Massage during pregnancy is important to maintain the physiological and emotional health of the expectant mother. A pleasant mechanical effect on various areas activates the metabolism. During the procedure, endophrins are released - hormones of happiness and natural analgesics.

The expected effect is possible with proper massage technique and knowledge of the peculiarities of the processes occurring in the body of a pregnant woman.

Is it possible to have a massage during pregnancy?

Massage is beneficial not only for the expectant mother, but also for the fetus. Complex impact on various zones:

• improves blood circulation, prevents the development of oxygen starvation of the unborn baby;
• eliminates pain;
• removes;
• increases overall vitality.

The doctor must decide on the need for the procedure, taking into account the actual condition of the woman and the duration of pregnancy.

To facilitate the body’s adaptation to new conditions, you can perform self-massage: lightly stroking the abdomen, feet, hands, chest, and temporal area.

Starting from the 4th month of pregnancy, gynecologists advise taking a course of one of the acceptable types of massage or a combined procedure.

General massage: what you need to know so as not to harm

General massage is also called basic or classic. It must be carried out by a specialist. This is a universal type of mechanical action that solves a wide range of problems:

• prevention and treatment of diseases caused by a weakened immune system of pregnant women;
• strengthening muscles and musculoskeletal system;
• relieving emotional stress, strengthening the nervous system.

information The difference between basic massage and other techniques is the intensity and duration of the effect. Traditional techniques - rubbing, kneading and stroking - cover several zones.

They follow classic massage lines, following several rules:

• Pressing and deep touches and harsh muscle work are prohibited;
• You can’t massage your stomach;
• with great care you should massage the area of ​​the lower back, sacrum, and wrists: impacts on these areas can provoke contraction of the muscles of the uterus.

important In the 1st trimester, general massage is prohibited.

In the 2nd trimester, the procedure is carried out once a week, the duration of the session varies from 10 to 25 minutes.

Starting from the 3rd trimester, massage can be done daily, the time is increased to 40 minutes.

Head massage

Massaging the head during pregnancy is aimed at stimulating blood circulation and has two goals:

• strengthen the hair follicle, prevent or stop thinning and hair loss - processes caused by general hormonal changes.
• eliminate headaches.

You can use a brush made of natural material. Massage the head in a circular motion from the temples to the crown, then to the forehead and back of the head.

Severe headaches can be relieved by acupressure, but it should be done without strong pressure. Use your fingertips to gently massage your temples and the area between your eyebrows. Massage is allowed starting from the 1st trimester and can be done independently. The procedure is safe for the fetus.

important Head massage is contraindicated for high blood pressure, skin diseases, trauma to the skull and soft tissues. The use of a laser comb is prohibited.

Facial massage

Changes in the body affect the appearance of a pregnant woman and often cause negative emotions. Facial massage is a cosmetic procedure. It is very important for improving the mood of the expectant mother.

From the course you can expect:

• increasing skin elasticity;
• normalization of the sebaceous glands;
• eliminating swelling;
• return of healthy skin color.

This species is completely safe for the fetus. Sessions can be carried out daily from the first weeks of pregnancy, strictly along massage lines.

information It is only important to remember about the increased sensitivity of the skin during the gestational period.

Neck massage

Muscular-tonic spasm in the cervical region, which often occurs during pregnancy, disrupts blood circulation and is considered one of the main causes of headaches and back pain. A massage of the collar area will help to cope with the problem.

It should be performed by a professional massage therapist. The session lasts from 3 to 10 minutes.

information It begins with lightly rubbing the muscles of the cervical and occipital region to warm up. The area is massaged from top to bottom, taking special care when affecting the anterior section and the area of ​​the carotid arteries.

important It is forbidden to press on pulsating vessels. Anti-cellulite massage is contraindicated at any stage of pregnancy. Light stroking will not help, but intense impact on problem areas will increase blood flow and increase muscle tone.

During the massage, the expectant mother should not hold her breath. It is important to monitor your well-being. Dizziness and nausea are a signal to immediately stop the session.

