How to massage during pregnancy?

Question

I'm experiencing some aches and pains as my pregnancy progresses, and a massage sounds wonderful. How can I safely get a massage during pregnancy? Are there specific areas to avoid or techniques to use?

Mansi Sehgal · Answer

I am still hoping to conceive soon, but my elder sister told me that during pregnancy, only very gentle leg oiling is done at home. We shouldn't put any weight or pressure on the back. It's better to be safe and ask your gynac first.

Saakshi Mohanty · Answer

Since I had gestational diabetes, I had to keep my circulation good but safely. I used to do very gentle, self-massage with warm olive oil on my legs. Avoid heavy pressure and definitely don't massage the tummy area, it's not safe.

Vartika Parikh · Answer

Get gentle strokes only, never press hard on tummy or lower back. Please consult your gynac before getting any prenatal massage.

Madhavi Dey · Answer

My mother suggested a light warm coconut oil massage for legs, which felt so relaxing. But my gynac strictly told me to avoid any deep pressure on the back and stomach. Always ask your doctor before letting any local maalish wali touch u.

Daakshayani Thiagarajan · Answer

Yaar, pregnancy backaches are real, but don't just call any random maalish wali. Actually my doc said only trained prenatal massage therapists are safe. Keep the pressure very light, mostly just soft strokes.

Nutan Tanwar · Answer

In our house, my MIL was very strict about this and didn't let any local masseuse touch my back. She said only light leg rubbing with warm oil is safe at home. If u really want a full massage, better ask your gynac first to avoid any risks.

Urvashi Sisodiya · Answer

Listen, sweetie, be very careful with massages right now. Only do extremely light strokes on legs and arms to ease the swelling. No rough massages or hard pressure on your back or tummy, okay? Ask your doc if u can hire a certified prenatal massager.

Subhadra Kale · Answer

From a practical view, standard deep tissue massages are a big no during pregnancy. Light effleurage (gentle sweeping strokes) with warm oil on legs is great for blood circulation. Avoid stomach massage completely and get clearance from your doctor first.

Rachna Varma · Answer

Same here, light leg massage helped my swelling. Always check with your gynac first to stay safe.

Gulabi Nandi · Answer

When I was at my parents' house, my mom used to gently put warm mustard oil on my feet and calves before sleeping. It felt so comforting and helped me sleep. But we never did any heavy massage on the body, just simple loving touches.