Lymphatic drainage in pregnancy: the whys of yeses and nos

Lymphatic drainage is a very useful practice according to which a professional knows which parts of the body to stimulate and which not, to increase venous return on limbs already compromised by the increase in physiological weight in each pregnancy, without affecting maternal-fetal oxygenation.

Massage during pregnancy or prenatal massage is a practice that satisfies the needs of the future mother’s body during the various stages preceding the birth and beyond, in the presence of joint disorders. Its purpose is to increase the functions of the muscles and joints, improve circulation, tone the body and reinvigorate the woman in labor both physically and mentally.

It is a modern practice, whose popularity and diffusion is slowly increasing, as it is extremely pleasant, as well as useful, for the mother and the unborn child. The physical benefits also include the reduction of hormonal and physical stress related to the transformation of the woman’s body during pregnancy. Among other things, it can prevent stretch marks resulting from skin tightening by improving its elasticity by stimulating blood circulation.

Yes or no?

Yes  with specialized personnel, yes once a week and yes by teaching it to the future dad who will use it during labor.

No with untrained personnel, no because if done incorrectly it could stimulate contractions, no because the lymph nodes in some cases, with inexperienced hands, could increase in volume and create imbalances for both the mother and the baby.