[WombToBloom]

My friends and I are going to a spa for a weekend soon. I just found out that I am pregnant and now I am unsure if I should cancel the trip. Are massages, facials and other spa treatments allowed during pregnancy?

[WombToBloom]

There are some treatments you should avoid in pregnancy but, if you are going to a full service spa, there will plenty left for you to enjoy.

While you're in your first trimester, you probably want to skip full body massage and body wraps. But you can still have a great neck and shoulder massage and a fabulous facial. Go ahead and get a mani/pedi with all of the spa options. Stay away from the sauna, steam room and hot tubs. None of these are recommended for pregnant women at any stage. You don't want to overheat.

Definitely get some good, relaxing pool time in. And, unless your doctor has indicated otherwise, join in on a yoga class too.

Later on in your pregnancy you can get a great pregnancy massage - just make sure that the therapist is specifically qualified for your needs as a pregnant woman.

[Leticia Wilson]

Hi ,
First of all...Congratulations on your new pregnancy! I am a photographer and live in Wa. State, however, I am also a licensed Nail Technician in Texas, I haven't gotten my Wa. License yet. But when we were trained at pedicure massages, we were told to stay away from massaging the upper back part of the heel (right next to the ankle bone and near to the achilles heel) of a pregnant woman, because it could cause them to go into premature labor, I don't know how much truth there is to that but, I know that some reflexologists say the same thing. So just in case it is true. I wanted you to be aware of that.

Have fun on your Girls Spa Weekend ,

Leticia Wilson
Leticia Wilson Photography

[WombToBloom]

Excellent info and it's so nice to see insight from professionals who have "been there".

[Littlemummy]

I was at a spa recently, they wouldn't let me have a swedish massage as I thought I may be pregnant. I was allowed to have a facial or manicure. It seems that the spa staff will guide you on what treatments you can have at what stage.

[massagefc]

Originally Posted by WombToBloom

My friends and I are going to a spa for a weekend soon. I just found out that I am pregnant and now I am unsure if I should cancel the trip. Are massages, facials and other spa treatments allowed during pregnancy?

Congratulations! What a wonderful surprise. What Leticia said is somewhat true. There are specific acupuncture points in which you want to stay away from, however they must be held for 15 sec or longer multiple times. If you're worried, simply ask the technician to not massage your ankles.

Some spas do not feel comfortable accepting a newly pregnant mommy-to-be within the first trimester, so simply ask. Although it is safe for some spa treatments, It's important that you let the spa know that you are pregnant. The reason is simply because when a trained professional knows you are pregnant they can then customize the treatment to you excluding products unsafe for you. Also, with massage it is important you get a Certified Prenatal Massage Therapist, not just one who "does it all the time" or "knows pregnancy massage". This type of professional will understand the changes your body is making and will be able to adjust to and incorporate techniques to encourage a good pregnancy. This is also great for pain management later on. They also, and most importantly, will know the area of caution and how to work around it.

Nowadays woman's clinics are branching out to offer spa treatments in a spa atmosphere from the same location. These are great because they are ran under the supervision of a OBGYN or other doctor so you know they will be a safe haven.

Alesha - CPMT, Doula
Essential Living