Are you about getting a lymphatic drainage massage while pregnant and wondering if it's safe?
Well, you've come to the right place!
Pregnancy is a transformative experience for every woman. The thought of being able to create new life can feel overwhelming and beautiful at the same time.
But while growing a little human inside you can be magical, the physical and emotional changes that come with it can also be very exhausting. Common pregnancy problems expecting mothers often experience include edema, back pain, puffy eyes, headaches, and fatigue.
One way to alleviate these discomforts is to get a lymphatic drainage massage while pregnant.
This gentle form of massage therapy involves applying very light pressure to specific points on the body for relief. It's designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, a network of lymph nodes and vessels that help detoxify your body and eliminate excess lymphatic fluid.
As pregnancy comes with a lot of fluid retention, stimulating the lymphatic system can benefit expecting mothers. But which tips should you consider when getting a drainage massage?
Are there any safety precautions you should take for an effective massage experience? That's what we will discuss in this article.
You'll find some tips to get the most out of your massage to ensure you and your baby's safety. But first, let's explore why you should get a lymphatic drainage massage while pregnant.
Why Get Lymphatic Drainage Massage While Pregnant
Getting a lymph drainage massage while pregnant can be incredibly beneficial for expecting mothers. Some of the most notable benefits include:
It boosts your energy levels
Carrying a child can be exhausting.
So, it's common for expecting mothers to feel exhausted during their pregnancy.
Increased demands on your body and hormonal changes can leave you tired and drained.
Fortunately, performing a lymphatic massage while pregnant can help increase your energy levels, giving you the boost you need to stay active. This is because massaging helps to stimulate blood flow, which can help improve oxygen levels while moving nutrients around your body.
With oxygenated blood and nutrients flowing through your body, you find it easier to cope with the physical demands of pregnancy.
It reduces swollen ankles and feet
Expecting a baby can cause ankles and feet to become swollen due to extra body weight and hormonal changes.
Widely known as edema, this condition can be incredibly uncomfortable and make walking, sitting, or standing difficult for long periods.
Getting a drainage massage while pregnant can help flush out the body of toxins and excess fluids that can be causing the swelling. It can also help reduce water retention and promote better circulation, which can all contribute to a reduction of edema.
This way, you can reduce your discomfort and feel more comfortable in your body throughout the pregnancy.
It helps to reduce puffy eyes
Are you suffering from puffy eyes due to pregnancy hormones?
Performing a regular massage for lymphatic flow can help with that too. Expecting mothers often experience puffiness around the eyes due to hormonal changes and extra fluid retention.
When you get a drainage massage, the therapist will use gentle and rhythmic motions to help move toxins and fluids out of the face. You can also incorporate massage tools into your session to achieve even better results.
This way, you can reduce the puffiness around your eyes and feel more comfortable.
You'll sleep better
Getting better sleep and rest while pregnant is essential for you and the baby.
Unfortunately, the physical demands of pregnancy can make it difficult to get a good night's sleep. This is where getting a lymph drainage massage while pregnant can help.
The gentle and rhythmic motions used during a drainage massage help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. This can help make it easier to drift off and get a good night's rest.
It helps to treat carpal tunnel syndrome
Ever heard of carpal tunnel syndrome?
It's a condition caused by pressure on the median nerve in your wrist due to swelling. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common issue for expecting mothers, as when the baby grows, it puts extra pressure on your wrists.
Fortunately, getting a lymphatic drainage massage while pregnant can help you feel better. The gentle and rhythmic motions used during a lymphatic drainage massage help to reduce swelling and improve circulation in the area, thus relieving the pressure on your median nerve.
It provides stress relief
Stress is something that most expecting mothers experience during pregnancy.
This can result from hormonal changes in your body, lack of sleep, or simply the fact that you must adapt to a new lifestyle. Without any way to manage stress, you may start to feel overwhelmed.
Getting a lymphatic drainage massage while pregnant can help you to relax and unwind, as it helps to stimulate your body's natural relaxation response. It also encourages your body to release endorphins, natural hormones that leave you calm and relaxed.
Now that you understand how beneficial a drainage massage is, let's explore some simple ways to get this therapy while pregnant.
Let's find out!
