Massage during pregnancy is important for maintaining 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 a competent massage technique and knowledge of the features of the processes occurring in the body of a pregnant woman.
Is it possible to do massage during pregnancy
The massage is useful 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 should decide on the need for the procedure, taking into account the actual condition of the woman and the duration of pregnancy.
To facilitate the adaptation of the body to new conditions, self-massage can be performed: light stroking of the abdomen, feet, hands, chest, temporal region.
Starting from the 4th month of pregnancy, gynecologists advise to take a course of one of the permissible 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 classical. It should 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 provoked by weakening of the immune system of pregnant women;
- strengthening of muscles and musculoskeletal system;
- removal of emotional stress, strengthening of the nervous system.
informationThe difference between basic massage and other techniques lies in the intensity and duration of exposure. Traditional techniques - rubbing, kneading and stroking - involve several zones.
They are carried out along the classic massage lines, observing several rules:
- pressing and deep touching, hard work of muscles are prohibited;
- you can not massage the stomach;
- with great care, you should massage the lumbar region, sacrum, wrists: exposure to these zones can provoke contraction of the muscles of the uterus.
importantGeneral massage is prohibited in the 1st trimester.
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 headache.
You can use a natural brush. Massage the head in a circular motion from the temples to the crown, then to the forehead and back of the head.
Acupressure will relieve a severe headache, but it should be done without strong pressure. Using the fingertips, gently massage the temples and the area between the eyebrows. The massage is allowed starting from the 1st trimester and can be performed independently. The procedure is safe for the fetus.
importantHead massage is contraindicated for high blood pressure, skin diseases, trauma to the skull and soft tissues. The use of a laser comb is prohibited.
Face massage
Changes in the body are reflected in 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;
- elimination of puffiness;
- return of healthy skin color.
This species is completely safe for the fetus. Sessions can be performed daily from the first weeks of pregnancy, strictly along the massage lines.
informationIt is only important to remember about the increased sensitivity of the skin during the gestational period.
Neck massage
Muscle-tonic spasm in the cervical spasm, which often occurs during pregnancy, disrupts blood circulation and is considered one of the main causes of headaches and back pain. Massage of the collar zone will help to cope with the problem.
It should be carried out by a professional masseur. The session lasts from 3 to 10 minutes.
informationIt starts with lightly rubbing the muscles of the cervical and occipital region in order to warm up. The area is massaged from top to bottom, taking special care when affecting the anterior section and the region of the carotid arteries.
importantIt is forbidden to press on the pulsating vessels. Anti-cellulite massage is contraindicated at any stage of pregnancy. Light stroking will not help, but an 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, nausea is a signal for immediate termination of the session.
Back massage
Aching pain is caused by an increased load 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 "pushes" them. 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. It is forbidden to deeply work out the muscles and any effect on the spinal column. To achieve the desired effect, stroking movements and gentle rubbing in the direction from the lower back to the shoulder blades are enough.
A special place is occupied by massage of the lumbar spine. During pregnancy, it is better to entrust this type of manipulation to a doctor.
importantThe 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 edema, fatigue, pain, calf muscle spasms. This is one of the types that require increased responsibility: with a non-professional approach, the procedure can provoke a spontaneous abortion.
In the 1st trimester, only light strokes are shown.
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 lower leg and thighs in the direction of the lymph flow (from bottom to top).
importantDo not massage the inner thighs and lower third of the lower leg. In this zone, there is a high concentration of biologically active points, some of which can provoke uterine contraction.
It is strictly forbidden to massage the legs with varicose veins and the presence of a large number of spider veins! The enlarged uterus compresses the veins, weakening the outflow of blood. The procedure can make the problem worse.
Breast massage
Doctors advise to carry out this type of massage with one purpose: to prepare the breast for feeding the baby.
