Can pregnant women undergo gua sha when they have a fever?

Generally speaking, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Whether a pregnant woman can undergo gua sha (scraping therapy) when having a fever depends on her individual health condition. If there are no discomforts or complications, gua sha is usually acceptable; however, if the pregnancy is unstable or the woman's health is compromised, gua sha is not recommended. The details are as follows:

Gua sha is a traditional Chinese medical therapy that involves scraping the skin surface with a specialized tool. It can promote local blood circulation, help dissipate heat more quickly, and relieve symptoms of fever. It also helps ease muscle pain caused by fever. Therefore, for pregnant women without underlying health issues or discomfort, gua sha is generally considered safe.

However, gua sha is typically not advised for pregnant women who have sensitive skin or poor physical health. Since gua sha involves scraping the skin surface, improper technique may lead to skin injuries—particularly concerning given that pregnant women often have more sensitive skin. Moreover, gua sha may accelerate blood circulation, which could potentially stimulate uterine contractions. In women with weak constitutions or high-risk pregnancies, this might increase the risk of miscarriage.

If a pregnant woman experiences any discomfort, she should seek medical attention promptly to avoid delaying treatment. If considering gua sha, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider first to obtain professional guidance.