Let’s be real—pregnancy is not exactly a walk in the park. From the overwhelming morning sickness and bizarre cravings in the first trimester to the aches and pains that come with the third, carrying a little one can feel like running a marathon! So, it’s no surprise that expectant moms are on the lookout for anything that might bring them some relief. A couple of common questions we hear are, “Is it safe to get a massage?” and “Can acupuncture help during pregnancy?”
Let’s Talk Massage…
When I was 38 weeks along, my feet ached, my back was in constant pain, and honestly, it felt like even my hair hurt! All I craved was a good massage. As someone who digs into pregnancy info, I decided to look into the safety of massages during this time. The good news? Research shows that massage can indeed benefit pregnant women. It helps alleviate aches, reduces stress, eases depressive symptoms, and enhances overall well-being. Sounds amazing, right?
But hold on before you rush to book that appointment! The safety of massages during the first trimester isn’t well studied, so many therapists and healthcare professionals recommend steering clear of massages in those early months. If you do choose to indulge in some pampering during the first trimester, opt for a massage that avoids heat—like hot towels or stones—especially around your belly or lower back, because overheating can increase the risk of birth defects. If you’re curious about hyperthermia, check out our fact sheet for more details.
When you do get a massage, make sure to find a therapist who specializes in prenatal care. They’ll be aware of sensitive areas and will know what feels good when you’re expecting. It’s best to skip deep tissue massages for now, too, as they haven’t been thoroughly studied. Also, let your therapist know if you’re allergic to any oils they might use.
In the later stages of pregnancy, some therapists might suggest applying pressure to specific points that supposedly help induce labor. However, studies haven’t confirmed this, so it’s wiser to wait until you’re at least 39 weeks along if you’re curious about that.
What About Acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves a trained practitioner inserting tiny needles into particular points on your body. It’s often recommended for pregnant women to deal with nausea and pain. Current studies don’t indicate any increased risk of birth defects linked to acupuncture during pregnancy. The most common downside is a bit of discomfort when the needles are inserted. However, the evidence isn’t strongly in favor of acupuncture being effective for nausea, vomiting, or pain relief during pregnancy.
If you’re thinking of trying acupuncture, be sure to choose a qualified practitioner. It’s also wise to find someone experienced with pregnant women. Make sure they’re not reusing needles from other clients—this can pose a risk for infections. Like massage, there are acupuncture points that are believed to potentially stimulate labor. Again, it’s best to avoid these points until you hit at least 39 weeks.
As with any treatment, chatting with your healthcare provider before diving in is a smart move. And just a reminder, if you have any questions about massage, acupuncture, or other treatments during pregnancy, there are resources available that can help guide you.
In the meantime, if you’re curious about a healthier twist on holiday eggnog, check out this blog post! And for those interested in home insemination, you can find excellent tools at Make a Mom, or explore IVF options at NHS.
Summary:
Pregnancy brings its own set of challenges, but options like massage and acupuncture may provide some relief. While both treatments have potential benefits, it’s essential to consider safety, especially during the first trimester and late in pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider and opt for trained professionals when seeking these therapies.