Sessions can be started no earlier than 35 weeks of pregnancy, provided that the woman is healthy, there is no threat of premature birth.
importantActive rubbing and pressing movements are prohibited. It is useful to stroke clockwise and counterclockwise, as well as from the base of the breast to the nipple, without affecting the latter. Mechanical action on the nipples activates uterine contraction.
The nipples are massaged under the supervision of a doctor strictly for medical reasons: to eliminate physiological features that may interfere with breastfeeding of the baby (for example, nipple retraction).
Abdominal massage
The abdomen throughout the 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 must be abandoned due to the high threat of miscarriage.
informationFrom the first weeks of pregnancy, only gentle clockwise stroking of the abdomen is beneficial. Psychologists advise at the same time to talk affectionately with the unborn baby.
Perineum massage
Disputes of doctors about the benefits and harms of perineal massage have been going on for many years. There is no consensus.
It is believed that this type of exposure is permissible only in late pregnancy to prepare for labor.
Supporters note positive points:
- massage helps prevent perineal tears;
- increases muscle elasticity;
- relieves fear and pain just before childbirth.
Opponents raise equally reasonable objections:
- mechanical impact can cause spasm of the myometrium and associated premature birth;
- vaginal massage is fraught with infection;
- an unpleasant procedure does not help to improve the emotional state of the expectant mother.
informationThe massage technique consists in stretching to the sides and down the vagina, which has been previously lubricated with vegetable oil. A doctor's consultation 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 a defect after the birth of a child. A rush of blood to problem areas during a massage can eliminate the problem, but also cause irreparable harm. In the high-risk area, the third trimester of pregnancy.
You can massage the buttocks and the outer side of the thigh with light circular movements.
Massage against stretch marks can successfully replace walking, breathing exercises, swimming (with an instructor, after consulting a doctor).
Anticellulite massage
Changes in hormonal levels, metabolic disorders during pregnancy are the main causes of cellulite. For many women, the problem disappears on its own after giving birth.
importantAnti-cellulite massage is contraindicated at any stage of pregnancy. Early pregnancy massage. Light stroking will not help, but an intense impact on problem areas will increase blood flow and increase muscle tone.
It is better to replace the unsafe procedure with special exercises for pregnant women.
Vacuum massage
It is one of the types of anti-cellulite massage. Stimulation of blood circulation and lymph movement with silicone or rubber caps can lead to the opposite result: the appearance of stretch marks, spider veins, varicose veins.
informationThe risk of bleeding and abnormal termination of pregnancy is very high. Prohibited for any length of time.
Cupping massage
It is considered a medicinal species. It is prescribed for bronchitis, pneumonia, colds. In a wide range of contraindications, pregnancy is in the first place.
The procedure can provoke:
- internal bleeding with abnormal development of the fetus;
- fragility of blood vessels and the appearance of "stars";
Early pregnancy massage
Doctors do not recommend massage in the 1st trimester. The hormonal disruption characteristic of this period is the main reason for spontaneous abortion. Any mechanical effect can become an impetus for the development of pathology.
In the early stages, you can carry out:
- self-massage (light stroking of the abdomen, outer thighs, arms, buttocks);
- head massage to relieve pain symptoms (gentle effect on the temporal and frontal regions);
- cosmetic facial massage.
informationDuring the period of toxicosis, you should stop using aromatic massage oils.
Massage rules for pregnant women
Massage during pregnancy differs from the traditional one and requires compliance with a number of rules:
- the expectant mother should take a comfortable position (usually on her side or sitting), if necessary, put a pillow under her legs and stomach;
- the session time should not exceed 40 minutes;
- you cannot use special devices, all mechanical influences must be carried out by hand;
- use of aromatic oils is useful (in the absence of allergies and irritating factors); safe for pregnant women are: oil of lemon, cedar, rosewood, sandalwood, neroli, tea tree. The tone of the uterus is increased: sage oil, lavender, wormwood.
informationWhen 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 the massage room, there is no need to insist: the procedure will not bring the desired benefit.
