Massages and Chiropractor in first trimester?

IBackBevo · February 2012

I read somewhere on this board that massages in the first trimester were a no-no. Anyone know why?

Also, what about the chiropractor? Is the same true for that? My back has been killing me.

TravelSnob · February 2012

I had 2 massages in my first tri and my baby is completely fine.

I just told my massage therapist so they didn't do pressure points on the feet or hands and the went easy on the lower back and focused more on my upper back, neck and shoulders.

I'm going to the chiro for the first time today since my BFP so I hope it's OK.

I would definitely make sure that they are aware and they should adjust acordingly.

dontmissathing · February 2012

It depends on what you read. I've read a few things about getting massages during your 1st trimester. From what I've read, most massage therapists have just been taught that they shouldn't because it could "cause" a miscarriage or that they shouldn't because if the woman should have a miscarriage they could blame the massage therapist. So it is more just to protect their own butts. However, from what I read, if you find a skilled massage therapist, there shouldn't be any concern for you to get a massage. They just might not rub certain places like your stomach. (I don't usually get my stomach massaged anyway.) You just need to let them know up front. My husband actually scheduled me a massage for our anniversary next week and I'm super excited!

MarisaKathleen · February 2012

Not true. I see a chiropractor every week. Totally fine, you just have to let them know you're pregnant. It's actually very good to get in the habit of seeing one while you're pregnant so that everything is where it should be. Not to mention once you start showing, your protruding belly will cause your spine to naturally curve, thus causing a possible misalignment. Mine even adjusts my hips...the thought being that if your hips/pelvis aren't aligned correctly, it may also make it difficult for the baby to get into the best possible position when it comes time for delivery.

Also, massages are fine, just make sure they're not massaging your pelvis/baby area. I worked in a spa for just about 10 years and worked with a lot of massage students. :-)

CLeigh03 · February 2012

I've had massages in my 1st tri - just have to do the research to ensure they are certified in prenatal massages.

hunter91011 · February 2012

MarisaKathleen:

Not true. I see a chiropractor every week. Totally fine, you just have to let them know you're pregnant. It's actually very good to get in the habit of seeing one while you're pregnant so that everything is where it should be. Not to mention once you start showing, your protruding belly will cause your spine to naturally curve, thus causing a possible misalignment. Mine even adjusts my hips...the thought being that if your hips/pelvis aren't aligned correctly, it may also make it difficult for the baby to get into the best possible position when it comes time for delivery.

Also, massages are fine, just make sure they're not massaging your pelvis/baby area. I worked in a spa for just about 10 years and worked with a lot of massage students. :-)

This! I asked my Dr specifically about the chiropractor at my last appointment, he said go for it. I also asked the chiropractor, and he said he can adjust me up until 8.5 months.

black.kat · February 2012

just saw my chiropractor today!

eunruh69 · February 2012

chiropractic care is the best thing you can do for yourself pregnant or not. I've already seen my chiro twice since finding out and he told me the only two things he does differently with pregnant patients is no roller table (which is truly unfortunate), and when the bump gets to big he moves me to his "beer belly and pregnancy table".

I've also heard massages are fine as long as the person KNOWS you're pregnant and is experienced in pre-natal massage.

RS350028 · February 2012

I LOVE reading this board ladies! Good for you! I work as a massage therapist and can tell you that we are taught that it is fine to give massages to women in their first trimester, but it is discouraged only to save the LMT from being blamed for a miscarriage. As a massage therapist, I agree with previous points, I avoid certain reflexology points in the feet, and won't work abdomens, but I continue with the back. Massages throughout your pregnancy can help with labor, so I encourage you to continue!

Next, I'm also a chiropractic student, graduating in a few months and going to start my diplomate in pediatric and neonatal care. Any chiropractor can help you during your pregnancy to keep the body aligned and functioning optimally, however there are also chiropractors out there who specialize in pregnant women and children, you can go to the ICA website and find chiropractors who are certified in your area.

Go to your massage therapist, and see your chiropractor, like others have said, tell them about your pregnancy! They will be happy to help you through it all! Good luck ladies!

bride2005!! · February 2012

***Lurking***

I've been to the Chiro since day 1 of my pregnancy. I have had no back pain, M/S, headaches, etc. Not sure if the two are related but I have felt great (even at this stage). Always consult your doctor if you are worried but I am a BIG fan of my Chiro.

Hyaline · February 2012

Ditto absolutely everyone on the chiro. There's even been research to suggest that regular chiropractic care can reduce instances of breech and the need to intervene via C-section (which makes sense, if you think about everything in your body being connected!). Just make sure he or she knows you're pregnant

NBBride05 · February 2012

Went to my chiropractor tonight! He said that it is completely safe to get adjustments, he just avoids deep tissue work for the 1st trimester and uses lighter pressure. He adjusts lots of pregnant women and said it is healthy for both me and the baby!

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