Myofascial release: abdominal massage?

Hi There,

I have been hunting around on the net for some advice and would like to throw it over to the pro's - you!

I am 13 weeks pregnant and recently I have met a wonderful myofascial bodyworker (think deep tissue massage) who is preparing my abdomen and pelvis for pregnancy and birth.

He uses a very strong pressure up under my ribs and to the sides of my abdomen. He releases muscles connecting my pelvis to my back and my hip flexors. He never ventures into central belly area or low into my womb area to release any tensions and blockages.

In theory it sounds great - and I have felt some great improvements in the suppleness of my core, the depth of my breath, and the flexibility in my yoga - but I just want to check whether anyone has had a similar "preparation" for their pregnancy and whether it is safe for baby? Of course, most massages in pregnancy avoid the belly all together, however I am not sure if that is because they are being careful in terms of professional liability, whether it is unsafe to do so, or whether the type of bodywork I am receiving is a highly specialised form of prenatal care?

Anyone with experience... please help!

kferris wrote: Of course, most massages in pregnancy avoid the belly all together, however I am not sure if that is because they are being careful in terms of professional liability, whether it is unsafe to do so, or whether the type of bodywork I am receiving is a highly specialised form of prenatal care? !

I'm not experienced.... But I don't think that avoiding the area is to do with professional liability, rather to do with safety. Even things such as manual rotation of breech babies come with the risk of detached placenta.....surely that risk would be similar in any "deep tissue massage" involving the abdomen.
Each to their own, but I would probably only opt for work to be done by those experienced in working with pregnancy. Too much to lose!