Contraindications to massage during pregnancy
Any pathological course of pregnancy should be the reason for refusing massage:
- toxicosis;
- threat of interruption at any time;
- gestosis;
- severe swelling;
- severe hypotension;
- malposition;
- chronic hypoxia of the unborn child.
You can not carry out the procedure during the period of colds and exacerbation of chronic diseases.
Especially dangerous is the impact on the "abortion zones" that stimulate uterine contraction:
- the sacrum and the tailbone connected to it;
- heels and calcaneal tendon ("Achilles");
- the base of the thumbs.
The doctor decides on the appropriateness of any type of massage.
Pregnancy is not a disease, but still, the health of a pregnant woman sometimes differs from ideal. Almost every woman who has found herself in an "interesting" position at least once is familiar with the heaviness and swelling of the legs and even hands, with pain in the spine (and not only in the lower back), with headaches, weakness and toxicosis. And this is not a complete list of ailments that may affect a pregnant woman. At the same time, most of the drugs sold in the pharmacy chain are prohibited for pregnant women. How to deal with ailments? It turns out that massage can help solve many of these problems. "But can pregnant women get massage?" - you ask. The question is reasonable. Not every massage is suitable for pregnant women. And what is especially important - not every massage therapist.
Can pregnant women get massage?
In most cases, massage is allowed for pregnant women.
You can massage the entire body of a woman, with the exception of the abdomen. The movements of the masseur should always be very light and smooth, power techniques are completely excluded. Stimulating movements (tapping, tapping) are limited, but relaxing techniques (stroking, small vibration) are performed in full. Any type of massage for pregnant women can only be done with the permission of your doctor. The following contraindications are taken into account:
- severe toxicosis
- threatened abortion
- hypertension of the second degree and higher
- any infectious disease (colds, flu, pyelonephritis, conjunctivitis, etc.), fever
- rashes on the skin in the intended area of \u200b\u200bthe massage
- thrombophlebitis against the background of varicose veins, severe swelling
- blood diseases, malignant diseases
- severe unbearable back pain
Professional massage can be done for pregnant women starting from the second trimester. Until that time, it is better to limit yourself to self-massage (lightly stroking the feet, legs, shoulder girdle) or to attract relatives and friends. The first trimester is critical, so it is better to limit any external influences at this time.
Can pregnant women get back massage?
In case of pain and tension in the neck, lower back and thoracic spine, pregnant women can do a back massage. In the early stages, the massaged woman can assume a prone position, but from the 5-6th month it is better to perform the massage while sitting with elbows on the table or in the position on her side (you can use a roller or a rolled-up blanket).
Massage of the collar zone (neck, shoulder girdle) is best done in a sitting position. A light massage helps to relax the neck muscles, relieve headaches, and even out pressure fluctuations. An experienced massage therapist can correct both hypotension and hypertension by massage of the neck area.
Lumbar massage is usually required for late pregnancy. Due to the growth of the abdomen, the inclination of the pelvis changes, this increases the load on the spine, and pain occurs. Massage of the lower back helps to relax tense muscles. It is carried out in a lateral position. The movements are as smooth as possible, because in the lumbar region there are biologically active points of the uterus.
Can pregnant women have foot massage?
Foot massage is one of the best tools for the prevention and treatment of edema in pregnant women. Smooth movements directed from the fingertips to the popliteal, and then to the inguinal fossa, ensure the outflow of lymph, give a good drainage effect. Active points from most organs are projected on the foot. This massage activates the immune system, normalizes digestion and vascular reactions, and gives a boost of vivacity. Carefully massage the legs and thighs with varicose veins, without affecting the protruding veins. Massage of hands and forearms will also be useful.
