What To Expect From Prenatal Massage

Self-Love

Jan 3

Written By Caitlin

Booking in for a massage is a great way to treat yourself and relieve baby-related aches and pains, but trying something new when you're expecting often comes with a bit of apprehension. We’ve put together a guide on what you need to know before your first prenatal massage, so you can go into the treatment feeling relaxed and informed.

Before You Go To Your Appointment

Take some time to find the right massage therapist for you and your needs. Your midwife, or other healthcare providers, may be able to provide some recommendations to help you start your search. If you already have a favorite masseuse or if there's a location you've been to that you feel comfortable at it's a great idea to start there. Call in to ask if they have training in prenatal massage or can recommend someone who does. If you’ve never had a massage before, look for a reputable therapist that offers a treatment tailored specifically for pregnant women. All prenatal massage therapists should be specifically trained in this specialty.When you arrive for your treatment, or even before you book, your massage therapist will ask you a series of health questions to help them decide if you are eligible for a massage at this stage in your pregnancy and will assess any possible risks. They will also use this information to tailor their techniques to meet your needs. They'll likely ask things like:

Is this is your first baby?
How many weeks into your pregnancy are you?
Have you had any complications?This w

During Your Massage Treatment

Your therapist may use a special pregnancy massage table that allows you to lie face down, or, if your massage is mobile, they may use bolsters to support you so you can lie down safely and comfortably on your side throughout the appointment. Long, slow strokes and kneading movements in tense areas will be used, with special attention paid to the lower back, hips, and legs. If your aching in a particular area let your masseuse know, they should be able to focus on a particular area if it’s bothering you similarly to a normal massage and be able to give you the full body experience.An ideal pregnancy massage can last anywhere between 30 minutes and 2 hours, and it should never be painful. If you do experience discomfort of any kind at any time, let your therapist know immediately so that they can adapt.

After Your Massage

Once your treatment is finished it’s important to stay hydrated to flush out any toxins your body may have released during your massage. Drinking a few glasses of water after your appointment is recommended and will also help with any muscle soreness the next day.Your therapist can recommend some self-massage techniques and stretching sequences, so you can prolong the positive effects of your treatment. Booking regular massages during and following your pregnancy will help to ease your body as it adjusts and recovers after your new arrival.