Simple Ways to Get Drainage Massage While Pregnant
From finding a massage therapist to getting one at home, there are many ways to get a drainage massage while pregnant. Here are some simple ways you can do it:
Visit a massage therapist
Visiting a massage therapist is one of the best ways to get a lymph drainage massage while pregnant.
This qualified professional will be able to provide a safe and comfortable massage that is specifically tailored to your needs. They will use light strokes and circular motions to help move toxins and lymph fluids out of areas that may be swollen or tender. This can help to reduce the puffiness around your eyes and make you feel more comfortable.
Another great benefit of visiting a lymphatic massage therapist is that they can provide advice on how to use self-massage techniques in between visits for extra relief.
Try self-massage at home
If you can't reach a massage therapist, you can try self-massage at home.
This can be achieved simply by using your hands to gently stroke and knead different parts of your body. Another way to perform self-massage while pregnant is through massage tools.
These easy-to-use devices can assist in your body's natural detoxification process and clear away toxins in areas that include your legs, face, or body. Popular massage tools used by pregnant women are massage guns and leg massagers.
Here's how they play a role in cleansing your lymphatic system:
Massage guns
Massage guns are a popular tool for anyone looking to perform lymphatic drainage massage at home.
These devices use percussion therapy, which helps to stimulate your body's natural detoxification process and clear away toxins from your lymph system.
Pregnant women can use massage guns to gently massage where they are experiencing tenderness or discomfort. This can help to reduce swelling and improve circulation in the area.
While a massage gun is very powerful and effective, gently using them while pregnant is essential. Percussive massage guns from fitness brands like Fusion Recovery are specially designed with a wide range of massage gun heads and speed intensity settings for a more tailor-made massage.
Expectant mothers can choose a light massage setting to enjoy the benefits of lymph drainage massage without any side effects.
Leg massagers
Perfect for expectant mothers dealing with edema, leg massagers are an excellent tool for drainage massage at home.
These massage tools provide gentle air compression therapy by releasing air pressure in rhythmic waves to your lower extremities. This helps to ease discomfort and reduce swelling in your feet, ankles, and legs.
Modern-day massagers come with different modes and intensity levels, so you can find one that is as gentle as you need. Fusion makes cleansing out your lymphatic system even better with its Air C Pro.
This device is specially built with soft, breathable leg sleeves that wrap around your legs for a soothing massage experience. It comes with a remote control, allowing you to choose your massage intensity from three compression modes.
The Air C Pro also has a heated massage setting, which helps to relax your muscles and encourage lymph drainage massage.
These are just some ways you can perform lymphatic drainage massage while pregnant.
Whatever route you choose, it is essential to ensure that the massage you receive is safe and comfortable for your body. Let's explore some tips to remember when performing a lymphatic drainage massage on yourself or having a professional do it for you.
Safety Tips for Drainage Massage While Pregnant
While cleansing your lymphatic vessels during pregnancy is incredibly beneficial, it's essential to consider safety first.
Here are some simple tips you should keep in mind:
Wear comfortable clothing and avoid tight-fitting cloth
The type of clothing you wear can make a huge difference when it comes to performing drainage massage when pregnant.
Too tight clothing can put pressure on your body and potentially cause more harm than good. This is why it's important to wear comfortable clothing that moves easily with your body and doesn't restrict your movements.
Clothes you can wear while performing drainage massage while pregnant include loose t-shirts, leggings, and yoga pants.
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is incredibly important when it comes to performing drainage massage when pregnant.
This is because the lymphatic system relies on body fluids to flush out toxins and other waste for better immunity.
Therefore, you must ensure to drink plenty of water before and after your massage session throughout the day. This way, you can ensure that your body has all the fluid it needs to remain healthy and detoxify properly.
Don't massage your belly
First home to your baby, your belly should always be avoided when getting a drainage massage while pregnant.
This is because the extra pressure from the massage can harm you and the baby. What's more, getting a massage in this area can lead to unwanted uterine contractions and premature labor.
This way, you can ensure you and your baby stay safe during the massage.
Lightly massage your legs
While massaging your legs can help reduce swelling, it's important to avoid deep or pressure strokes when doing so.
This is because applying too much pressure can lead to unwanted pressure on the veins in your legs, making you prone to blood clots. Therefore, opting for light, circular motions instead of deep strokes when massaging your legs is best.
This way, you can reduce heavy legs and swelling without putting yourself or your baby at risk.