Pregnancy is an absolutely physiological state for the female body, but for unknown reasons, to this day, many people are wary of any health procedures during this period, in particular, massage. It is no secret that it is during the period of carrying a baby that the load on the back increases significantly. Therefore, most women begin to worry about the most important question: can pregnant women do a back massage? The answer lies on the surface: this procedure has a beneficial effect on the mother and child.
What are the positive effects of back massage during pregnancy?
- Improving blood supply to the back muscles, joints, ligaments.
- Normalization of blood flow in the uteroplacental system (especially if massage is performed in the knee-elbow position).
- Relief of tension in the back.
- Improving the psycho-emotional state of the pregnant woman.
- Eliminate fatigue and stress.
- Reducing the load on the spine.
- Restoration of lymph circulation.
- Normalization of bowel function.
- Decreased tone of the uterus.
- Improving skin elasticity.
- Normalization of sleep and rest.
- Strengthening the immune system.
- Regulation of blood pressure.
- Preparing for childbirth in late pregnancy.
How should you massage?
Before giving a massage, pregnant women need to create a relaxing atmosphere. The procedure should be carried out in a room with a comfortable temperature. It is important to remember that the lighting in the room should be muted, dim. Alternatively, you can play relaxing music. You can also use aromatic oils, but only natural, hypoallergenic, it is advisable to first consult with an aromatherapist.
What massage can be done for pregnant women?
During gestation, it is important to know how to properly massage the back of a pregnant woman:
- It is necessary to start the procedure with gentle stroking of the back, the palms of the masseur must be warm, dry and clean.
- You can use the following massage techniques: kneading, stroking, rubbing.
- The pressure on the back should be light.
- Particular attention should be paid to the lumbar region, since 90% of pregnant women experience back pain in this area. This is due to the increased load in the lower back when the center of gravity changes.
- The procedure should be carried out in the following positions of the pregnant woman:
- lying on its side;
- either sitting on a chair and leaning on a horizontal surface;
- create emphasis on the knees and elbows. It is most preferable to use the knee-elbow position, which normalizes blood circulation in the fetal-placental system, as well as improves kidney function. It is known that with the growth of the uterus, excessive pressure on the ureters and kidneys occurs, as a result of which diseases of the urinary system are exacerbated. For this reason, this position is the most physiological for a pregnant woman during massage.
What types of massage cannot be done?
The most important principle during pregnancy is do no harm. That is why we must remember that the following techniques are prohibited:
- You can not use percussion, as well as vibration techniques. Any sudden movements can lead to hypertonicity of the uterus.
- It is strictly forbidden to use hardware massage techniques ().
- Anti-cellulite massage cannot be performed either.
- Electrical stimulation of the back muscles during pregnancy is also prohibited.
- Do not massage the sacrum area, as this can increase the tone of the uterus. This zone refers to abortions, which means that in the early stages of pregnancy, with pressure in this area, a spontaneous abortion may even occur.
Contraindications
In general, with the normal course of pregnancy, massage can be done at any time. However, there are conditions in which you should refrain from carrying out this procedure:
- Severe toxicosis.
- Gestosis with unstable blood pressure, pronounced edema.
- Temperature rise above 37.5ºC.
- Aggravation of various chronic diseases.
- Placenta previa.
- Bloody discharge with premature placental abruption.
- The threat of premature birth.
- Increased tone of the uterus.
Is it possible to massage pregnant women at home?
It is advisable that the procedure is performed by a competent specialist. However, it is not forbidden to carry out this technique to close and dear people. It is especially good if the massage is performed by the husband of the pregnant woman, due to which a warm bond is formed between the spouses, as well as the manifestation of care for the mother and child. The main thing is to adhere to the necessary rules, to avoid sudden movements, not to massage the forbidden zones (sacrum). All movements should be smooth, soft. A training video is a good helper for massage.
For example:
Do not be afraid or avoid massage during pregnancy. On the contrary, this procedure is very favorable during this period. In addition, in addition to improving physical well-being, the woman also has positive emotions. Thus, performing massage during pregnancy is a simultaneous care of two organisms: mother and child.
