Can pregnant women get a massage?

If there’s ever a time when women need and crave massages, it’s during pregnancy. The body undergoes so many changes over these nine months that a little pampering at a spa can feel almost essential. Between joint pain, back tension, and other common pregnancy discomforts, prenatal massage can provide much-needed relief. Here’s everything you need to know about pregnancy massages and the precautions to keep in mind.

What Is a Prenatal Massage?

Prenatal massage is a specialized massage designed for pregnant women to ease the physical discomforts of pregnancy. It involves gentle strokes, friction, and light pressure applied from bottom to top to improve circulation and reduce swelling. The movements are soft rather than intense, and the mother is usually positioned on her back, side, or seated in a special chair to avoid strain on her belly.

When Can You Get a Prenatal Massage?

While prenatal massage is generally safe for both mother and baby, it is recommended to wait until after the first trimester. During the first three months, the risk of miscarriage is higher, and the fetus is not yet fully stabilized. Between the 4th and 7th month of pregnancy, women can get a massage once or twice a week. However, from the 8th month onward, some spas may refuse service due to concerns about triggering labor.

Where Can You Get a Prenatal Massage?

Many spas offer prenatal massages. When choosing a provider, check if the massage therapist has a certification for pregnancy massage. You can also rely on the reputation of the spa and customer reviews for guidance.

Self-Massage During Pregnancy

If visiting a spa isn't an option, pregnant women can also perform self-massage at home, either as an alternative or in addition to professional treatments. It’s best to use neutral, organic products instead of essential oils, which are not recommended. Self-massage helps relax pressure points, reduce tension, and strengthen the bond between mother and baby—similar to the principles of haptonomy. Partners can also participate in this practice.

What Are the Benefits of Prenatal Massage?

Prenatal massage provides benefits for both mother and baby:

For the mother:

• Relieves muscle pain and tension
• Eases leg cramps
• Reduces pregnancy-related discomfort
• Improves sleep and recovery
• Prepares the pelvis for childbirth
• Helps alleviate nausea

For the baby:
From the fourth month of pregnancy, babies can sense their mother’s emotions, both joy and anxiety. Prenatal massage helps the mother release endorphins (the "feel-good" hormone), which the baby also experiences. It also reduces stress-related hormones, promoting a more relaxed pregnancy.

Choosing the Right Massage Products for Pregnancy

Always check with the massage therapist about the products they use. The safest choices are hypoallergenic, organic plant-based oils without essential oils, as essential oils can cross the placenta and may be toxic to the fetus. Heat sources like hot stones or heating pads should also be avoided, as they can cause excessive muscle relaxation or dilation.

Contraindications for Prenatal Massage

Although generally safe, prenatal massage is not recommended for women experiencing vaginal bleeding, excessive fluid loss, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Women with open wounds, skin inflammation, or varicose veins should also avoid massage.

Shiatsu and Pregnancy

Shiatsu, a Japanese massage technique, is considered safe during pregnancy and may help relieve pregnancy-related discomforts such as pain and fatigue. However, pregnant women should take precautions regarding the intensity of movements. Certain areas, such as the bladder and spleen, and specific energy points that could stimulate contractions or cervical dilation, should be avoided. A shiatsu practitioner does not replace a medical professional.

Prenatal massage can be a wonderful way to relax, relieve tension, and enhance well-being during pregnancy—just be sure to take the necessary precautions !