Pregnancy Massage

What is pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy massage, also known as prenatal massage, is a specialised treatment adapted to the changing needs of your body during pregnancy. It uses gentle massage techniques, comfortable positioning and carefully adjusted pressure to help you relax and ease everyday muscular tension.

Unlike a regular massage, pregnancy massage takes your stage of pregnancy into account. Your therapist may use supportive cushions and side-lying positions to help keep you comfortable, with attention to areas such as your neck, shoulders, back and hips.

The focus is on relaxation and muscular comfort rather than intensive deep tissue work or treatment of pregnancy-related medical conditions.

What are the benefits of pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy can bring changes in posture, weight distribution and sleep, leaving you feeling tired or uncomfortable. A gentle prenatal massage may help you feel more relaxed and comfortable as your pregnancy progresses.

• Lower back and hip comfort: Gentle massage may help ease everyday muscular tension around your back and hips as your body changes.
• Neck and shoulder relaxation: Soothing techniques can focus on tight muscles around your shoulders and upper back.
• Stress relief: Taking time for a calming massage may help you unwind and feel more relaxed.
• Better rest and relaxation: Some expectant mothers find that massage helps them feel more settled and comfortable, particularly when sleep becomes difficult.
• Personalised comfort: Your therapist can adjust positioning, pressure and treatment areas to suit your individual needs.

Pregnancy massage is intended to support comfort and wellbeing. It isn't a treatment for pregnancy complications, unexplained pain or significant swelling.

Pregnancy massage during each trimester

Your comfort and treatment needs may change throughout pregnancy. Massage techniques and positioning should always be adapted to your individual circumstances, with guidance from your doctor or midwife.

First trimester (weeks 1-12): Early pregnancy can bring fatigue, nausea and changes in how you're feeling. A gentle, relaxation-focused massage may be suitable, but it's important to check with your healthcare provider and confirm suitability with our team before booking.

Second trimester (weeks 13-27): As your body changes, you may notice more tension around your lower back, hips, neck and shoulders. Pregnancy massage can focus on gentle muscular relaxation, using supported positioning and pressure suited to your comfort.

Third trimester (week 28 until birth): During later pregnancy, finding a comfortable resting position can become more challenging. A gentle massage may help you unwind and ease everyday muscle tension. Side-lying positioning with appropriate cushions is generally preferred, avoiding prolonged periods lying flat on your back.

Regardless of your trimester, let your therapist know how many weeks pregnant you are and whether your doctor or midwife has recommended any precautions.

What happens during a pregnancy massage?

Before your treatment, your therapist will discuss your stage of pregnancy, areas of muscular tension, preferred pressure and any relevant health concerns. This helps them understand your comfort needs and whether any techniques or positions should be avoided.

You'll be positioned comfortably with appropriate support, often lying on your side with pillows or cushions. This allows your therapist to work on suitable areas such as your shoulders, back and hips without placing unnecessary pressure on your abdomen.

Your massage will generally involve gentle, flowing strokes and carefully adapted pressure. You can ask for a lighter touch, change position, take a break or stop the treatment whenever you need to.

Is pregnancy massage safe?

Pregnancy massage is generally considered safe during an uncomplicated pregnancy when performed by a therapist appropriately trained in prenatal massage, using suitable techniques and positioning. However, not every massage technique is appropriate during pregnancy, and individual circumstances need to be considered.

Always check with your doctor or midwife before booking, particularly if you have a high-risk pregnancy, high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, a history of blood clots, pregnancy complications or another medical concern.

Your therapist should avoid direct abdominal massage, strong pressure on the legs and positioning that is uncomfortable or inappropriate for your stage of pregnancy.

Sudden swelling, one-sided leg pain, redness or warmth, vaginal bleeding, severe headaches or vision changes require prompt medical assessment rather than massage.