Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy massage is a specially adapted gentle and soothing massage tailored specifically for the mother-to-be. As a term, ‘pregnancy massage’ applies to any hands-on massage treatment for a woman during her pregnancy. It can therefore vary enormously in terms of what it consists of. However, for many women, pregnancy massage benefits include easing aches and pains, aids relaxation and preparation for labour

The massage might be performed in one or more positions during one appointment, such as a supported seated position or lying on a massage table (not the scary ones with holes in... not sure we all have a one size fits all bump shaped hole!), you may be given additional cushions or specially shaped bolsters, to make any position more comfortable.   

Typically, deeper tissue techniques will be avoided, and more gentle techniques will be used during the massage. Therefore, massage therapists are generally gentler when massaging a pregnant client.  During pregnancy, the woman’s body goes through many changes; a pregnancy massage will be mindful of these. One such change is that blood volume during pregnancy increases by as much as 50% in turn causing additional pressure on the lower legs. When massaging legs deep tissue massage will be avoided, instead the use of light, relaxing and long strokes will be used to help circulation.  If you would like your pregnant belly massages, this is possible, but it will again be gentle, using long strokes, designed to make you feel comfortable, womanly and at ease.

Is pregnancy massage safe?

The NHS states that pregnancy massage is one of the safe complementary therapies you can use during pregnancy. If you’re in doubt about whether pregnancy massage is safe for you, speak to your midwife, GP or obstetrician.

When to avoid pregnancy massage:

• massage in your first trimester, especially if you have a history of miscarriages. Whilst there isn’t any evidence to prove massage can trigger miscarriage, it’s a sensible precaution to take
• you’re suffering particularly badly with vomiting or nausea, although some specialist massage therapists may actually be able to help alleviate these symptoms
• you are considered at high-risk of placental abruption or premature labour

Pregnancy massage can:

• soothe aches and pains
• reduce ankle and feet swelling and water retention
• ease sciatic and pelvic pain
• reduce anxiety
• deeply relaxing
• improved sleep