Below are some of the Pregnancy/Prenatal massage questions that we heard throughout the past several years. If you have any other questions regarding massage in Chicago, please do not hesitate to contact us at any time. We will be glad to answer any questions regarding any of our services.
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I heard you shouldn’t have your feet massaged when you are pregnant. Is that true? |
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Not true. Now more than ever your feet need relief from joint pressure and swelling. But there are acupressure points around the ankles and feet that, when actively and aggressively worked, can bring on contractions. This is handy during labor, but those specific places and techniques are carefully avoided until then. This is one of the many reasons to see a knowledgeable, pregnancy-certified therapist |
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Do you use essential oils during pregnancy massage? |
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In most cases, no – even though some oils are generally recognized as safe to use during pregnancy, we err on the side of caution and choose not to use any. The chemical load from everyday life is such that we don’t think it is worth adding more. When approaching labor, we may use some labor supportive essential oils, and also very small quantities may be used for particular conditions during pregnancy. In general, we suggest it is best to avoid the use of essential oils on the skin during pregnancy |
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Is prenatal massage beneficial for the baby? |
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Absolutely! Studies have shown that, when you receive a relaxing prenatal massage, the body naturally secretes endorphins. These “feel good” hormones traverse the placenta and ultimately soothe and relax your baby |
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Do I have to stop getting massages close to my due date? |
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You may be relieved to know that in most cases, it is safe (and beneficial) to receive massage up to your due date. Many women schedule a session on their due date so they have something to look forward to if they have not yet gone into labor. A massage is a great way to prepare your body for the experience of giving birth. Women on bed rest should receive modified massage, (very light pressure on extremities and no abdominal massage), and you should always consult your doctor if you have special circumstances |
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How often should I receive massage when I am pregnant? |
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Each woman and each pregnancy are different, so there is no standard answer to this question. If you are planning to use massage therapy as an integral part of your prenatal care we suggest once a month in the first trimester, twice a month in the second and third. If you are having a difficult pregnancy with back pain, sharp leg and hip pains or sleeplessness we recommend increasing your session to 90 minutes or coming once a week in the last trimester |
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I’ve heard lying face down can strain the uterine ligaments and add to back pain, yet you say you offer massage face down. Why? |
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Our special cushioning system allows you to lie face down, halfway between flat on the table and on all fours. As your pregnancy continues, it may be almost on all fours. This position is safe – on hands and knees is often recommended as a backstretch to ease back pain, and can even help with positioning the baby. You are supported on the bony structures of your body – the sternum down the middle of your chest and your hip bones, no weight it is put on the belly. Lying flat on a table with your belly over a hole in the massage table CAN add strain to uterine ligaments and to your back. Lying over a hole in a massage table can be uncomfortable when you are not pregnant; the added weight of the baby and it can be very uncomfortable. We do not use this type of massage table |
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