Answers to commonly asked questions

Is it safe to receive massage and shiatsu during the first trimester?

People usually ask this question because they are worried that shiatsu or massage may increase the risk of miscarriage. There is no evidence to support this fear: and indeed receiving shiatsu may help you relax and feel more connected with the changes that are going on in your body at this time. Women are not told to stop working or avoid stress, so having an hour of space of physical and emotional support, can only be of benefit. However you need to feel comfortable and confident with the practitioner. And some women don’t feel like being touched.

How soon after birth can I have massage or shiatsu?

It’s excellent after birth and there is no specific time at which you can start receiving it. Indeed women who have received shiatsu and massage during their labour (see birth preparation section) may find it helpful to have some of the techniques continued. Shoulders are often tense and work can easily be done here. Of course, care needs to be taken with supporting the healing and not in over stimulating the body. The therapist needs to be alert of any signs of infection and that you are receiving appropriate medical support if needed. However there are many benefits to be gained from supporting your healing process and supporting your adaptation to life with a new baby. Many therapists will come and visit you in your home in the first few months.

I have PGP (Pelvic girdle pain) ? Can I have shiatsu or massage ?

If your therapist is trained in maternity work, they will be aware of the implications of PGP and will adapt their work accordingly. They will position you appropriately, work with special techniques and be able to advise on relevant life style concerns. Bodywork has been shown to be helpful.

More about shiatsu and Pelvic girdle pain / Symphysis Pubis Instability

Can shiatsu help with fertility?

A practitioner can work both with supporting the natural process of fertility for both partners or during assisted reproductive proceedures.

I am overdue. Will shiatsu and massage get my labour started?

Shiatsu helps your body do what it needs to do. If you are not ready to go into labour, it won’t make you go into labour, but it will help support the process of preparing for labour. If you are overdue, it may well help support you to go into labour.

There are various reasons why women are overdue. These days, with pressure of medical induction looming women are often needlessly stressed and stress blocks the process of labour. Anything that helps you feel less stressed will help; going for a walk, listening to some restful music. Shiatsu can help reduce stress by physically relaxing your body. It can also help by including breath awareness work which can help you feel calmer and support a more positive connection with your body and baby.

Many women find it helps them tune in to what is going in their body so they can start to feel less anxious and more trusting. Shiatsu uses some techniques which are similar to massage, and massage itself can be helpful, as it helps relax your muscles and your breath. Shiatsu also works with the energy system of the meridians and points of acupuncture, which can help regulate your hormonal system which is responsible for starting off the process of labour.

Another reason why women may go overdue, is that their baby is not in the best position. Shiatsu work can include techniques which may help to encourage your baby to move.