Back massage

Aching pain is caused by increased stress on the spine and the active production of a special hormone - relaxin. It increases the mobility of the hip joints and ligaments of the spinal column, as if “spreading” them apart. This is how the body prepares for the upcoming birth.

The massage is aimed at relieving pain. With certain skills, it can be done at home. Deep muscle work and any impact on the spinal column are prohibited. To achieve the desired effect, stroking movements and gentle rubbing in the direction from the lower back to the shoulder blades are sufficient.

A special place is occupied by lumbar massage. During pregnancy, it is better to entrust this type of manipulation to a doctor.

important The procedure is prohibited in the early stages.

From the 2nd trimester, the muscles of the lumbar zone can be massaged daily. Light pressure and rubbing are allowed. The session should not last more than 3 minutes.

Foot massage

Foot massage is effective for swelling, fatigue, pain, and spasms of the calf muscles. This is one of the types that require increased responsibility: with an unprofessional approach, the procedure can provoke spontaneous abortion.

In the 1st trimester, only light stroking is indicated.

From the 2nd trimester you can conduct a full daily session. Its duration is 15–20 minutes. The massage begins with the foot, rubbing the entire surface with gentle movements, without focusing on individual points. Then they move on to stroking, lightly rubbing and patting the legs and thighs in the direction of the lymph flow (from bottom to top).

important Do not massage the inner surfaces of the thigh and lower third of the leg. This zone contains a high concentration of biologically active points, some of which can provoke uterine contractions.

Foot massage is strictly prohibited if you have varicose veins and a large number of spider veins! The enlarged uterus compresses the veins, weakening the outflow of blood. The procedure may make the problem worse.

Breast massage

Doctors advise performing this type of massage for one purpose: to prepare the breasts for feeding the baby.

Sessions can begin no earlier than 35 weeks of pregnancy, provided that the woman is healthy and there is no threat of premature birth.

important Active rubbing and pressing movements are prohibited. Stroking clockwise and counterclockwise, as well as from the base of the breast to the nipple, without affecting the latter, are useful. Mechanical action on the nipples activates uterine contractions.

Nipples are massaged under the supervision of a doctor strictly for medical reasons: to eliminate physiological characteristics that may interfere with breastfeeding of the baby (for example, inverted nipple).

Abdominal massage

The abdomen throughout gestation is the most vulnerable area. No matter how great the desire of the expectant mother to have a massage session to prevent stretch marks, the idea should be abandoned due to the high risk of miscarriage.

information From the first weeks of pregnancy, only gentle stroking of the belly in a clockwise direction is beneficial. Psychologists advise speaking kindly to the future baby.

Perineal massage

Doctors have been arguing about the benefits and harms of perineal massage for many years. There is no consensus.

It is believed that this type of exposure can only be carried out in late stages of pregnancy in preparation for labor.

Supporters note positive aspects:

• massage helps prevent perineal tears;
• increases muscle elasticity;
• relieves fear and pain immediately before childbirth.

Opponents raise equally reasonable objections:

• mechanical impact can cause myometrial spasm and associated premature birth;
• vaginal massage is fraught with infection;
• the unpleasant procedure does not help improve the emotional state of the expectant mother.

information The massage technique involves stretching the vagina, previously lubricated with vegetable oil, to the sides and down. Consultation with a doctor is strictly required!

Massage against stretch marks

Stretch marks during pregnancy usually occur on the breasts, buttocks and abdomen due to microdamage caused by thinning of the skin.

It is better to deal with the defect after the birth of the child. A rush of blood to problem areas during a massage can eliminate the problem, but also cause irreparable harm. The high-risk area is the 3rd trimester of pregnancy.

You can massage your buttocks and outer thighs with light circular movements.

Massage against stretch marks can be successfully replaced by walking, breathing exercises, swimming (with an instructor, after consultation with a doctor).

Anti-cellulite massage

Changes in hormonal levels and metabolic disorders during pregnancy are the main causes of cellulite. For many women, the problem disappears on its own after childbirth.

important Anti-cellulite massage is contraindicated at any stage of pregnancy. Massage in early pregnancy. Light stroking will not help, but intense impact on problem areas will increase blood flow and increase muscle tone.

