Tag Archives: Contraindications

Pregnancy brings many wonderful changes, but it can also bring some discomforts, especially as the body adapts to the growing baby. Common complaints include swelling, water retention, and aching joints. An effective and non-invasive treatment for these issues is lymphatic drainage massage (MLD), which can offer relief, promote wellness, and help pregnant individuals feel their best. In this blog, we’ll explore the safety, benefits, and potential contraindications of lymphatic drainage massage during pregnancy, as well as how this therapy can be customised to suit each individual’s needs. The Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage During Pregnancy Lymphatic drainage massage focus in boosting the work of the lymphatic system. By increasing the functionality of this body system, we promote the flow of lymph liquids and help the body to move unwanted substances, as well as reduce fluid retention. This type of massage has been shown to have specific benefits for pregnant individuals (Cataldo Oportus et al., 2013), particularly when it comes to managing swelling and improving overall circulation. The benefits of include: Reduction of Swelling (Oedema): One of the most common pregnancy-related discomforts is swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs. Lymphatic drainage helps to enhance the flow of lymph, which can reduce fluid buildup in the tissues and alleviate discomfort caused by oedema. Relief from Pregnancy-Related Back Pain: Lymphatic drainage massage can reduce tension in the back and promote better posture, helping to relieve pain caused by the increased weight and pressure on the spine during pregnancy. In this case, the treatment is delivered in a side position. Improved Circulation: Pregnancy can lead to changes in blood flow and circulation. Lymphatic drainage promotes circulation and can improve oxygen and nutrient delivery to both the mother and baby. Mental and Emotional Wellbeing: Lymphatic drainage massage is extremely relaxing, and this positive side effect of the treatment can help you in having a better sleep which obviously can overcome stress and body ache. Per standard and comfort, at Melbourne Massage and Treatment, I tend to deliver lymphatic drainage massage in a seated position for pregnant women. This is possible thanks to the reclined hydraulic table, which can be converted from a flat table into a comfortable and big chair. How Compression Stockings Can Help Reduce Swelling Another effective way to manage swelling during pregnancy is the use of compression stockings. I recommend and provide to my patient stockings from Sigvaris, which is one of the world’s leading stocking manufacturers. The idea of using stocking, is to maintain pressure and liquid moving along the day, while sitting or walking, or doing your daily activities. How the stocking works is by adding a constant compression, which still leave you with a comfortable feeling and does help in pushing the liquid towards the upper body, reducing the chances of fluid accumulation in the lower limbs. For pregnancy, the grade recommended is grade 2, which is a clinical grade stocking. Consider that grade 3 is what is recommended for presentation like Lymphoedema. In terms of measurements, I can easily take mesuraments on site for the best fitting compression, and have the leggings with in 2 to 3 business days. For any enquire about the product or the services please do not hesistate to contact me now. What to Consider When Delivering a Massage During Pregnancy Now we are going to talk about what to consider when we deliver a massage to a pregnant patient, and as you will read, often light pressure is a must in this type of treatment, which gives lymphatic drainage massage an advantage compared to traditional relaxation pregnancy massage. So, there are certain areas of the body that we tend to avoid working on during a massage treatment for pregnancy, or where we may work on, but with a really light pressure and a full verbal or sometimes written consent. Here is a brief summary: 1. Abdominal Area: Deep or direct pressure on the abdominal area is a big NO. Instead, we can do gentle, light strokes if the patient is comfortable with it and they request it. Explicit consent here is a must. 2. Lower Back (Spine and Sacral Area): This is another big NO for heavy pressure. The reason lies behind the fact that strong pressure can lead to strain of the ligaments that hold the joints together, which, as the pregnancy progresses to a later stage, become more and more relaxed, allowing the birth to happen. So again, gentle massage techniques such as effleurage (long, sweeping strokes) or light kneading can be beneficial, but light touch. 3. Legs: Inner thighs another area where we avoid strong pressure, due to the presence of pressure points that could potentially stimulate uterine contractions if over-stimulated (e.g., peroneal or acupressure points). 4. Ankles and Feet: Ankles and feet, as there are acupressure points (like those related to the reproductive system) that may lead to unwanted effects if stimulated too forcefully. That said, a gentle foot massage can help relieve swelling and discomfort. 5. Hand and wrist The area of your hand, between thumb and index, and the pulsing point on the wrist, are other areas where massage is not recommended as it can cause contractions. Always remember that this is a brief summary, and everyone can react differently to the work received in that area. Therefore, there is no need to be scared of making contact with other people, and you should feel comfortable with your body. Trimesters and Positioning The position to be in during a massage, including lymphatic drainage massage, also depends on the trimester in which you are. First Trimester (0–12 Weeks): Lying on the back or side is generally fine during the first trimester, as long as the client is comfortable. A reclining position with support (e.g., pillows or bolsters) is often preferred for comfort. Lying prone (on the stomach) can be done during the first trimester if the client feels comfortable. However, lying flat on the stomach will become uncomfortable and impractical as pregnancy progresses. Second and Third […]