Pregnancy massage in second trimester- is it safe?

[ToughCOOKIE78]

Have you ladies had a pregnancy massage done (by a qualified therapist) in the second trimester? I’m 23+3 and starting to have back pain and leg cramps so wondering whether having a massage will help but at the same time but worried it will affect the baby? Thank you!

[Seb9]

I was lucky enough to be a Guinea pig for a group of therapists when I was pregnant last time, they were doing a pregnancy training refresher course and I had a fabulous time. I had about 4 therapist trying out different techniques on me for about 3 hours, I could barely walk when I left because they'd oiled and massaged my feet so much my flip flips kept coming off 😂They pretty much massaged every bit of me and it was fabulous, I'd highly recommend it, but I'd definitely find somewhere that does a specialist pregnancy massage and has a good reputation. My massage was at Bedruthan Steps in Cornwall so if you're anywhere near there I would highly recommend them.

[Evi5]

Hi, ooh I know that feeling. I wish I could have had one but read enough that just put me off. Plus I didn't want to pay for half a massage. Although I've heard it helps. I opted for a bath, hot water bottle and home messages plus lots of yoga stretches to help. Its working for now but let's see. Hopefully someone more experienced with pregnancy massage will answer and remove all our fears. Hope you find something to help. Take care of yourself. Xx

[ToughCOOKIE78 in reply to Evi5]

What did you read Evi? X

[SRA8]

I had them all the way to the end. It really help with back issues and relaxtion/sleep.

[Hidden]

I had pregnancy massages in all 3 of my pregnancies (16 weeks, 22 weeks, 26 weeks, 33 weeks, 35 weeks). They ask how many weeks you are when you book as it is not recommended (and therefore they won't do it) in the first semester. A qualified practitioner will go through a questionnaire with you first to ensure it is safe for your pregnancy circumstances.

It is worth noting that, in order for it to be safe, it is a gentle swedish style massage and there are areas of the body where they are particularly careful not to apply much pressure. This is due to the increased risk of people having blood clots during pregnancy - a firm massage can potentially dislodge any clots, sending them round the body to possibly get stuck in dangerous places eg. Heart. One area they are very careful about is the legs as thats a high risk blood clot area (dvt) so if that's the area you want relief in you would probably be disappointed with the massage and results. I found it helpful for my lower back pain ( which was bad enough that any massage was a relief) and shoulder tension (where they can be firmer). It is a little annoying that, due to the extra training needed to be able to safely perform the massage, they are more expensive but at the same time you get less pressure so they can be less satisfying.

I can recommend reflexology massage which is safe towards the end of the pregnancy (not sure if it is safe earlier as I never had it then, but I imagine so). I had a reflexology foot massage near my due dates for my first and second pregnancies (third time we were in lockdown so it wasnt an option). It was suggested to me the first time as a way to encourage labour as I had passed the due date. It didn't work in that respect but it was so relaxing and de-stressing at a time when everything is just really hard work.

Also, indian head massage for the same results. Brilliant for relaxation and mental wellbeing.

Unfortunately, I know how you feel re wanting a bloody good rub to sort out your aches and pains, but you just can't get that type of massage until after the birth. I'm now 9 weeks post partum and soooooo happy that massage places are now opening again. Forget the pubs, somebody sort out my back!

Disclaimer- I am not a medical professional or qualified masseuse - info re blood clots and massage restrictions is what I have been told by those providing my pregnancy massages over the years

[ToughCOOKIE78 in reply to Hidden]

Wow thank you very much hun this is all very informative. I’m not really interested in pubs reopening as you said lol to be honest I could do with any rub, I feel pretty rotten and I’m just 23+3! Congratulations on being a mummy 🤩❤️Hope you had a good birth experience and enjoying your cutie xx

[Flora631]

I had one at 6 months, it was dreamy 😍 They got me to lie on one side and then on the other side. Enjoy!

[Ladypii]

Ive had one every 2 weeks since 2nd trimester. Even during lockdown as its a physio place so was still open. Im now 37 weeks and just had reflexology yesterday and have another full body massage this Saturday 🙊🙈My back really aches and i just needed them to help me sleep. I cant imagine it would be bad for you to relax and have your muscles massaged softly, as long as you lie in the right position and pregnancy safe oils are used. If anything it will lower your stress levels and help you feel more calm which can only be good for mental health and aid your sleep, which in turn is all good for you and baby! Enjoy! Xx