Busting Prenatal Massage Myths #8: Massage early in pregnancy is dangerous

Myth: Massage myths range from "causing miscarriages" to stopping the placenta from attaching" to "generating blood clots" discourage many from seeking massage at the beginning of a pregnancy.

Where it comes from: No mother wants to do anything "wrong" that could potentially hurt their baby, especially at the beginning, so overcaution is normal. Even doctors will agree that if anything was to go wrong with a pregnancy, it likely will happen in the first trimester, or early on so it is natural to want to "wrap pregnant women in a bubble to protect them". Plus, with today's new technologies, the first trimester can be detected much earlier than ever, leading to more caution and concerns because we know so much more so much sooner, we now worry much more. Additionally, with social media, chat boards, and internet trolls as such as huge part of our lives, it can be difficult to truly understand what information is correct and helpful, versus old wives' tales, and people's own prejudices and mis-education.

Fact: Massage in early pregnancy, done by a properly trained massage therapist, can actually help a new mom feel better and set the tone for a healthy pregnancy. The first trimester can be difficult as far as feeling horrible, achy, and nauseaous, having hormones and emotions bouncing around wildly, and the normal amount of stress and concern that goes into being a good mom and having a healthy pregnancy and child. Massage can help with all of those issues, so allow a little research into a good therapist who can help with those issues, and don't be afraid of massage being harmful.