Prenatal Massage Precautions
Author: Vivian Chak, Registered Physiotherapist
During prenatal massage, there are specific safety considerations and contraindications, including the massage of certain acupoints, which if pressed incorrectly, may induce uterine contractions. Below are some things to avoid during prenatal massage:
1. Specific Acupoints: Traditional Chinese Medicine and some massage traditions suggest avoiding stimulation of several acupoints during pregnancy, as they may be related to uterine activity or could induce contractions. These acupoints include:
- Zusanli (Stomach 36) (located about four finger-widths below the kneecap)
- Sanyinjiao (Spleen 6) (located on the inner calf, about four finger-widths directly above the highest point of the ankle bone)
- Dadun (Liver 1) (located between the big toe and the second toe, near the toe web)
- Neiguan (Pericardium 6) (located on the inner wrist, about three finger-widths above the wrist crease)
- Certain areas of the abdomen and lower back should also be avoided for direct massage.
2. Supine position: As pregnancy progresses, avoid lying completely flat on your back, especially after the first trimester, to prevent the uterus from compressing the inferior vena cava, which can affect blood circulation.
3. Strong pressure: Avoid excessively strong massage, especially on the abdomen, to prevent pressure on the fetus.
4. High-risk pregnancies: For pregnant women with a risk of preterm birth, gestational hypertension, placenta previa, or other medical issues, massage may be contraindicated. In these cases, a doctor must be consulted first.
5. Essential oil use: Some essential oils may be unsafe during pregnancy, so careful selection is advised when performing aromatherapy massage.
6. Excessive heat: Avoid excessive heat, such as hot stone massage or saunas, as high temperatures can be detrimental to both mother and fetus.
7. First trimester massage: During the first three months of pregnancy, due to a higher risk of miscarriage, some massages may need to be limited or completely avoided.
8. Illness or discomfort: If the pregnant woman has any symptoms of illness, such as vomiting, headaches, fever, etc., massage should be avoided.
ALOHA PREGNANCY CARE ensures that every therapist has professional training and experience in prenatal massage, fully considering the comfort and safety of pregnant women.
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