It is better to replace an unsafe procedure with special gymnastics for pregnant women.

Vacuum massage

It is one of the types of anti-cellulite massage. Stimulating blood circulation and lymph movement with silicone or rubber caps can lead to the opposite result: the appearance of stretch marks, spider veins, and varicose veins.

information The risk of bleeding and pathological termination of pregnancy is very high. Prohibited for any period of time.

Cupping massage

It is considered a medicinal species. Prescribed for bronchitis, pneumonia, colds. Among the wide range of contraindications, pregnancy comes first.

The procedure may provoke:

• internal bleeding with pathology of fetal development;
• fragility of blood vessels and the appearance of “stars”;

Massage in early pregnancy

Doctors do not recommend massage in the 1st trimester. Hormonal imbalance characteristic of this period is the main cause of spontaneous abortion. Any mechanical impact can become an impetus for the development of pathology.

In the early stages you can:

• self-massage (light stroking of the abdomen, outer thighs, arms, buttocks);
• head massage to relieve pain symptoms (gentle effect on the temporal and frontal region);
• cosmetic facial massage.

information During toxicosis, you should avoid using aromatic massage oils.

Rules for massage for pregnant women

Massage during pregnancy differs from traditional massage and requires compliance with a number of rules:

• the expectant mother should take a comfortable position (usually on her side or sitting), if necessary, place a pillow under her legs and stomach;
• the session time should not exceed 40 minutes;
• You cannot use special devices; all mechanical effects must be carried out by hand;
• the use of aromatic oils is useful (in the absence of allergies and irritating factors); safe for pregnant women are: lemon, cedar, rosewood, sandalwood, neroli, tea tree oils. The tone of the uterus is increased by: sage, lavender, and wormwood oils.

information When prescribing a massage, it is necessary to take into account the psycho-emotional state of the expectant mother. If for any reason a woman does not want to visit a massage room, there is no need to insist: the procedure will not bring the desired benefit.

Contraindications to massage during pregnancy

The reason for refusing massage should be any pathological course of pregnancy:

• toxicosis;
• threat of interruption at any time;
• gestosis;
• severe swelling;
• severe hypotension;
• malposition;
• chronic hypoxia of the unborn child.

The procedure cannot be carried out during periods of colds and exacerbation of chronic diseases.

The impact on “abortion zones” that stimulate uterine contraction is especially dangerous:

• the sacrum and the coccyx connected to it;
• heels and calcaneal tendon (“Achilles”);
• base of the thumbs.

The decision on the advisability of any type of massage is made by the doctor.

It has a beneficial effect on all body systems, relaxing and putting in order not only the body’s vital activity system, but also the psychological side of the person himself. It is quite difficult to overestimate the beneficial effect of massage on the psychosomatic nature of a pregnant woman.
It helps maintain a comfortable state of both the expectant mother and the fetus, compensate for possible disorders and prepare the woman’s body for the most important physiological moment of her life - childbirth. The pregnancy period is accompanied by a number of serious changes in the functioning of various organ systems and tissues, starting with psychophysiological changes that occur literally from the first weeks, and ending with the birth of a new organism. All these processes are a test of endurance and form the conditions under which conditionally compensated pathological conditions associated with diseases of the musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular system, psychoneurological sphere and disturbances in the functioning of internal organs can occur. In each case, a preliminary consultation with a doctor monitoring the course of pregnancy is necessary.

It is performed on a special table with holes for the chest and abdomen;
- sessions are conducted by professional massage therapists with specialized education;
- attending sessions is possible during normal pregnancy after 12 weeks.

Classic massage for pregnant women

Massage improves the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and skin, cleanses, frees them from toxins, restores blood supply to subcutaneous fat, removes swelling, relieves stress and muscle blocks, increases physical and psychological tone, relaxes, and prevents the occurrence of osteochondrosis. This massage works like an additional heart, mechanically pumping blood and lymph through many vessels and capillaries, as a result of which blood circulation is restored in previously stagnant areas, which means the nutrition and respiration of cells and tissues improves.
Massage “awakens” the body and mobilizes its defenses. The massage is done using natural oils. Pregnant women can have a massage after the third month of pregnancy if the pregnancy progresses well, without pathologies. In this case, a side lying position and a soft, relaxing mode are often used.

