes in massaging a pregnant woman might know a little more about certain spots to massage or what positions might be most comfortable than someone who does not specialize.  They will more than likely have a funky little table with a hole in the middle, meant for your belly (there might even be a couple of the girls too).  

Are there spots that are unsafe to massage?

There are some places on your body you might want to avoid massaging while you are with child.  For example, you want to avoid your legs.  Sounds weird I know, but your legs can be a nice hiding spot for blood clots and massaging them could dislodge one and send it straight to your heart.  I don’t think I need to go any further.  Your belly obviously is off limits (maybe not obviously, but it is either way).  And of course, consult your doctor, especially if you are a high-risk pregnancy.  Better safe than sorry!

Enjoy it!

I would have given my first born (ok probably not) to have a massage while pregnant.  I was working third shift as a nurses aid when pregnant with my son, and my daughter was 5.  We lived on the third floor of an apartment building, and I was the lucky one to do be doing all the food shopping (up 3 flights of stairs).  I don’t think I need to explain the need for a massage.  Once you are given the green light, by all means woman, schedule that 30-60 minute relaxation session.

Consult your doctor

I am no medical professional, just a woman who has had a couple of kids and loved (but can never get) massages.  Your doctor will be able to tell you more about what is and isn’t ok when it comes to a prenatal massage.  He will also know more about your pregnancy than I do (I hope!)  He may not recommend it (but I hope for your sake he does!).

Backaches, tired feet and legs, nothing screams ‘I need a massage’ more than being pregnant (at least in my very ‘professional’ opinion).  As long as you are cleared, I say schedule that appointment!  Your massage therapist will let you know, but you should be drinking lots of water before and after.  Water water and more water!

 

Did you get a massage while pregnant?  Share your experiences with us in the comment section below!