Bibliography:
Bibliography:
1. Medical, medical and cosmetic massage - Ingerleib MB, 2010.
2. Point massage as first aid - Vasichkin V.I., 2001.
3. Physiotherapy - G.Sh. Gafiyatullina - Study guide, 2010
4. Physical culture with the basics of a healthy lifestyle - Tsipin LL, 2002.
5. Reflexology guide - Macheret EL, Samosyuk IZ, 1989.
An urgent problem during pregnancy is back pain, which occurs due to the increasing load on the spine and hormonal changes in the body. You can eliminate these symptoms without resorting to medication using massage. But is it possible or not to massage pregnant women? And if so, which one? Is it possible to massage the back or neck area for pregnant women, and is it allowed to massage the abdomen? We will try to answer all these questions in our article.
Only the attending physician can decide whether it is possible for a pregnant woman to massage, based on information about the nature of the pregnancy and the health status of a particular woman. Massage does not have such a contraindication as pregnancy. The restrictions apply only to the first trimester.
Many modern massage parlors with a good reputation in the range of services provided offer this procedure to expectant mothers. However, no matter what positive recommendations a massage therapist has, regardless of his experience and qualifications, it is impossible to start a course of procedures without asking the gynecologist whether it is possible to carry out massage during pregnancy for a particular patient. In order to avoid negative consequences, it should be remembered that each person's body is unique, and pregnancy can proceed in different ways.
Massage for the expectant mother has some limitations in technique. First of all, it is forbidden to carry out it with the help of any devices, electrical appliances, cans. It is allowed to perform the procedure only with your hands. In pregnancy, massage can be done both on individual parts of the body (collar zone, feet, hands), and complex. In this case, the abdomen is not massaged. Self-massage is also allowed for the expectant mother.
How is massage useful?
Massage can bring the following benefits to the expectant mother:
- increase blood flow, lymph movement, which helps to improve fetal nutrition;
- relax muscles, relieve tension and spasm, remove;
- reduce the likelihood of developing legs and arms;
- relieve emotional stress;
- increase skin elasticity and reduce the likelihood of appearance.
Indications
The expectant mother may face discomfort and certain health problems during the period of carrying a baby, which can be solved with the help of massage.
These include:
The most common trouble of this period and the indication for the course of procedures is swelling. The retention of fluid in the tissues is due to the load on the organs and systems of the woman, as well as changes in the hormonal background. Massage improves blood circulation and reduces the likelihood of edema.
The next indication for massage is the increasing load on the woman's spinal column, caused by the growth of the baby and the increase in its weight. Using the procedure, you can relieve muscle tension around the spine and joints, improve blood circulation.
The basis for the massage is the state of psychological fatigue of the expectant mother. The course of the procedures performed will help eliminate mood swings and improve the general condition of the woman.
Contraindications
Like any other medical manipulation, massage may be contraindicated during pregnancy in the following cases:
- if the attending physician does not consider it possible to carry out the procedure;
- an increase in temperature or blood pressure;
- chronic diseases in the stage of exacerbation;
- severe back pain;
- epilepsy;
- strong;
- asthma;
- severe edema;
- chronic diseases of the heart and blood vessels;
- skin diseases;
- inflammation in the pelvic organs;
- neoplasms.
These are absolute contraindications. Relative can be attributed to the rejection of the sensation of someone else's touch to their own body in a pregnant woman. In this case, it is recommended to replace it with self-massage.
Even if the massage is allowed by the attending physician, this should be treated with caution. Rough or excessive traffic can have negative consequences. The risk is especially high in the first trimester of pregnancy. At such an early date, it is advisable to exclude procedures.
