Can you perform gua sha on the back of the neck during pregnancy?

It is not advisable to perform cupping or kneading on the back of the neck during pregnancy. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Cupping therapy is a traditional Chinese medical treatment that stimulates acupoints on the skin's surface to regulate bodily functions and treat illnesses. However, during pregnancy, due to a series of physiological and metabolic changes in the body, cupping may have certain effects on the health of both the fetus and the pregnant woman. The stimulation of acupoints during cupping can trigger certain physiological responses, potentially leading to uterine contractions. Uterine contractions during pregnancy may increase the risk of premature labor or miscarriage. For high-risk pregnant women—for example, those with complications such as placental abruption or gestational hypertension—cupping might exacerbate existing conditions or lead to complications, thus requiring cautious consideration. In general, stimulating acupoints should be avoided, especially those near the abdomen and lower back. Therefore, to protect the health of both mother and fetus, cupping is generally not recommended during pregnancy.

To ensure the well-being of both the pregnant woman and the fetus, it is recommended to avoid cupping throughout pregnancy. If there are any health concerns or questions, professional medical advice should be sought.