Is it safe to get a massage while I’m pregnant?
There is no better time to “indulge” in a massage than during pregnancy! Not only does massage help relieve the aches and pains of the ongoing body changes experienced but it promotes restful sleep, lowers your blood pressure, eases stress on your joints, relaxes strained muscles, and can help reduce swelling.
Do I need a doctor’s note?
In most cases, no. If you are a high-risk pregnancy, be sure to consult your OB before seeing a massage therapist, though.
I’m in my first trimester and I’ve heard I cannot get massage – is that true?
It is not recommended that women in their first trimester receive massage treatment. Massage therapy promotes circulation and flushes stored toxins (lactic acid and metabolic waste) into the blood stream. While it is highly unusual that your immune system should have any problem handling excretion of these toxins, it’s simply a much safer call to avoid massage during this time to avoid any possible complications.
How will the massage therapist accomodate my tummy?
There are a lot of techniques a massage therapist can use. Most often you will be positioned laying on your side or in a reclining position. In either of these positions, expect to be nestled and supported by a range of pillows and cushions in order to support your body.
In some cases, your therapist might have a table available which will allow you to lay face down. These specially constructed tables have a hole cut in the table with a sling across the opening to support your abdomen. While some women may feel that they have a sensation of laying on the baby, most women experience signficant relief in this position. Be sure to communicate with the therapist while they adjust the sling to make sure it is positioned correctly to provide the correct amount of support. Be advised that laying face down without adequate support can put strain on the ligaments that hold your uterus in place. Communication with your therapist is VITAL when using this option.
**Please Note: Sanctuary Massage offers the option for our clients to lay face down using one of the specialty tables described. We also accomodate the side lying position for those women who prefer not to lay face down.
Is it safe to ask my therapist to use heat during our session?
Heat is one of the best relaxation tools a massage therapist can use. As long as you do not experience any skin reactions or discomfort with the use of heat it is often a preferred tool for assisting the therapist in achieving the relaxation you’re looking for. Please note, however that at NO time should any heat be applied directly to your abdomen.
