With the numerous benefits of prenatal massage come specific precautions. Research suggests the expectant mother should wait until her second trimester before receiving massage. During this time, the woman’s body is undergoing immense hormonal changes to protect and nourish the fetus. Once the primary care physician has approved massage, massage should be administered on a weekly, or at least monthly basis. A preventive approach is best although even a periodic massage will be helpful. Some of the other precautions include avoiding massage when there is decreased fetal movement in the previous 24 hours, morning sickness, abdominal pain, or vaginal bleeding. In addition, anyone with a fever, diagnosis of DVT (deep venous thrombosis), and recently broken bones or torn ligaments should never be massaged.