Hemolymphatic drainage for pregnant women

Hemolymphatic drainage has an excellent effect on every system of the body, successfully solving many problems. As a result of hemolymphatic drainage, blood circulation improves, metabolism is normalized, excess water and metabolic products are removed from the body, the layer of subcutaneous fat is reduced, swelling is reduced, and the structure of the skin improves. It is especially relevant during pregnancy. The undoubted help of this technique in solving problems associated with an increased load on the circulatory system, especially the peripheral one, since varicose veins during pregnancy and the presence of lymphostasis are integral companions of every second pregnant woman. Pulsating, wave-like, slow movements perfectly imitate both the pulsation of blood vessels and muscle contractions. A wide variety of techniques does not allow you to get used to tactile stimulation, as a result of which each massage is unique and effective. Lightness, a pleasant feeling of peace and bliss are achieved as a result of this massage. Regular massage is recommended starting from the fourth month of pregnancy.

Thai oil massage

Thai oil massage is an extraordinary mixture of acupressure, muscle kneading, characteristic of Thai techniques, as well as the gentle and smooth touches of a massage therapist. This massage technique involves working with the patient’s body not only with fingers and hands, but also with elbows and forearms. The main method is pressure of varying strength and intensity, as well as rubbing and stroking. During the Thai oil massage procedure, the master works quite gently, but also quite deeply, with all the muscles of the body, improving lymphatic drainage and blood circulation. The massage therapist also influences reflex zones, which helps restore energy flows in the body. The Thai oil massage technique does not use painful or forceful techniques; it has a very gentle effect. It is done both on a massage table and on the floor using natural oils.

Thai traditional for pregnant women

The history of Thai massage began more than 2500 years ago and dates back to the spread of Buddhism. Thai traditional is a unique practice, as it considers the human body as an integral system. When the flow of prana along the meridians is disrupted due to mental or physical obstructions, it leads to mental, physical and spiritual imbalances, which can manifest in the form of illness, discomfort, and emotional problems. Massage of these energy lines - meridians ensures the free flow of prana. The meridians are toned throughout the massage by applying pressure with the fingers and palms.
A distinctive feature of Thai massage as a treatment method is gentle stretching of the entire body and opening of energy channels. Massage during pregnancy the entire body from the tips of the toes to the top of the head. The techniques used are pressing, stretching and twisting, reflexology, working with energy channels and the circulatory system, working with joints and muscles, reminiscent of yoga exercises. Pregnant women can have a general Thai massage of the whole body after the third month of pregnancy if the pregnancy progresses well, without pathologies. In this case, a position lying on one's side is used, excluding the bloodstops (wind gates) and the impact on the reflex zones associated with the reproductive organs.

Thai foot massage for pregnant women

Foot massage has been used since ancient times by Eastern peoples as a means of relaxation, treatment of many diseases and maintenance of health in general. There are reflexogenic zones on the feet that are directly connected to all internal organs. This is a real map that shows all the parts of the body. Massage for pregnant women helps cope with swelling and heaviness in the legs. The active influence of manual techniques leads to deep drainage of excess fluid and improvement of blood circulation in the legs and feet. After the first massage, swelling of the feet, ankles, calf muscles and knees sharply decreases. In addition, as a result of influencing reflex zones and points, possible dysfunction of glands and internal organs that contribute to excess weight can be reduced, improving overall health and overall appearance.
Reflexive foot massage has a powerful effect on the human body. Therefore, contraindications and restrictions for this procedure should be taken into account. Foot massage is not recommended during the first three months of pregnancy. It can be done during a normal pregnancy, without pathologies. In this case, the master acts on the reflex zones not with a wand, but with his hands, gently, not forcefully, and does not affect the zones and points corresponding to the reproductive organs. A foot massage, performed by a specialist in accordance with the restrictions for pregnant women, relieves fatigue and swelling of the legs, improves overall well-being and promotes all the improvements in the body described above.

