Healthwise

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Massage Therapy During Pregnancy

Overview

A family member or friend could give you a massage. Or you could get a professional massage. In either case, there are things you can do to help make sure that the massage is safe.

  • If you get a professional massage, tell your massage therapist that you are pregnant.
  • Be sure that your massage therapist has special training in pregnancy massage.
  • Use a safe body position during massage.

    As your pregnancy progresses, the best positions are sitting on a chair or stool or lying on your side. (The left side is best later in pregnancy.)

    • After your third month of pregnancy (or much earlier if you are carrying twins or more), avoid lying on your belly.
    • After your fourth month of pregnancy, avoid lying on your back.
  • Avoid massage of your belly.

    Firm massage of the pregnant belly could cause serious pregnancy problems.

  • Talk to your doctor before using aromatherapy oils.

    Some essential oils may be unsafe during pregnancy.

Related Information

Credits

Current as of: July 10, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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