Is massage safe during pregnancy?

With our method “Deep Muscle Approach,” we have never had any reported negative effects on either mother or baby. At the same time, we pay close attention to the following points:
・We avoid applying focused, strong pressure on acupoints that are said to require caution during pregnancy.
・We work only in positions that do not put strain on the mother’s body. If you feel unsure, we recommend obtaining approval from your doctor before booking.

Can I receive treatment if I’m not yet in the stable phase?

Ideally, we would like you to be able to receive massage whenever your body feels uncomfortable, even if you are not yet in the stable phase. There are no confirmed data or reports proving that “massage causes miscarriage.”
However, we understand that if a miscarriage were to occur, many people might emotionally associate it with having received massage. For this reason, as a rule, we limit this course to guests in the stable phase of pregnancy.
At Nagomi Sakuradai, all female staff have experienced childbirth themselves, so as an exception, guests who are not yet in the stable phase may also be accepted there.

Are there cases in which I cannot receive treatment?

As a general rule, we cannot provide treatment in the following cases: ・You have been instructed by your doctor to rest or remain on bed rest.
・You have had threatened preterm labor or miscarriage within the last two weeks, or are suspected of such.
・You have pregnancy-induced hypertension, gestational diabetes, placenta previa, deep vein thrombosis, monochorionic multiple pregnancy, or other illnesses currently under treatment.

Does massage affect the baby?

It is said that the mother’s emotional state directly affects the baby. By relieving uncomfortable symptoms through massage, we hope to ease the mother’s stress and thereby support the baby’s healthy development.
To avoid putting pressure on the abdomen and baby, all treatments are performed only in side-lying and supine positions.

I heard there are acupoints that should not be pressed during pregnancy. Is it really safe?

There are several acupoints (such as Hegu, Jianjing, Sanyinjiao, Taichong, and Yongquan) that are said to possibly induce uterine contractions, labor, or miscarriage if strongly pressed at a single point during pregnancy.
These points can be both “risky” and also “good for smooth delivery,” and there are no definitive medical data proving that pressing them will cause miscarriage.
However, because the impact is not fully understood, we take extra care and avoid applying strong, focused pressure on these areas.

I cannot lie on my back for long. Can I still receive treatment?

Basically, we use side-lying as the main position and add some supine work only within a comfortable range. If lying on your back is difficult, it is also possible to receive treatment entirely in a side-lying position. Please let your therapist know during the session.

I don’t want my pelvis area to be touched. Is that possible?

Before starting the session, we always ask about your physical condition and which areas you would like us to focus on. At the same time, you can tell us which areas you do not want us to touch. If you prefer that we avoid the pelvis area or any other region, please mention it to your therapist.

Will a female therapist always perform maternity treatments?

As with other treatments, maternity sessions are usually provided by both male and female therapists. If you prefer a female therapist, please book with a “female staff request” when making your reservation.

Is massage also okay after giving birth?

Yes, you can receive massage not only during pregnancy but also after childbirth. If your breasts are producing milk or feel painful and tight, we can perform the session only in side-lying and supine positions. Please feel free to consult your therapist about your situation.