Our approach to being pregnant has changed a lot over the last 50 years. Rather than staying at home and resting, many women nowadays choose to live full, active lives well into their pregnancy. For many people this means going to work, so we quite often come across mothers-to-be while doing onsite corporate massage. If you’re expecting (or have staff who are) then check out the following guide to the ins and outs of workplace massage while pregnant. As with a lot of things in life, there are a few extra factors to take into account during this time.
The Benefits
Onsite massage has some definite benefits while pregnant, so there’s absolutely no need to avoid it. These include:
- A reduction in muscle tension and general pregnancy discomfort.
- Improved blood flow and lymphatic drainage (which can be very beneficial for the baby).
- Help in relaxing and unwinding (a happy mother = a happy baby after all).
- No special equipment or table is needed - you can just remain relaxed in a comfy chair in the seated position (something that comes in handy when you have a big baby bump going on).
- A reduction in stress hormones and the promotion of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine - this helps to reduce the risk of depression.
- Increase energy and decreased tiredness due to blood flow and oxygen promotion.
The Risks
While there are lots of benefits, there are also a risk that some elements of massage can trigger uterine contractions. Our experiences massage therapists can help manage risks associated with:
- Massage/essential oils: some of these products have been known to prompt uterine contractions, but as we don’t use them in our workplace massage this is not something you have to worry about.
- Pressure points: certain pressure points in the wrists and ankles have the potential to trigger uterine contractions. Workplace massage usually focuses on neck, shoulders and upper back but it’s important to advise your therapist that you are pregnant so that they are aware and can avoid any potential risk factors.
Things To Consider
If you’re currently pregnant (or are hoping to be some time soon) here are a few things to consider next time we visit your workplace:
- You may be more sensitive than usual when pregnant and may not like as firm a massage as normal. Just let our massage therapist know how you’re feeling and they can adjust their technique as needed.
- It’s important to speak to your doctor to discuss concerns or potential risks such as high blood pressure , high risk pregnancy, fluid retention or other issues and then let your massage therapist know if there’s anything they need to be aware of.
- Although many do not wish to share their news until after 12 weeks, it’s important that your therapist is aware of your condition. Don’t worry, our therapists will be discrete and won't share your information with anyone else (a little whisper in our ear is all we need).
- If you usually have your workplace massage on an ergonomic chair you may find that it becomes less comfortable the further you are into your pregnancy. If so, just let us know and we can adjust it or perform the same massage in a normal office chair.
- Some advice suggests avoiding massage during first trimester however, workplace massage (neck and shoulders) is less intrusive and considered relatively safe, assuming it is carried out by a professional. As always, consult with your doctor before participating.
Provided you know what you’re doing and can manage all of the potential issues, onsite massage can provide some very welcome relief for those who are pregnant. If you have any questions about onsite massage while pregnant, or any other questions relating to onsite massage at all, then get in touch with us today. Our team of expert massage professionals can make sure you and your staff are very well looked after!