Take frequent breaks
While you may feel like you can take on a long massage session, taking frequent breaks is essential to ensure your body is comfortable.
Being pregnant comes with its own aches and pains, so it's best to give yourself a chance to rest throughout the massage. Taking frequent breaks will help you stay well hydrated, keep your body relaxed, and ensure you're not pushing yourself too hard.
Use massage oil
Applying massage oil to your skin may help make the massage more comfortable.
Massage oils are great for helping reduce friction and providing a smoother finish when performing massage strokes. It's also important to note that certain essential oils should be avoided while pregnant.
Common essential oils such as rosemary, clary sage, juniper, and lavender have been linked to uterine contractions in pregnant women. Therefore, it's best to opt for a massage oil that does not contain these ingredients to ensure your safety.
Following these tips ensures that your drainage massage session is a safe and comfortable experience. Now, let's explore some lifestyle tips to help you get the most out of your massage during pregnancy.
Lifestyle Changes to Maximize Drainage Massage While Pregnant
Lifestyle changes can be beneficial when maximizing the health benefits of a drainage massage. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Do light stretches
Performing light stretches can be extremely beneficial when maximizing the effects of drainage massage while pregnant.
Stretches help to increase flexibility and range of motion, which helps your body respond better to massage techniques. Yoga is a great way to get a full body stretch and can be easily incorporated into your massage routine.
This gentle technique is popular amongst pregnant women as it helps to relieve discomfort and stress.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet
Eating abundant, nutritious foods while pregnant is key to staying healthy and keeping your body functioning correctly.
When performing a drainage massage, eating healthily is even more important.
This is because eating healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins can help flush toxins out of your system faster. Eating plenty of water-rich foods like melons, cucumbers, and celery is also essential to help keep your body hydrated and full of energy.
Avoid caffeine
Caffeine can be a great energy source, but when pregnant, it's best to avoid it altogether.
This popular stimulant has diuretic effects, which can cause dehydration and interfere with detoxification. Therefore, it's best to stay away from caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea, or soft drinks so that you can get the most out of it.
Get enough rest
Getting enough rest is essential to maximize the benefits of a drainage massage while pregnant.
It allows your body to fully relax, enabling you to get the most out of your massage session. Make sure to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night and take frequent naps when necessary. Also, avoid strenuous activities that can leave you exhausted or drained for the day.
Doing this will help you make the most out of your drainage massage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still, got questions about drainage massage during pregnancy? Here are some answers to common questions:
When is the best time to get a drainage massage while pregnant?
Waiting until your second trimester before receiving a drainage massage while pregnant is generally recommended.
This is because the first trimester can be a period of rapid change in your body, and it's essential to wait until you are more settled into the changes before getting a massage. Compared to the first trimester, the second trimester is usually a safer and more relaxing time for a drainage massage.
It represents the middle part of your pregnancy from week 13 to week 28 and can be the optimal time for a massage.
How often should I get a drainage massage while pregnant?
Cleansing your body with a drainage massage while pregnant should be done in moderation.
We recommend performing a drainage massage from twice a week to once a month for maximum benefits. However, if you're dealing with a medical condition, it's best to talk with your healthcare provider for a tailored solution.
When should I avoid getting a drainage massage while pregnant?
While a drainage massage can be beneficial during pregnancy, there are certain times when you should avoid it.
If you have a high-risk pregnancy, it is best to avoid any type of massage altogether. Additionally, if you have any health condition like high blood pressure, kidney problems, or diabetes, it is best to consult your doctor before getting a massage.
This way, you can ensure you are entirely sure that massage is safe for you and your baby.
Conclusion
Drainage massage while pregnant can be a great way to keep you and your baby healthy.
Benefits of a drainage massage for expecting mothers include a healthier immune system, relief from swollen feet, better sleep, and improved energy levels. If you're also dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome while pregnant, regular drainage massage sessions can help you find relief.
Whether visiting a massage therapist or doing it yourself at home with a massage tool, follow the tips above to get the most out of your treatments. This first starts with wearing comfortable clothing, staying hydrated and applying massage oils or creams.
Remember to avoid massaging your belly area and pressure points during pregnancy. Lastly, check with your doctor first to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you get the most out of your drainage massage session. If you have any questions on this topic, feel free to reach out to our team of experts.
