Pregnancy Massage for Trimester 1.

First of all congratulations! We’re truly excited for you, and that you are considering using us to help you through your pregnancy journey.

There’s so much mis information about pregnancy, in particular pregnancy massage. Let’s start with the most common myth.

IS MASSGE SAFE IN THE FIRST TRIMESTER? 

There is absolutely no research that indicates massage being a factor in miscarriage.

Most massage therapists are taught to avoid massage women in their first trimester, and many expectant mothers will avoid this due to the belief that it is dangerous. There are concerns that massage can disrupt baby’s development and could damage the placenta or that women will find massage uncomfortable in some way if they are already experiencing nausea, fatigue or uncertainty in any way (Pregnancy Massage can actually help with all these symptoms).  

Many are apprehensive regarding the beliefs associated with the possible occurrence of miscarriage as the first trimester is known for a higher risk to these concerns. I am here to help put those fears to rest! 

There is absolutely no research that indicates massage being a factor in miscarriage.  

Massage Therapists are aware massage can increase circulation and stimulate metabolic waste into the circulatory system, knowing this information most therapists will work less intensely and encourage clients to drink water to help flush the system.  

Miscarriage is common in the first trimester and occurs whether the mother get massage or not. It has never evidently been associated scientifically or legally as a cause of miscarriage. Most cases of miscarriage are because the embryo is nonviable. 

While miscarriages do occur frequently in the first trimester, it is rarely a reason to avoid receiving massage therapy.  

Touch to the abdominal area will not put the baby in any risk as during the first trimmest the uterus is very low in the pelvis and cannot be palpated (felt) through massage as such techniques are contraindicated in any pregnancy treatment.  

The first trimester is obviously, the begging of a journey to bring your babe into this world, it is a time of great changes which is even more reason to receive nurturing and nourishing treatment to help ease your way though.  

DON’T FORGET ABOUT PREPERATION FOR PREGANCY  

There are a lot of women who do not receive Pregnancy Massage in their first trimester of pregnancy due to the fear of miscarriage. There is absolutely no research that indicates massage being a factor in miscarriage. With that myth busted, lets discuss why you should receive massage early on.  

On average women start getting treatment around 20 weeks. By this stage you are already halfway through your pregnancy. You would already have bump and most likely some back pain along with issues trying to sleep on your side at night.

We prefer to get in early so we can help guide you through the development of you and your baby by preparing you both for the changes that occur during gestation. 

HOW WE HELP SET YOU UP FOR PAIN FREE PREGANCY  

The first trimester is when we want to put roots down for your treatment plan whether you have pre-existing conditions or are wanting to start preparing you and your baby for pregnancy.  

We begin our Pregnancy Massage treatments keeping in mind potential nausea and fatigue along with hormonal changes. We focus on assisting circulation and support the physical changes that are to come. Most women are still comfortable lying face down and we use a breast pillow to help take the pressure of swollen breasts although side lying is also available if preferred.  

We use soft and deep tissue techniques depending on the mothers need and treatment is adjusted each appointment accordingly.  

COMMON QUESTIONS 

Can I get massage? 

Absolutely! The biggest concern for massage in the first trimester is miscarriage. There is absolutely no research that indicates massage being a factor in miscarriage.  

Most cases of miscarriage are because the embryo is nonviable. Remedial Massage Therapists are aware massage can increase circulation and stimulate metabolic waste into the circulatory system, knowing this information most therapists will work less intensely and encourage clients to drink water to help flush the system after a Pregnancy Massage. 

Can I start/continue exercise? 

Again, one of the reasons women avoid this is due to fear of miscarriage or injury, if you are wanting to start a new exercise routine it is always advised to seek help from a qualified trainer.  

How often should I get treatment? 

In general we suggest begging with monthly treatment unless advised otherwise by your therapist. Generally, we then follow more closely as the pregnancy continues.   
We want to get the body in best possible condition for the physical changes that will occur and help support the mental and emotional changes through treatment.