Basic massage rules for pregnant women
Massage during pregnancy involves exposure to the legs, neck area, shoulders, back and arms. It should be carried out by a professional. This is due to the presence of certain points on the woman's body, the wrong effect on which can lead to (sacrum, coccyx, heels and thumbs on the palm). In this regard, in the first trimester, when the threat of miscarriage is increased, it is better to perform light self-massage.
When carrying out the procedure, it is important to choose the correct and comfortable position for the expectant mother. The position of the body should be such that it is easy to relax and nothing distracts or irritates the woman. The most comfortable position will be lying on your side or sitting. You can't lie on your stomach, especially in the second half of pregnancy.
The massage is performed with light stroking, rubbing movements. Vibration and tapping should not be used. If during the procedure the woman felt unwell, the manipulations should be stopped and a doctor should be consulted. The duration of the general massage should not exceed 40 minutes.
Can abdominal massage be done during pregnancy? No, this area cannot be massaged. Stroking movements are recommended to "communicate" with the baby, but nothing more. Only just before childbirth, specialists can perform abdominal massage in order to speed up and make this process easier.
What massage can be done for pregnant women?
Given the possibility of exposure through certain points on the woman's body, massage during the period of bearing a child must be treated very carefully and selectively. What massage can be done to pregnant women without harm to health?
General massage is allowed, but the abdominal area is excluded. You should not think about whether pregnant women can back massage. It is definitely possible and even especially useful for those who constantly suffer from pulling back pains. Exposure to this area will relieve tension, since the load on the lumbosacral spine during this period is colossal.
Pregnant women can massage their hands and feet. This will help prevent swelling. It is recommended to do this massage daily for 5-10 minutes. It should not be forgotten that severe varicose veins with thrombosis is a direct contraindication for such manipulation.
In the early stages, you should refrain from massaging the mammary glands due to the likelihood of provoking a miscarriage. In the third trimester, such a procedure can be carried out, because at this time the breast is preparing for.
Can pregnant women massage the neck area? Yes, if there are no direct contraindications, this procedure will be very useful for the expectant mother: it will relieve tension in the muscles around the cervical and thoracic spine, shoulder joint, improve blood circulation, and relieve pain.
Many women are interested in whether it is possible to do anti-cellulite massage during pregnancy? There is no definite answer to this question. Most often, gynecologists do not recommend it. Many types of anti-cellulite massage are prohibited during this period. To this should be added the low efficiency of the procedures, since it is very difficult to cope with such a problem only with massage without a special diet and sports.
It is clear that pregnancy excludes an integrated approach to solving this problem. Some specialists allow certain types, for example, vacuum, manual or spoon anti-cellulite massage. Before deciding on such a procedure, it is necessary to check with the doctor whether it is possible to do such a massage for pregnant women. The doctor's permission will be a guarantee that these actions will not harm the baby, and the expectant mother will benefit.
Pregnancy is not a hindrance to massage. This procedure will help the expectant mother to cope with the discomfort caused by the increasing stress on the body and improve her emotional state. Before starting the course of procedures, it is necessary to check with the doctor whether it is possible for pregnant women to do such a massage, and make sure that the masseur is highly qualified.
Useful video about massage during pregnancy
The unanimous opinion of obstetricians and gynecologists: almost any massage in the early stages of pregnancy belongs to the category of absolutely contraindicated procedures, since it is in the first trimester that many miscarriages occur.
You can only do a light cosmetic facial massage during pregnancy - along the classic massage lines, and to relieve headaches - massage the temples and scalp. But it's not a fact that this will help, because the female body during pregnancy often reacts unpredictably to ordinary actions ...
Let's not forget that hormonal changes in a woman's body during this period affect almost all systems - from endocrine to musculoskeletal. And everything that can destabilize or disrupt this complex process must be abandoned without any doubt. Especially if the pregnancy was given to the woman at a high price: long-term hormone therapy, previous breakdowns, etc.
