beauty/spa treatments

[lotsofcheese]

Just wondering what otheres thinkk about spa treatments during pregnancy?

Are they really as risky as the spas make out eg no massage 1st trimester, very few suitable treatments (even pedicures!)

It's very early days for me (about 5 weeks) do these restrictions just seem a bit excessive, or should I be worrying more?

I was v lucky girl at the weekend as my DP got me vouchers for a Spa Sanctuary. I'm 21 wks so booked in for the Yummy Mummy massage not sure what to expect as heard different reports about how good pg treatments were.

It was AWESOME!!!! I lied on my side for the back massage and flipped over for the other side. They couldn't have been better giving extra pillows for in between knees and bump to make it comfortable. Then on to back for face and legs massage with cold stone treatment to stop bloating and luscious cream on the bump. Table adjustsble so was a bit propped up for that part. Lady said I had a cute bump too which was sweet (when really i just look like a lard arse).

Not sure what ur planning and where and you'll want to check its safe but assuming all that - go for it!!! I was really relaxed and felt great afterwards :)J

Some things are potentially dangerous in first trimester eg anything that raises the core body temp. Massages etc due to some aromatherapy oils that can't be used during pregnancy. I was also told pedicures are out during the first trimester due to reflexology points which can trigger miscarriage but not sure if that's accurate as I don't do reflexology.

To be honest, some treatments are probably safe, but the problem is the spa doesn't want you having a treatment, miscarrying and then blaming them! I went for a spa day in my first trimester, they were willing to do a manicure, and scalp massage with just a carrier oil but no essential oils, and I just went swimming and lazed around with a book the rest of the day. Still relaxing, and no risks of anything going wrong!

Tbh, most restrictions are for insurance purposes. The profit on the massage is just not worth the hassle of potentially getting sued. I don't believe there's a big risk with an uncomplicated pregnancy.

I have had massages in both pregnancies, using plain, unscented oils and avoiding stomach massages.

I have also had mani/pedis pretty much fortnightly and towards the end I always get foot massages to help my "cankles". I just tell the dude that I'm pregnant so they avoid the "points" (even though I dont actually believe that it works- I just like foot massages)

Outside the first trimester you can get most things, or at least an adapted version. The first trimester is when you are statistically most likely to miscarry anyway so they won't do anything that will potentially increase that risk.

Of course at 5 weeks, if you decided you were happy to take the risks then just don't tell them, but personally I wouldn't!

Mama Mio massages (you can get them in some virgin active gym spas, but elsewhere too, I'd imagine) are safe throughout pregnancy. I've had a couple, and they are fabulous. Really looking forward to my next one!

Not sure about the risks but I just waited till after the first trimester then was able to have preg friendly facials and massages. Just ensure the beautician is aware of which oils etc to use, and knows in advance that you are pregnant s they can get the right products ready.

I also recommend finding a spa with a specific pregnancy massage table. These have holes you put your bump and boobs in to so you can lie flat on your front in total comfort. The bump hole has special adjustable strapping to support you. I found this much better than lying on my side on a normal table worrying I would fall off if I fell asleep!

I'm pretty sure the no-pedicure thing is absolute, total rubbish. And it's certainly not advice I've ever heard from a health professional. You think pregnant women haven't been having their feet rubbed for thousands of years?! Yes there are some pressure points, but causing contractions/inducing labour is not the same thing as causing miscarriage. Also there is no evidence that I know of that has shown a link between miscarriage and massage.

Most places won't do treatments before 12 weeks although I am not sure of the reason for this. I had a pregnancy massage at 28 weeks and it was amazing I loved it and I am hoping to get another one in before baby arrives!

My aunty is a massage therapist and I see her for a treatment pretty much every month. I didn't for the first 12 week but after that its all fine, just need different positions (not on your front etc) plus there is a long list of essential oils that shouldn't be used. Personally I think the benefit outweigh any risk (pretty much zero after 12 weeks as far as I'm aware)

Thanks everyone, the reason I'm asking is that I have a spa day this weekend (will only be 4.5wks) so clearly don't want to be making any announcements to the friends I'm having the treatments with.

I thinks it's for a facial, massage & foot treatment but will find out more & see if I can adapt.

Have never heard from a healthcare professional not to have spa treatments either. And can't believe a pedicure is high-risk! Plus a friend of mine who had breast cancer 3 years ago was refused treatment in a spa - utter nonsense!!

I am trying to book something at the moment but they don't seem keen on letting me do anything worth it. Think I might be stuck with facial or manicure. Shame as I have vouchers. I'm 20 weeks.