Are massages during pregnancy harmful?
On One Hand: Miscarriage Statistics and Other PrecautionsAccording to the American Pregnancy Association (APA), some massage therapy “facilities will refuse to offer massage to a woman who is still in her first trimester because of the increased statistics for miscarriage associated with the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.” Women who are in a high-risk pregnancy, who have pregnancy-induced hypertension, pre-eclempsia, previous pre-term labor, recently gave birth, or who experience “severe swelling, high blood pressure, or sudden, severe headaches” should be cautious about getting a massage while pregnant.On the Other: Benefits and Certified ProfessionalsThe APA also states that massage during pregnancy, when performed by a professional certified in pre- and post-natal massage, “can reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle aches and joint pains, and improve labor outcomes and newborn health.” Such massage therapy can moderate hormone levels, reduce swelling, reduce n
