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3rd Trimester
Can I get a pedicure?
My best friend just suggested that I not go for my scheduled pedicure tomorrow : ( I am 38 weeks along and was in the hospital the other night for 6 hours due to strong contractions that dialted me to 3 cms and they sent me home. She thinks the massage from the pedicure could put me back in the same boat (I have a scheduled c section next week).
Anybody know anything about this? I searched online but nothing is very specific, most sites say pedis are OK during pregnancy but doesn't mention anything about being this far along.....
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Re: Can I get a pedicure?
The pedicure is probably fine. If you don't want to move labor along, then don't let them massage your legs by your ankle/achilles tendon area. There's supposed to be a pressure point/nerve in that area that helps jump start labor.
You should be fine--there are some pressure points and places in your heel that they say can bring on contractions but I honestly think those places will only bring on contractions if your body is ready to go into labor anyway (plus being how far along you are, your body just may be ready to go into labor)
Just mention to the nail tech to try and watch the ankles when they do the massage part, most places/nail techs will know not to press on the achilies tendon on pregnant women but I would go and enjoy yourself!
From https://www.mommyfeet.com/index.php?fuseaction=content&page=foot-massage-and-pregnancy
"Your feet are under a tremendous amount of pressure during pregnancy, and foot massage is particularly beneficial. Some people believe that certain pressure points or touch points on the foot can induce labor and foot massages should be avoided during pregnancy; however, this assertion is not backed by rigorous scientific study. The number and location of these pressure points is also debated; purported locations of these pressure points range from roof of the mouth to the back, hands, calves, ankles and feet. Specifically with respect to the feet and ankles, leading proponents claim that these touch points exist either somewhere between the anklebone and the heel, or a few inches above the anklebone. The labor process is fundamentally affected by hormones and muscle relaxation. While it may be possible that the massage process could aid in relaxing muscles or release of hormones, there is a lack of empirical evidence to suggest that pregnant women should avoid a relaxing foot massage or a pedicure.
If you are very concerned about the possibility of early labor induction, avoid heavy pressure on your feet or use a massage therapist who specializes in prenatal massage. There is no reason you shouldn't enjoy a relaxing foot massage."
This.