Why Do Pregnant Women Swell?
Swelling during pregnancy is one of the most common complaints among expecting mothers. It occurs due to a combination of natural physiological factors of pregnancy:
Increased blood volume: During pregnancy, the blood volume in the body increases by up to 50% to meet the baby's needs. This increase in fluids naturally causes more fluid retention in the tissues.
Hormonal changes: Pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone, cause relaxation of blood vessel walls, which promotes fluid leaking into the tissues.
Uterine compression: As the uterus grows, it compresses the blood and lymphatic vessels in the pelvic region, making it harder for venous and lymphatic return from the legs.
Additional weight: The natural weight gain during pregnancy increases pressure on the legs and feet, contributing to swelling.
Swelling is generally most intense in the feet, ankles, and legs, but can also affect the hands and face. It tends to worsen throughout the day, especially if the expecting mother spends a lot of time standing or sitting.
Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage During Pregnancy
Lymphatic drainage is one of the safest and most effective techniques for relieving pregnancy discomfort:
Swelling Relief
The most obvious and immediate benefit. Drainage stimulates the lymphatic system to eliminate excess fluids retained in the tissues, significantly reducing swelling in the legs, feet, and hands. Many pregnant women report visible relief from the very first session.
Improved Circulation
Drainage maneuvers improve both lymphatic and blood circulation. This is especially important during pregnancy, when circulation in the legs can be compromised by the weight of the uterus.
Varicose Vein Prevention
By improving venous return, drainage helps prevent the appearance of varicose veins and spider veins, which are common during pregnancy.
Reduction of Leg Heaviness
The well-known "heavy legs" feeling that many pregnant women experience is significantly alleviated after drainage sessions.
Relaxation and Well-Being
Lymphatic drainage promotes deep relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety — common feelings during pregnancy. The release of endorphins during the session improves mood and sleep quality.
Pain Reduction
Swelling relief reduces tissue pressure, decreasing pain in the legs, feet, back, and joints.
Complication Prevention
By improving circulation and reducing edema, drainage contributes to the prevention of complications such as preeclampsia (when combined with adequate medical monitoring).
When to Start Drainage During Pregnancy?
This is one of the most important points and one that raises many questions:
Lymphatic drainage is recommended from the second trimester (after the 3rd month of pregnancy), ALWAYS with obstetrician clearance.
Why not earlier?
The first trimester is the most delicate period of pregnancy, with the highest risk of complications. Although lymphatic drainage itself does not pose a direct risk, the medical recommendation is to wait through this phase as a precaution.
Recommended Frequency by Trimester
2nd Trimester (months 4 to 6):
3rd Trimester (months 7 to 9):
Final Weeks:
Special Care for Pregnant Women During Drainage
Lymphatic drainage for pregnant women requires specific care that differentiates the service:
Positioning
The expecting mother should be in a side-lying position or semi-seated, never face down. This ensures the mother's comfort and the baby's safety. Pillows and supports are used to ensure the most comfortable position possible.
Adapted Pressure
The pressure of the maneuvers is gentler than in conventional aesthetic drainage. The goal is to stimulate the lymphatic system without causing discomfort.
Areas of Focus
The work is focused on the legs, feet, hands, and back. The abdominal area receives only very gentle maneuvers or is avoided, depending on medical guidance and the gestational period.
Points of Caution
There are reflex points on the body that should be avoided during pregnancy, as they can stimulate uterine contractions. An experienced pregnancy drainage professional knows these points and how to avoid them.
Constant Communication
It is essential that the expecting mother communicates any discomfort during the session. The pressure and maneuvers should be constantly adjusted based on what the client is feeling.
Contraindications During Pregnancy
Lymphatic drainage is contraindicated for pregnant women in the following cases:
Golden rule: Always present your obstetrician's clearance before starting sessions. A responsible professional will request this clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions from Pregnant Women
Can drainage induce early labor?
When performed by a qualified professional, lymphatic drainage does not induce early labor. The risk only exists if specific reflex points are stimulated, which an experienced professional knows how to avoid.
Can I get drainage in the 9th month?
Yes! In fact, the 9th month is when swelling tends to be most intense and drainage is most needed. With your obstetrician's clearance, it is safe to continue until delivery day.
Is drainage painful for pregnant women?
No. The pressure is adapted for the expecting mother's comfort. You should feel pleasant pressure, never pain. If you experience any discomfort, communicate immediately with the professional.
How many sessions are needed?
There is no fixed number. Ideally, maintain regular sessions (weekly) from the second trimester until the end of pregnancy. The frequency can be adjusted based on the level of discomfort.
What about postpartum?
Lymphatic drainage is also excellent postpartum! It helps with body recovery, reduction of residual swelling, and improved overall well-being for the new mother.
Drainage for Pregnant Women in Brasília
In Brasília-DF, Patrícia Silva serves pregnant women with lymphatic drainage at her space in Vicente Pires, with all the structure and care that this special moment deserves. The service is personalized according to the gestational period and the needs of each expecting mother.
She also offers home visits for pregnant women who prefer the comfort of their own home, especially in the final months of pregnancy when travel can be more difficult.
To book your session, contact us via WhatsApp: (61) 99334-7971. Don't forget to have your obstetrician's clearance ready!
