Why It’s B.S. That Your Feet Don’t Get Massaged During a Prenatal Massage.
If you’ve ever had a prenatal massage and been told, “Sorry, I can’t touch your feet,” you might have felt a little short-changed. After all, your feet are carrying extra weight and begging for relief. So why do some massage therapists refuse to work on them? Let’s break down why this myth exists—and why it’s time to put it to rest.
The Myth: Massaging the Feet Can Induce Labor
The biggest reason some massage therapists avoid the feet during pregnancy is the fear that stimulating certain pressure points could induce labor. It’s true that there are acupressure points on the feet linked to the uterus—but here’s the reality: a standard, gentle foot massage is not going to send you into early labor. If it were that easy, we’d see fewer inductions and a lot more spontaneous births happening in nail salons!
Acupressure designed to trigger labor requires precise, sustained pressure on very specific points, often combined with other labor-stimulating techniques over a period of time. Your average prenatal massage therapist giving your tired feet some TLC is not going to cause contractions.
The Reality: Your Feet Need Love More Than Ever
Pregnancy changes everything about how your body carries weight, and your feet take a major hit. Increased blood volume, swelling, and hormonal shifts that loosen your ligaments all contribute to foot pain, tension, and even changes in your arch shape. A proper foot massage can:
Reduce swelling by encouraging lymphatic drainage
Improve circulation in your lower extremities
Ease aches and pains from carrying extra weight
Provide deep relaxation (which is good for you and baby!)
So, Can You Get a Foot Massage During Pregnancy?
Absolutely! A knowledgeable prenatal massage therapist will know how to safely massage your feet. If your therapist refuses outright, they may be erring on the side of caution—but that doesn’t mean it’s necessary.
If you’re booking a prenatal massage and want your feet included, just ask. A skilled therapist should have no problem giving your tired feet some love while keeping both you and baby safe.
Bottom Line
Pregnancy is exhausting, and your feet deserve as much care as the rest of you. The idea that foot massage is too dangerous during pregnancy is outdated and, quite frankly, B.S. So go ahead—find a therapist who understands the science, kick back, and enjoy the relief you deserve!
