Bloating is one of the biggest complaints from women during pregnancy. The situation tends to deteriorate as the months go by and presents an inconvenience to moving and sleeping for mothers-to-be. Thus, lymphatic drainage for pregnant women can help reduce swelling and promote a better quality of life in the last months of pregnancy.
Very common in the area of the feet, ankles, legs, arms and face, swelling during pregnancy is a normal reaction of the organism when generating life. This is because a woman’s body, with slower blood flow, sends more water to these areas of the body, causing more fluid volume and swelling. This situation generates limited and unwanted fatigue in the pregnant woman.
Already known for improving circulation and eliminating fluid retention, the practice of drainage has benefits, but it also has contraindications. Keep reading and understanding.
Lymphatic drainage for pregnant women
According to the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, lymphatic drainage is a type of body massage that aims to increase the volume of circulating lymph (liquid that circulates in the lymphatic system) to be transported through the lymphatic vessels and ducts. In this way, the massage is responsible for stimulating blood circulation and eliminating excess fluid through urine. As a result, the drain reduces swelling in the legs, face, arms, and feet.
Despite the presence of smooth, rhythmic and superficial movements, drainage can only be performed by a specialist in the area. Any physical therapist or massage therapist.
Massage is not recommended in the first trimester of pregnancy, as it poses risks to the developing fetus. Thus, from the third month it is already possible to carry out drainage sessions with a prior medical prescription. In this sense, just one session per week already brings beneficial effects for the mother.
Benefit Sharing
- Less swelling
- Improve blood circulation.
- Calms body aches and pains.
- Feeling of relaxation and well-being;
- Reduce the risk of varicose veins.
Contraindications
Women who have problems related to the lymphatic system should not have a drain. For example, uncontrolled hypertension, renal failure, venous thrombosis, and high-risk pregnancy prevent the application of this technique, since they present risks to the health of the mother and child.
In addition, it is necessary to consult a doctor before starting lymphatic drainage sessions.