Relief for the Body: Gentle Support During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes. In addition to emotional and hormonal shifts, many pregnant women also experience physical discomfort—particularly fluid retention in the legs. A gentle and targeted lymphatic drainage can often help relieve pressure and enhance overall well-being. We are frequently asked what to watch out for and when caution is necessary. In this blog post, you’ll find answers to your most important questions about lymphatic drainage during pregnancy.

In principle, manual lymphatic drainage is allowed during pregnancy. However, caution is especially important during the first trimester. At this stage, any form of treatment should be more of a light-touch relaxation massage and must be discussed in advance with your treating physician or midwife.

Since many pregnant women suffer from fluid retention or oedema, manual lymphatic drainage can be very beneficial when applied under the right conditions. Many pregnant clients report a noticeable improvement in their symptoms.

Are you generally interested in a pregnancy massage? Have a look here.

Even though gentle massage is often perceived as pleasant, there are specific areas that should not be massaged during pregnancy. These include certain reflex zones on the feet, which could theoretically stimulate contractions, as well as deep tissue areas in the abdominal region. Deep lymphatic drainage—which works more intensively into the tissue—should only be performed by specially trained professionals and must be cleared beforehand by a doctor.
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The ideal time for treatment varies depending on the individual’s symptoms. Fluid retention typically begins to occur from the second trimester onwards. At this stage, treatment is especially helpful and can be repeated regularly. It can also provide relief in the final month of pregnancy, helping to reduce tension and improve general well-being.

Despite its gentle nature, lymphatic drainage is not always suitable. It should be avoided in the case of risks such as thrombosis, acute inflammation, serious cardiovascular conditions, or signs of preterm labor. If symptoms are unclear, medical advice should always be sought first. In general, treatment should always be carried out in consultation with a healthcare professional—especially during the first three months of pregnancy.

During pregnancy, lymphatic drainage can be recommended and prescribed by a gynecologist, general practitioner, or midwife. It is often used as a complementary treatment to alleviate symptoms like oedema or leg pain. Whether health insurance will cover the cost depends on the individual case and diagnosis.

At Origin Massage, you do not need a prescription if you wish to receive treatment. You can submit your receipt to your supplementary health insurance afterwards and, depending on your coverage, receive up to 80% reimbursement. Please check in advance whether your therapist is recognized by your insurance. You can easily do this with our “Find Your Therapist” tool.

Manual lymphatic drainage is a specialised form of therapeutic massage aimed at removing accumulated lymphatic fluid from tissue. Through gentle, rhythmic movements, the lymphatic system is activated and lymph flow through the lymphatic vessels is promoted. Especially during pregnancy, this can help to reduce the sensation of heaviness in the legs and improve mobility. The technique is very relaxing and does not involve pressure or painful manipulation—making it ideal during the sensitive period of pregnancy. You can find more information about lymphatic drainage here.

The reason for water retention during pregnancy can be found in hormonal and physical changes. Your body produces more fluid to ensure that both mother and baby are well nourished. At the same time, the increasing weight of the uterus puts pressure on the venous and lymphatic vessels – especially in the legs. This makes the return flow more difficult and encourages the accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the tissue. The result is swollen feet, heavy legs and sometimes associated pain.

What can you do about swollen legs or water retention?

In addition to lymphatic drainage, there are other options that pregnant women can use in everyday life. You can make sure you elevate your legs regularly and incorporate more exercise by going for a walk or swimming. A balanced, low-salt diet is also helpful. Wearing comfortable clothing that does not hinder lymph flow can also be helpful. A combination of therapy, exercise and the right movement usually achieves the best results. As always, regularity is the key to success.

Pregnancy brings not only physical but also hormonal changes. Every woman reacts differently—some experience more pronounced symptoms such as heavy legs or swelling. That’s why it’s so important to listen to your body and respond with care. Lymphatic drainage can be a gentle way to care for yourself without placing any strain on your unborn child.

Important: Always Consult with a Healthcare Professional

Although lymphatic drainage is generally considered safe, pregnant women should always consult their doctor or midwife before undergoing any treatment—especially during the first trimester. This is particularly important in cases of pre-existing conditions, complications, or uncertainty regarding the safety of the therapy. If you are experiencing symptoms or simply feel unsure, do not hesitate to seek professional advice.

For many pregnancy-related symptoms, manual lymphatic drainage is both soothing and effective. Its gentle and relaxing effect can significantly improve overall well-being, relieve discomfort, and help expectant mothers feel lighter during a physically demanding time. It is especially recommended in the later stages of pregnancy—around the sixth or seventh month—provided no medical contraindications exist.

Although it does not replace medical treatment for serious conditions, it offers a wonderful complementary option for many women. Combined with regular movement, proper nutrition, compression stockings, and adequate rest, manual lymphatic drainage can help pregnant individuals feel more balanced and supported despite all the physical changes.