Pregnancy Massage

When a massage is and isn’t possible during pregnancy

A massage every now and then is always lovely, even when you’re pregnant! Still, it’s better not to simply book a ‘regular massage’ during your pregnancy. Your body is different and responds differently too. A genuine pregnancy massage takes this into account. That’s not only pleasant, it also has many benefits for your pregnant body and helps avoid the risks that a regular massage during pregnancy can carry.

What’s different about a pregnancy massage?

A pregnancy massage is similar to a regular massage, but less firm. The masseur won’t massage the pressure points that are connected to your uterus. This is because doing so could stimulate your uterus, which could cause it to start contracting. And that’s obviously something you want to avoid! A certified pregnancy masseur knows exactly where you can and can’t be massaged during pregnancy. So choose a practice run by such a specialist while you’re pregnant.

Massage table for pregnant women

The massage table can also differ from a regular table. Some massage practices have special tables for pregnant women, with a cut-out for your belly and breasts. If there’s no such table? Then you lie on your side, with your belly and legs supported by cushions so you’re still very comfortable. A chair massage is possible as long as you can still sit comfortably in the chair and the masseur knows which pressure points to avoid. If the chair masseur isn’t a pregnancy massage specialist, it’s best to skip it for now.

If your body reacts differently

Because your body is changing, you may also respond differently to a massage. You might suddenly feel hot or very cold, become nauseous, or find the massage too intense. If so, let the masseur know straight away. The massage can then be adjusted so it’s still a relaxing moment for you! It’s also better to avoid a heat massage, such as a hot stone massage, during pregnancy. This is because of the reaction you may have to the heat, but also because a lot of waste products can be released during such a massage.

Benefits of a pregnancy massage

Besides being relaxing, a pregnancy massage has many benefits, such as:

• Less pain: if you’re struggling with, for example, your back or shoulders, a massage can offer a lot of relief.
• Less fluid retention: especially during the last few months, many pregnant women retain fluid in their legs. A pregnancy massage can help drain that fluid.
• Better blood circulation: the massage helps waste products be removed more effectively and quickly.
• Better resistance: a massage helps you sleep better, stimulates the production of oxytocin, the happiness hormone, and reduces feelings of stress and the production of stress hormones. It also improves your blood circulation. As a result of all this, your immune system is strengthened.

When is it not allowed?

A pregnancy massage really is highly recommended, unless you have certain conditions such as high blood pressure, thrombosis, heart problems, varicose veins or a fever. Not sure whether a massage is a good idea? Then discuss it with your midwife first.

Massage after giving birth

A massage is also highly recommended after giving birth. The birth was already tough on your body, and the first months with a small baby can also feel physically demanding. A massage can then help you relax again for a moment and recover more quickly. And are you breastfeeding? Then you may well be experiencing shoulder and neck tension. It goes without saying that a massage alone can be very welcome for that reason too.

Frequently asked questions about pregnancy massage

What is a pregnancy massage?

A pregnancy massage is a massage specifically tailored to the body of a pregnant woman. The massage is less firm than a regular massage and takes into account the changes that occur during pregnancy.

How do you lie during a pregnancy massage?

During a pregnancy massage you usually lie on a special massage table with cut-outs for your belly and breasts. If that table isn’t available, you often lie on your side, supported by cushions.

What are the benefits of a pregnancy massage?

A pregnancy massage can help you relax better, sleep better and reduce pregnancy-related complaints such as back, pelvic and neck pain. It can also help drain fluid and stimulate blood circulation.

When is a pregnancy massage not recommended?

A pregnancy massage is not recommended if you have high blood pressure, thrombosis, heart problems or varicose veins. If you have a fever, it’s also wise to consult your midwife or doctor first.

Can you also have a pregnancy massage after giving birth?

Yes, this type of massage can also be pleasant after giving birth. It can help you relax and recover more quickly from the birth.

Midwives in Amsterdam-Zuid, for all your questions

As your midwives, you can come to us for a great many things during your pregnancy. A great many, because of course we don’t do the massages ourselves. But we do know where to send you for a lovely pregnancy massage! So feel free to ask us. Or discuss your doubts with us if you’re not sure whether a massage is possible during your pregnancy. We’re here for you and all your questions.