Though pregnancy is the most beautiful phase a woman goes through, it is not always a bed of roses but is full of aches and pains. Getting rid of pregnancy pains is only possible by getting a prenatal massage. However, there’s a lot of misinformation about prenatal massages, which can make many women skeptical about getting them. So, in this post, we will debunk the biggest myths about a prenatal massage so you can have a relaxed pregnancy period.
Myth: Prenatal Massage During the First Trimester Can Cause Miscarriage
The first 12 weeks of pregnancy are delicate since the mom’s body determines if the fetus is viable and will survive. Since it is a critical time, most people don’t even announce their pregnancy for fear of having a Miscarriage and also avoid getting a prenatal massage during this time. However, there is no solid evidence to support that it can cause a Miscarriage. The reality is that most massage therapists do not have enough training to safely and confidently massage pregnant women during the first trimester. Hence, many massage clinics will turn you away during your first trimester.
Myth: Prenatal Massage Should be Done Only in Side Posture
Though a prenatal massage can be done in the side posture, it does not have to be if the clinic specializes in prenatal massages. A specialized clinic will have special orthopedic pillows and supports that allow you to lie face down when receiving the message safely. The pillows are designed for this purpose and can support the body without restricting blood flow for the mom or the baby.
Myth: Prenatal Massage Can Induce Labor Before Ready
Many women stop their prenatal massage sessions at 30 weeks for fear that they might go into labor too soon. But you can have your massage therapy up to your due date as it will give you maximum benefits. However, it can get more tricky at more than 38 weeks since the therapist can do a labor stimulation massage by using specific acupressure points and techniques. But again, it all comes down to choosing a therapist who knows when to hit these points and avoid them.
Myth: Prenatal Massage and Rotate the Baby
A massage therapist cannot try and rotate a baby that is breached. You do not need to worry about your baby turning the wrong way. Specialists can help you turn our baby, but this should only be done with a doctor’s advice and consent.
Myth: Prenatal Massage can Only Make You Feel Good and Nothing Else
Prenatal massages can feel great and help relieve the pains in the body. But they also offer much more than this, as they can help lower stress, anxiety, depression, blood pressure, and prenatal complications. It can improve mood, reduce swelling, increase oxytocin production, improve quality and length of sleep, and decrease labor time by up to three hours.
The Bottom Line
Therefore, with all the benefits of a prenatal massage, without many risk factors, it can be a powerful tool to help you feel your best throughout pregnancy. However, it is important to remember that there are some high-risk issues that cannot be worked on and require a doctor’s note before proceeding. Choose a massage therapist who is trained and understands what is happening to your body during pregnancy.
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