Pregnancy is a time of joy, anticipation, and, sometimes, discomfort. As your body undergoes profound changes to nurture new life, it's only natural to seek ways to alleviate the aches and pains that may come with it. One question many expectant mothers have is whether it's safe to get a massage during pregnancy. In this post, we'll address your concerns and provide guidance on the safety, timing, and positions for pregnancy massage.

Is It OK to Get a Massage When Pregnant?

The short answer is yes, it is generally safe to get a remedial massage during pregnancy. In fact, pregnancy massage, also known as prenatal massage, is specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of expectant mothers. However, there are some important considerations and precautions to keep in mind. If you are suffering with any of the following conditions - preeclampsia, placenta previa, abdominal pain, bleeding, blood clots, severe swelling, or severe headaches, please consult your midwife or doctor before booking a massage if you have experienced any of these conditions.

Which Month Is Best for Pregnancy Massage?

Pregnancy massage can be beneficial at any stage of pregnancy, during the first trimester, the risk of miscarriage is higher, and some women experience morning sickness and heightened sensitivity, making massage less comfortable. But if you are feeling ok, pregnancy massage is perfectly safe at any stage of pregnancy. 

Is Massage Safe Throughout the Entire Pregnancy?

Massage is generally safe throughout the entire pregnancy, but certain precautions should be observed:

High-Risk Pregnancy: If you have a high-risk pregnancy or specific medical conditions, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before scheduling a massage.

Positioning: As your pregnancy progresses, lying on your back for extended periods can put pressure on the vena cava, a large vein that returns blood to the heart. After the second trimester, it's common to receive massage while lying on your side, and this is how we perform pregnancy massage in our clinic. 

Prenatal Massage Therapist: Seek a qualified and certified prenatal massage therapist who has expertise in working with pregnant clients. They will know how to adapt techniques and positions to your specific needs and the stage of your pregnancy. All our therapists are trained in pregnancy massage, and we perform pregnancy massage every day in our clinic. 

What Position Will I Be in During the Prenatal Massage?

As mentioned earlier, the position during a prenatal massage can vary depending on your comfort and the stage of your pregnancy. Typically, you'll be positioned in one of the following ways:

Side-Lying: This is the most common position during prenatal massage. You'll lie on your side with supportive pillows placed between your knees and a cuddle pillow to ensure your comfort.

Semi-Reclined: Our massage tables are designed to allow you to be in a semi-reclined position, similar to a reclining chair. 

We don’t use a belly pillow in our clinic as it isn’t comfortable for everyone, and can place more strain on the back during later stages of pregnancy. 

Pregnancy Massage in our Point Cook clinic

Prenatal massage can be a safe and highly beneficial way to relieve pregnancy-related discomfort and promote relaxation. Pregnancy massage offers expectant mothers relief from common discomforts like back pain and swelling while promoting relaxation and reducing stress, contributing to a healthier and more comfortable pregnancy journey. The gentle touch of a skilled prenatal massage therapist can provide emotional support and foster a deeper connection with both the changing body and the growing baby.