Pregnancy and postpartum are filled with big changes—physically, emotionally, and everything in between. While these seasons of life are beautiful in many ways, they can also come with some less-than-glamorous symptoms like swelling, heaviness, and lingering puffiness that just won’t go away.
If you’re navigating pregnancy or recovering after childbirth, you might be surprised to hear that lymphatic therapy is becoming a go-to support option for many women in San Jose and Los Gatos. And it’s not just about aesthetics—though feeling more like yourself certainly doesn’t hurt.
Let’s talk about what lymphatic therapy is, how it supports your body during this unique time, and why it’s so important to choose a credentialed medical provider for this kind of care.
Your lymphatic system is like your body’s natural drainage network. It moves fluid (called lymph) through vessels, nodes, and tissues to help clear out waste, reduce inflammation, and keep your immune system running smoothly. It doesn’t have a central pump like the heart, so it relies on things like movement, breathing, and muscle contractions to keep it flowing.
During pregnancy, your body’s fluid volume increases significantly to support the growing baby. Hormonal shifts and the physical pressure from your uterus can slow lymphatic circulation, making it harder for your body to move fluid efficiently. The result? Swelling—especially in the feet, legs, hands, and face.
After birth, your body works to reset, flush out excess fluid, and rebalance itself. But for many women, that process takes time. Lymphatic therapy can help support and speed up that transition.
Lymphatic therapy (sometimes called manual lymphatic drainage) is a specialized, gentle technique that helps stimulate the movement of lymph fluid through the body. It’s not a traditional massage. It uses light, rhythmic strokes to support circulation and help your body naturally reduce swelling, improve immune function, and promote healing.
At InHands Post Operative Recovery, every lymphatic session is performed by licensed occupational therapists and registered nurses certified in medical lymphatic massage. This means you're getting true clinical care—not just a wellness add-on.
There’s a big difference between a spa-style massage labeled as “lymphatic” and one that’s rooted in medical knowledge. When you’re pregnant or recovering after birth, your body is in a delicate and dynamic state. Working with someone who understands anatomy, blood flow, hormone changes, surgical healing (like C-sections), and lactation makes a big difference.
Here’s what sets our care apart at InHands:
We’ve had the privilege of working with expectant mothers, new moms recovering from C-sections or vaginal deliveries, and even clients managing postpartum complications like mastitis, poor circulation, or post-surgical swelling.
Every woman’s experience is different, but here are some of the most common things we hear from our clients in San Jose and Los Gatos:
For many women, this starts in the second or third trimester and can feel really uncomfortable. Lymphatic therapy helps reduce that buildup by encouraging fluid movement and decreasing pressure on tissues.
Hormones can lead to water retention in surprising places. We use gentle, targeted techniques to reduce facial puffiness, which helps many women feel more refreshed.
After a C-section (or any surgery), inflammation and fluid retention are part of the healing process. Medical lymphatic therapy helps clear excess fluid and improve scar healing without disturbing incisions.
Many new moms experience engorgement or blocked ducts. While lymphatic therapy is not a replacement for medical care, it can support drainage and reduce tenderness—especially when paired with lactation support.
It’s common to feel foggy, puffy, or disconnected from your body after birth. Lymphatic therapy offers a safe, relaxing way to reset, restore circulation, and feel more grounded in your body again.
Absolutely—but only when done by someone who understands how to adapt the technique to your body’s current needs.
For pregnant clients, our providers avoid pressure points that could stimulate uterine contractions and tailor each session based on your trimester and health history. After delivery, we make adjustments based on your healing progress, whether you’ve had stitches, a C-section, or complications during birth.
Many of our San Jose and Los Gatos clients are referred by their OB-GYNs, pelvic floor therapists, or doulas. It’s a gentle, effective therapy that’s growing in popularity for a reason—it works.
Some women begin lymphatic therapy in their second or third trimester to manage swelling and discomfort. Others start postpartum—often within the first few weeks—to support healing, reduce water retention, and promote overall recovery.
If you’ve had a C-section, we recommend waiting until your doctor clears you for touch therapy around the incision site (usually 2–4 weeks). We’re happy to speak with your provider if you need guidance on timing.
At InHands, we understand how personal this time is. You’re not just a patient—you’re a mother, a partner, and a woman moving through one of life’s biggest transitions. Our goal is to provide thoughtful, medically sound care in an environment that feels calm, welcoming, and supportive.
We’re proud to serve families throughout San Jose, Los Gatos, and the South Bay with lymphatic therapy that’s grounded in science, safety, and compassion.
Whether you’re prepping for baby or navigating those unpredictable postpartum weeks, lymphatic therapy offers a gentle, effective way to support your body. From reducing swelling to helping you feel more connected to yourself again, it’s one of the most overlooked tools for maternal wellness—and one that many women wish they’d discovered sooner.
If you're curious about whether lymphatic therapy is right for you, we’d love to talk. Our team is here to support you with clinical knowledge, kind hands, and care that’s tailored to where you are in your journey.
Call us or schedule online—we’re here when you’re ready.
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