When you're pregnant, you might experience swollen feet that become sore and tired more quickly than usual. Getting a foot massage while you're pregnant can be a great source of relief, but it's important that you get the right kind of massage from a professional to avoid the possibility of triggering labor. Talk to your doctor or midwife before getting any massage during pregnancy to make sure it's safe. Always tell your massage practitioner that you are pregnant before she begins your massage.
Benefits
Getting a foot massage while you are pregnant can help you relax. Foot massages also can increase circulation, relieving swelling and pain. Getting a foot massage from a professional who specializes in reflexology can help relieve many pregnancy symptoms. Reflexologists use massage to stimulate pressure points on your feet to relieve common pregnancy issues such as morning sickness, heartburn and fatigue.
Considerations
Seek out a massage therapist or reflexologist who specializes in prenatal massage. Let your therapist know that you are pregnant before the massage begins so that she can avoid triggering pressure points that might stimulate labor. Don't let a massage therapist apply pressure to the areas between your heels and your ankles unless you are trying to bring on labor. Reflexologists use pressure points in this location to start contractions.
Contraindications
Some massage therapists won't perform massages on women in the first trimester since there is a risk of miscarriage at this time. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, hypertension, preeclampsia or a history of early labors, you might want to avoid foot massages during pregnancy. If you have severe swelling in your feet, talk to your doctor before getting a massage to discuss safe treatment options.
Labor
If you are ready to go into labor, talk to your doctor or midwife about getting a reflexology foot massage to bring on contractions. Once you are in labor, a foot massage might help to relieve some of your discomfort. Some hospitals and birthing centers have massage therapists on hand who can give you a foot massage designed to ease pain and increase contractions while you are in early labor.
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