One phase that is not greatly anticipated during pregnancy—but all women know will happen—is the swelling stage. Some women suffer so much with this discomfort that they have difficulty walking and even doing simple daily tasks.
To help with this almost inevitable discomfort so it doesn’t disrupt your life, there are some recommendations, such as resting with your legs elevated, adequate fluid intake, and also lymphatic drainage during pregnancy.
Main Care Measures
Basic care measures like rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating a low-salt diet are recommended by your obstetrician. However, lymphatic drainage isn’t always a medical recommendation, which can bring up a lot of doubts and fears for expectant mothers about whether it might affect the course of pregnancy.
So we’re here to clear up these doubts and recommend this “helping hand” that will benefit you a lot during this challenging stage, as well as being extremely relaxing and enjoyable.
During the first three months of pregnancy, lymphatic drainage is not recommended, as there are stimulating points on the body that can trigger premature labor. However, after this period, it is completely allowed provided it is performed by a trained professional, such as a massage therapist or physical therapist.
Can It Be Done at Home?
Therefore, it should not be performed at home by people who are not familiar with the proper technique. Lymphatic drainage is a gentle, relaxing massage that does not require strength. It’s recommended for improving blood circulation and reducing swelling in the legs, face, and feet caused by fluid retention, which is especially common at the end of pregnancy.
Explanatory Video
Indications and Contraindications of Lymphatic Drainage During Pregnancy
Lymphatic drainage is recommended for pregnant women, but there are some cases where it is contraindicated, so it’s necessary to talk to your obstetrician and request approval. Women with a high-risk pregnancy, kidney failure, venous thrombosis, high blood pressure or who have problems with the lymphatic system are not suitable candidates due to a higher risk of complications.
The benefits go beyond reducing swelling from pregnancy. It helps to oxygenate tissues, nourishes skin cells, prevents varicose veins, and reduces leg heaviness and fatigue.
Cellulite and Stretch Marks
For women concerned about dreaded cellulite and stretch marks, lymphatic drainage during pregnancy also helps fight these problems, as well as relieving muscle pain caused by so many bodily changes in this period. Another benefit of the procedure is preparing for breastfeeding, since the massage stimulates lactation.
Even after the baby is born, women can continue lymphatic drainage sessions. At this point, besides helping the body de-bloat from fluid retention, it can also be a big tool in helping the body return to its pre-pregnancy shape.
Lymphatic drainage helps speed up metabolism, which allows women to eliminate toxins through urine. Obviously, weight loss won’t rely solely on this procedure—it should be accompanied by a healthy diet and, if possible, regular exercise under the guidance of a nutritionist.
See also: Why Does Swelling Occur During Pregnancy?
Photos: angelica
