Most experts suggest that massage in the first trimester should be avoided. This is due to the fact that most miscarriages occur during the first trimester. Many massage therapists will not massage a woman who is in her first trimester because they do not want to be liable if anything were to happen to the mother or her unborn baby. Before having a massage, it is a good idea to consult with your doctor, especially if you do not have regular massages. Many women prefer not to have a massage in early pregnancy because they are suffering from morning sickness.

A woman’s body goes through many changes when she is pregnant. Your feet become swollen, your hormones are unpredictable and you could suffer headaches. You can feel pain in your back, legs and hips. Then, there is also the nausea, unless you are one of the lucky women who do not experience morning sickness. It is thought that prenatal massage is beneficial, but only in the second and third trimester. Definitely consult with your doctor before having a massage. It is not suited for everyone, so you should get permission from your doctor.

Prenatal massage is great for lessening the discomforts of pregnancy and also helping you to relax. A pregnant woman should not lie on her back, especially after the 20th week of pregnancy. Blood flow is reduced to the uterus when you are in this position. You should sit on a chair with the back of the chair facing your front. You can put this against a table and put two or three pillows on the table to allow your head to rest. The area between the ankle bone and the heel should be avoided when massaging. Reflexologists will tell you that this point on your body correlates to the vagina and uterus. Heavy pressure on this area, especially in the third trimester, could induce labour. Avoid the abdomen when massaging. If you have any open sores or a rash on the skin or any sign of infection, make sure these areas are also avoided. A massage should never be painful. If you experience any amount of pain, the massage should stop immediately.

A massage does not need to be a professional massage. “Partner massage” is fantastic for mom and dad. Childbirth experts suggest that when dad massages mom, it relaxes both parents and this leaves dad feeling more connected to the baby. It is a great way to start the bonding session before baby is even born.

The duration of a prenatal massage can be as short as 10 minutes or as long as 60 minutes. Do not exceed 60 minutes though, even though you might not want it to end. In your second trimester, you can have a massage once a week and then increase this to twice a week in the third trimester. Avoid massage in the first trimester.