In domestic obstetric practice, contraindications to massage for expectant mothers are recognized: individual characteristics of a particular woman's condition, toxicosis, acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections in a pregnant woman, as well as arterial hypertension, varicose veins in the legs, dermatological diseases and problems with the cardiovascular system.
From a scientific point of view, the mechanisms of action of massage are still largely unknown. Although research from the Miami University School of Medicine suggests massage therapy during pregnancy (antenatal massage) may have some beneficial effects, including reducing anxiety and relaxation, improving mood and sleep, and reducing pain in the back and legs. It is believed that massage can increase the level of hormones such as serotonin and dopamine, and reduce the level of cortisol (stress hormone), on the contrary.
Safety and comfort for the mother and child ensures the correct position of the body: during the massage, the pregnant woman must lie on her side, and the abdomen must be supported with a pillow or a special roller (massage tables with a "hole" for the abdomen, as gynecologists say, are completely unsuitable).
Secondly, during the gestation period, some massage techniques cannot be used, for example, the study of deeply located muscles, adopted in classical massage, or Thai massage during pregnancy, in the list of contraindications for which pregnancy is in the first place. Promising getting rid of cellulite, edema and even varicose veins, lymphatic drainage massage during pregnancy is also contraindicated.
Third, certain areas of the body should be avoided: pressure on the wrists and ankles on the legs can cause the muscles of the uterus to contract!
There is no need for a special breast massage during pregnancy: in the mammary glands, under the influence of the hormones prolactin and lactogen, an increase in glandular tissue, the number and size of alveoli and milk ducts occurs. A light massage can be done while bathing - by rotating both hands around the chest. But the areola and nipple must not be touched. Even a light touch to this erogenous zone, not like a nipple massage during pregnancy, causes the muscle tissue of the uterus to contract, increasing its tone.
The use of massage oils and creams - despite the manufacturers' statements about their complete safety - is unacceptable, since they contain too many "auxiliary substances", including parabens. In addition, their smell can cause headaches, nausea and vomiting in a pregnant woman.
Anti-cellulite massage during pregnancy
Cellulite during pregnancy appears in many expectant mothers, and this worries them very much and raises concerns that after childbirth it will not go away. It may not pass, but gynecologists warn that anti-cellulite massage during pregnancy is not only contraindicated, but also useless. Changes in the structure of the subcutaneous fat layer - gynoid lipodystrophy or cellulite - occur for many reasons and more often with a general negative influence of metabolic and hormonal factors. In any case, it will not be possible to force the stretched collagen fibers, which should tightly hold the subcutaneous fat cells in the thighs and buttocks, to contract during pregnancy.
Here hormonal changes in the body of pregnant women (excess estrogen), and a hereditary factor (the American Academy of Dermatology experts see a genetic predisposition to cellulite), and, of course, weight gain during the period of gestation (see - How not to gain weight during pregnancy) ...
A contraindication also applies to such a variety as vacuum cupping massage during pregnancy. And if they tell you that honey massage during pregnancy can be done and that it will help you to reduce the "orange peels" on the thighs, do not believe it. Although in beauty salons they promise that intense pressing movements on problem areas smeared with warm honey give a good "anti-cellulite effect". Perhaps this massage helps someone, but in pregnant women, such a procedure will only increase the flow of blood into the subcutaneous capillaries and increase the pressure on their walls.
Foot massage during pregnancy
Swelling of the legs, as well as the appearance of a subcutaneous vascular mesh on the legs (on the calves, under the knees, on the feet near the ankles) are also problems that accompany pregnancy. So, maybe here you can use a foot massage during pregnancy?
Qualified masseurs adapt the basic massage techniques to the peculiarities of changes that occur in the body of a pregnant woman. For example, blood volume increases by a third during pregnancy, the outflow of blood from the veins of the legs often decreases (leading to stagnation), and the level of anticoagulants in the blood (designed to prevent bleeding during childbirth) rises. In addition, the walls of all blood vessels relax.
