Pregnancy and post-natal massage
Pregnancy massage
Pregnancy massage uses specialised techniques to relieve common discomforts associated with pregnancy while promoting relaxation and preparing the body for birth. The massage is tailored to suit each stage of pregnancy, using safe, supportive positioning such as side-lying or semi-reclined positions with cushions. These adaptations ensure the mother’s safety and maximum comfort, accommodating the growing bump and reducing pressure on sensitive areas like the abdomen.
Pregnancy massage draws on a deep understanding of the musculoskeletal system and how pregnancy can change it, often leading to areas of dysfunction or discomfort. Much like sports or deep tissue treatments, this approach focuses on restoring balance and alleviating tension in affected areas, ensuring the body can adapt more comfortably to the demands of pregnancy.
My personal experience with pregnancy and post-natal massage
When my partner was pregnant, I wanted to do everything I could to support her through the changes her body was going through. I knew that as her body adapted to accommodate our baby, certain areas would come under strain, leading to discomfort. This was what motivated me to undertake additional training in pregnancy and postnatal massage—I wanted to be able to help.
As it turned out, during her third trimester, the shift in her hips and pelvis caused significant lower back and glute pain, while having to sleep on her sides led to persistent shoulder tension. After our little boy was born, like so many new parents, her own wellbeing took a backseat. Following an unplanned abdominal birth (C-section), I was able to use scar realignment massage to aid her recovery. The hours spent holding and feeding our baby also took their toll—her wrists, forearms, and shoulders became sore from the constant strain.
Experiencing all of this firsthand reinforced why I wanted to add this specialism to my offerings—helping others with musculoskeletal issues through pregnancy and beyond. Whether it’s easing discomfort during pregnancy, supporting postnatal recovery, or addressing the physical demands of caring for a newborn, I’m passionate about providing effective treatment at every stage.
Areas typically treated
Pregnancy massage focuses on areas of the body that experience increased strain during pregnancy, such as the lower back, hips, shoulders, and legs. Gentle attention is also given to the feet, hands, and surrounding areas to reduce swelling and improve circulation.
Benefits
Second trimester
Improves circulation and oxygenation of soft tissues, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the foetus.
Aids lymphatic drainage, helping to eliminate toxins and reduce oedema.
Helps maintain balanced blood pressure.
Reduces muscle tension, which often increases as the body changes.
Relieves back pain, leg aches, and joint pain.
Helps prevent varicose veins from developing.
Provides relaxation, reducing stress hormones (cortisol) and increasing feel-good hormones such as serotonin and dopamine.
Third trimester
Relieves headaches and sciatic nerve pain, which become more common in late pregnancy.
Eases nerve compression and joint pain as the body prepares for labour.
Aids the digestive system, helping to manage issues like constipation and haemorrhoids.
Improves relaxation and sleep quality.
Makes the mother more in tune with her body, helping her identify and release tension and prepare for labour.
Post-natal massage
Post-natal massage is a therapeutic intervention aimed at aiding mothers in their recovery from childbirth, facilitating tissue healing, re-establishing physiological balance, and supporting their adaptation to the physical and emotional demands of the post-partum period.
It’s important to seek approval from a healthcare professional before starting post-natal massage. If you had a high-risk pregnancy or an abdominal birth (caesarean), you may need to wait until after your 6-week check-up. For low-risk births, massage may be possible sooner but with care and certain limitations. If in doubt, always consult your doctor or midwife.
Benefits
Supports recovery from labour by improving blood and lymphatic circulation, reducing swelling, and aiding the body in returning to homeostasis.
Helps restore muscle tone in the abdominal and pelvic areas and alleviates soreness in tender areas.
Includes gentle work on abdominal birth (caesarean) scar tissue to reduce adhesions, improve circulation to the site, minimise swelling, and support the healing process.
Provides much-needed relaxation and stress relief, helping to lower anxiety and enhance emotional well-being.
If you have any questions about pregnancy or post-natal massage, feel free to contact me.
Please ensure you have reviewed the list of contraindications for pregnancy massage before booking.