Massage--safe?

[Island_Mama]

Ok. SO I have read and heard that certain pressure points are to be left alone during pregnancy and if you get a massage you should really have it done by someone that has been trained to massage pregnant women.
I have my boyfriend massage me, he's no profeesional, and het tries to get all the tight muscles and knots and all. Is this one of those things people worry too much for nothing or is it something I really should have been more careful about? because honestly I just enjoy the massages so much I didn't want to ask.:
I really do sleep way better if he massages me before bed.

[Wild Flowers]

I really think that pressure points will only put you into labor if your body is ready. Why do I say this, because we tried all three pressure points for three weeks before I actually went into labor. The only ones I know of are the roof of your mouth, there was one on your hand, can't remember where, one on your lower leg and one on the arch of your foot. Maybe if you search labor pressure points you will be able to find where they are exactly and avoid them. I much prefer my dh to give me a massage, he will actually work out my tight muscles. Everytime I have gone to get a pregnancy massage they have acted like they will break me and are so gentle. That said, a few of my friends who are still over there have raved about Heaven On Earth for prenatal massages, if you feel inclined to go somewhere and get one

[Carinthia]

I think the key is that everybodies sensitivities are at a different level. As a massage therapist I can tell you I always avoid the web of the thumb, the ankle and heel area in all pregnant women. And also don't use the prone (laying on tummy) position after the first trimester. Another thing to watch out for - especially later on - is not to overstretch the tendons and ligaments. Since you loosen up naturally in pregancy to prepare for birth this can be an issue for some women. Enjoy your massages!

[Massagemamma]

So my two cents. As a massage therapist. Yeah, there are some points that if intensely stimulated can cause a ready body to go into labor. The spot on the hand is in the thumb pad. There are points around the ankle and calf and one on the sternum too. People trained in pregnancy massage are just basically taught these points and how to make a prego lady more comfortable on the table. There are no safety risks. I would say go to who ever makes you feel the best. With loosening ligaments, you might want the muscles rubbed, but be careful that they are not cross frictioning on ligaments that are all ready loose and sore. In general though, its one of the best things possible during pregnancy. That's what my clients have all said.

Hey, if you got a partner who rubs with love. More power to you!!

[Island_Mama]

Wow thanks, that's so interesting I didn't know.
Yeah I feel so spoiled I don't even have to ask him. I toss and turn a lot at night and sometimes he'll just wake up and start rubbing and massaging my back. He only does my back, when I am either on my side or sitting at the edge of the couch.
no hand massages

[deuxceleste]

Originally Posted by Island_Mama

Wow thanks, that's so interesting I didn't know.
Yeah I feel so spoiled I don't even have to ask him. I toss and turn a lot at night and sometimes he'll just wake up and start rubbing and massaging my back. He only does my back, when I am either on my side or sitting at the edge of the couch.
no hand massages

I want so badly to call you a name right now.

Suffice it to say... LUCKY!!!!!!!!