Can a Massage Chair Induce Labor? What Are the Risks?

If you’re pregnant, you’re likely taking all of the precautions you need to keep both you and the baby safe, but does this mean you have to forego treatments that can relieve all of the aches and pains you’re having?

Many pregnant women have lower back pain, and as soon as your doctor lets you know for sure that it isn’t preterm labor, you might consider getting a massage to relieve that pain. If you’re not ready for regular massages, a good massage chair may do the exact same thing. 

If you’re wondering if these vibrating chairs will induce labor, there is no need to worry because there is no scientific evidence that states this should be a concern.

Although massage chairs are generally not recommended during the first trimester just to be on the safe side. You can relax in a massage chair throughout your pregnancy to get the relief you need.

Of course, we always recommend that you speak to your doctor first before making any changes to your routine whilst pregnant – like getting a massage chair. After all you can never be too careful during your pregnancy, right?

How Do These Massage Chairs Work?

There are many different types of massage chairs, and they are so well-made these days that they will actually knead your muscles instead of just rubbing on them, which means they feel just like a real massage.

The massage chairs of yesteryear made jabbing motions that felt good simply because we didn’t know any better.

Today, people expect more out of massage chairs, so they are more high-tech than they were in the past.

Most massage chairs are made out of a combination of gears and motors, rollers and all sorts of vibrating mechanisms.

can a massage chair induce labor

Kahuna Massage Chair LM6800S

Full-Body Zero Gravity Space Saving L-Track Kahuna Massage Chair Recliner LM6800 with heating therapy

Manufacturers usually use small devices that are weighted and which create a type of vibration that “massages” your muscles for you. These devices are usually rollers, and the rollers can go up and down, side to side, or even move around so they feel more realistic. 

The main types of movement on most massage chairs today include:

  • Gripping – rollers that grasp the muscles and hold before letting go.
  • Kneading – rollers that move in a circular pattern.
  • Rolling – rollers that move up and down.
  • Shiatsu – rollers that press against certain points to relieve pressure.
  • Tapping – rollers that push in and out like a karate chop.

Most people do not purchase their own massage chairs but instead use the ones in the mall or at other public places, which is good because massage chairs can be quite expensive.

If you’re pregnant and decide to use these chairs occasionally, not to worry because even though people used to think that stimulating pressure points on your back can cause you to go into labor, there is simply no scientific evidence to back up this claim.

Does This Apply to All Women?

When you’re pregnant, you can’t be too careful with your health.

As a general rule, you should always check with your doctor before using a massage chair if there is anything out-of-the-norm with your pregnancy. If you have any concerns whatsoever, you should not use a massage chair until you have checked it out with your doctor first.

This is especially important if you decide to purchase any type of massager that fits into your chair and is used for home use, because you’ll likely be using this on a regular basis.

can a massage chair induce labor

Real Relax Massage Chair

The Favor-03 PLUS will provide you with a professional massage experience the Zero-gravity design is used to relax your entire body.

Even if your pregnancy is progressing the way it should be, it is still a good idea to get an “okay” from your doctor before using a massage chair.

Even though these chairs do not induce labor, each pregnancy is different and you’ll want to make sure you are perfectly safe using the chair so that you can enjoy it worry-free.

Checking with your doctor will provide you with the peace of mind you deserve when you’re pregnant and interested in any type of activity that is geared toward relieving pain and helping you relax.

Conclusion

While massage chairs will not cause you to go into labor, certain women should still see their doctor before deciding to enjoy one of them. Once you receive the okay from your doctor, this is certainly not something you’ll regret.

Massage chairs feel good and go a long way to help you relieve lower-back pain and muscle tension in your back and shoulder area, and this alone can make those nine months feel a whole lot shorter.

An avid yoga practitioner, massage enthusiast, and wellness advocate since 2008. From then on, she has helped countless people alleviate muscle pains, tension and stress, to ultimately achieve wellness and balance in life.