How do pregnancy massage and manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) integrate?

Prenatal massage uses traditional massage modalities like Swedish massage, myofascial release, acupressure and more to address the common discomforts of pregnancy with deeper touch / pressure approaches that can be customized for your preference and comfort. Manual lymphatic drainage or MLD integrates perfectly with prenatal massage as it works towards reducing swelling, particularly of the limbs, which is a common symptom in pregnancy. MLD is a more subtle approach using light touch to stretch the skin, where the lymph receptors are located. It is very relaxing and effective, but it does feel different than “regular” massage. We like to clarify this so that we can meet client expectations with our care. 

So, when should I book a prenatal massage versus booking an MLD session if I am pregnant?

We love this question @mamassage_brooklyn because it helps us to assist clients in determining what their goal is for the treatment plan of the massage session and focusing on that goal. 

If you have a goal of focusing on reducing swelling and edema of the legs, arms and face, and/or are experiencing any digestive concerns, you should book an MLD session. 

In this session, your therapist will apply light touch / skin stretch pressure to the face, neck, arms, ribs, and legs to activate the lymph receptors and reduce swelling. We can also include abdominal massage in this session which can help reduce digestive symptoms, foster diaphragmatic breathing and positively impact lymph flow.  THIS SESSION WILL NOT INCLUDE  deeper pressure work to address musculoskeletal pain and discomfort. 

If you have a goal of focusing on reducing pain and discomfort in the muscles from activities of daily living while pregnant - for example, overworked glutes compensating for loss of core muscle strength, tight neck and shoulders from laying on your side or working at a desk, or any type of back pain, you should book a prenatal massage session. 

In this session, your therapist can provide deeper touch methods like myofascial release, trigger point work, Swedish massage, and mobilizations to help reduce muscle tension and pain and restore mobility. 

What if you have multiple goals of addressing both musculoskeletal tension/pain AND reducing swelling?

 In this case it is best to book a prenatal massage, and make it a longer session- at least 75 or 90 minutes so that your therapist can address both goals adequately.

Please note that while ALL of our MT’s can and do provide expert prenatal massage care that can incorporate SOME MLD work, if manual lymphatic drainage work is your focus, you will need to book that type of session with the therapists who are fully certified in MLD. 

On our end to clear up any confusion with booking, we have now added to the service menu a 60 min PRENATAL MLD session. This way when you book this session, we will know that your focus is MLD and you are aware that we will not focus on musculoskeletal work. If you just book an MLD session that is not our prenatal mld session, please put “I’m x weeks pregnant !” In the booking notes so we know how to prepare for your session. 

Want to know more? Check out our Instagram for reels about MLD, prenatal massage and more!