Japanese facial massage Ko Bi Do for pregnant women

Instructions

If your gynecologist has allowed you to see a massage therapist, choose the appropriate specialist very carefully. He must have the necessary experience, work in a good salon, or have recommendations.

During pregnancy, there are several features that should be taken into account when performing a massage. First of all, it is worth resorting to this procedure after the first trimester, since there are a number of “abortion” points on the body, which, if improperly applied, can provoke termination of pregnancy. These points are located on the heels, sacrum and in the area of ​​the Achilles tendon.

Choosing a good massage therapist

You should not contact a specialist for a hard active massage during pregnancy. Stroking movements, the use of heated herbal bags, no pressure or pressure - these are the main recommendations for massage. In general, while carrying a child, it makes sense to resort to a soothing and relaxing massage, which has a beneficial effect on the overall emotional state. A massage session should not last longer than 45 minutes.

The massage therapist's movements should be smooth and gentle. The specialist’s hands must be relaxed and soft. The body tissues are not kneaded, but smoothed out. Please note that the belly should not be massaged under any circumstances during pregnancy. If you feel the need, stroke him yourself with soft, soothing movements.

If you have such an opportunity, choose female massage therapists; they usually massage expectant mothers more carefully and softly than men can in principle. A good massage helps relieve pain and tension in the hips and back, and helps relax the muscles of the feet and legs. This procedure helps get rid of fatigue and stress, relieves swelling, significantly improves blood circulation, which allows you to enrich the fetus with nutrients and oxygen.

Tip 3: How to stretch your back during pregnancy on your own

Sometimes the joy of bearing a new life within oneself is overshadowed by all kinds of anxieties and painful sensations. And sometimes, when a seemingly simple solution to a problem is on the surface, doubts arise about the correctness and safety of your actions.

Why does back pain occur?

A woman, being in an interesting position, especially when the pregnancy is long-awaited and desired, is simply inspired with joy. She is all impatient to meet her baby. But sometimes all sorts of troubles so annoyingly interfere with enjoying your happiness. These include various physical ailments, such as pain in the back, lower back, and spine.

In the process of bearing a fetus, the gait changes, the center of gravity gradually shifts, the woman’s weight increases, and sometimes very significantly. As a result, various types of painful sensations may occur. For example, it is not uncommon for a pregnant woman to suffer from pain in her legs or aching bones: in the shoulders, pelvis. All this is connected with the special mobilization position of the body. All his activities are aimed at only one thing - to provide the fetus with everything necessary and prepare himself for childbirth.

If a woman had back problems before pregnancy, then most likely they will make themselves felt with a vengeance. The only point is not to confuse back pain associated with the muscles or spine with the pain that signals the threat of miscarriage. You also need to remember that any medication or manual intervention in the treatment of back pain is possible only under the supervision of an obstetrician-gynecologist who is monitoring the pregnancy.

However, why not help yourself if back pain occurs periodically and is not threatening. How, then, can you give yourself a soothing massage if no one is around?

Self massage

It is best to sit comfortably on a sofa or a comfortable chair, or even better to lie on your side, since a sitting position still places a large load on the spine. With both hands you need to knead your lower back. Movements should be smooth, soothing, and in no case abrupt. In this case, the whole body should be as relaxed as possible, only the hands work.

If a pregnant woman still works, in a sitting position, or often drives, back problems may arise, even if they did not exist before. You need to try to get up and walk more often, forcing another muscle group to work. And if this is not possible, stretch your back with your hands as described above.

And yet you need to understand that any independent actions during pregnancy are extremely undesirable. It's better to be safe than sorry. A specialist in the field of pregnancy is an obstetrician-gynecologist; he is the one who knows the various nuances of the body’s functioning during pregnancy and the relationship of one process with another. Consult, be sure to tell about what worries you, get examined if necessary. And only then you can do self-massage.