Under such conditions, massage, especially deep, with strong squeezing and beating, is simply dangerous. Therefore, massage the feet should be done with very light and slow strokes - only from the bottom up. In this case, you cannot massage the ankles and inner thighs, as well as areas where dilated blood vessels have appeared. By the way, with symptoms of varicose veins, doctors recommend that pregnant women wear medical compression hosiery and sleep with a small pillow under their feet. And the best foot massage during pregnancy is to walk barefoot on sand or small pebbles, on grass or just on the floor in an apartment.
Back, waist and neck massage during pregnancy
As the term increases, pregnant women begin to have back pain in the lumbar region. Many people think that it is all about the enlargement of the abdomen. But these pains are associated with the fact that during the period of bearing a child, the production of the hormone relaxin increases, which prepares the musculoskeletal system of a woman for the upcoming birth, increasing the mobility of the joints of the pelvic girdle and relaxing the ligaments of the spinal column, which causes the vertebrae to shift slightly. It is for this reason that pulling back pain occurs.
Back massage during pregnancy consists of stroking movements (from the lower back to the shoulder blades), gentle rubbing (on both sides of the spine). There is no need to rub the spine itself.
Light pressure (followed by rubbing) on \u200b\u200bthe short lateral and middle interspinous intertransverse muscles of the lumbar zone of the back is used to massage the lumbar during pregnancy. It is better to do it while standing or sitting, no more than 3 minutes - 2-3 times a day.
Neck massage during pregnancy is done according to the same principle, it can relieve not only pain in the cervical spine, but also headache, and even back pain. Often, after a long stay in a sitting position or after sleep (especially if a woman sleeps on a high pillow), pregnant women have a numb neck. A light massage of the collar zone during pregnancy will help to disperse the blood and remove unpleasant sensations. It is done by stroking and then lightly kneading the muscles on the lateral surfaces of the neck - from the spine to the trapezius muscles. And the trapezius muscles (which grab the back of the neck and upper back) are advised by masseurs to knead with your fingers, as if you are about to pinch yourself.
Belly massage during pregnancy
Experts from the American Pregnancy Association strongly advise not to massage the abdomen during pregnancy, and our obstetricians are in solidarity with them. Although on the Internet you can find the statement that "after four months, belly massage for pregnant women is the most recommended."
Like, such a massage (we quote): “reduces a woman’s morning sickness, activates the digestive organs and reduces the acidity of the stomach, reduces the risk of stretch marks and increases muscle tone” ... Only an increase in muscle tone corresponds to the truth, but a pregnant woman needs such a reflex effect in every possible way to avoid.
You can only lightly and gently stroke the rounded tummy and at the same time talk affectionately with those who develop there. This is very useful for both the mother and the child.
Perineal massage during pregnancy
Western trends can explain the interest in such a procedure as perineal massage during pregnancy, which "is used to stretch the skin of the perineum and prepare the perineal area for childbirth." It is recommended to pre-apply a warm compress on the perineal area and lubricate the perineum and index and middle fingers with vegetable oil. The fingers are then inserted into the vagina to a depth of 1 inch (2.5 cm), pressing down and stretching to the sides (and hold this for about two minutes).
At the same time, it is argued that such prenatal massage helps to prevent perineal tears during childbirth and to do without perineotomy (dissection of the skin of the perineum).
Obviously, the inventors of this massage do not know that the perineal region, as a part of the pubococcygeal muscle of the pelvic floor, apart from the skin, has several layers of striated muscles, and the described manipulations cannot affect them in any way. But you can bring an infection, cause a spasm of the myometrium, tone the uterus and get to the maternity ward ahead of time.
After childbirth, it is imperative to do massage after pregnancy: it will help speed up the recovery of the body of a young mother to a “pre-pregnant” state, relieve muscle pain and relax. It is clear that at first the main efforts will be directed to the stomach. You should consult on how to massage it correctly while still in the hospital.
