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Where Not to Massage a Pregnant Woman: Your Safety Guide

Safe prenatal massage positioning for pregnant woman.

The thought of a soothing massage to ease pregnancy-related back pain can be incredibly tempting. While the intention is wonderful, it’s vital that the practice is guided by professional knowledge. Your body is more sensitive, and your circulatory system is working overtime, making certain areas and techniques off-limits. This is why choosing a certified prenatal therapist is non-negotiable. They have the advanced training to navigate your body’s changes safely. To help you feel confident and informed, we’re breaking down the fundamentals of prenatal massage safety. We’ll cover the key areas to avoid, explaining exactly where not to massage a pregnant woman to ensure your experience is purely therapeutic and restorative.

Key Takeaways

  • Partner with Professionals for Peace of Mind: Before booking, get the green light from your doctor. Then, ensure your massage is performed by a therapist specifically certified in prenatal care—their advanced training is essential for your safety and comfort.
  • Expect Key Differences from a Standard Massage: A safe prenatal massage avoids deep pressure on the legs and back, steers clear of specific pressure points on the ankles and hands, and uses a supportive side-lying position with pillows instead of having you lie on your back or stomach.
  • You Are Always in Control of Your Session: Your feedback is vital. Communicate openly about your health history beforehand, and don’t hesitate to speak up if you feel any discomfort during the massage. A great therapist will adjust immediately to keep you comfortable.

What Is a Prenatal Massage?

A prenatal massage is a wonderful way to find relief and relaxation during pregnancy, but it’s much more than just a standard massage. It’s a specialized, therapeutic practice tailored specifically to the anatomical changes and needs of a pregnant body. Think of it as a supportive therapy designed to ease the unique discomforts that come with carrying a child. At Nola Bliss, our prenatal massages are performed by therapists with advanced training who understand how to provide comfort and care safely. The goal is to help you feel your best as your body goes through this incredible transformation.

How Prenatal Massage Is Different

Unlike a deep tissue massage that works intensely into the muscles, a prenatal massage uses very light pressure, much like a gentle Swedish massage. This is a key safety measure. Your therapist will intentionally avoid deep pressure on certain areas, particularly your abdomen, legs, and ankles. The reason for this caution is to prevent any risk of dislodging blood clots, as pregnancy can increase this possibility. The entire session is adapted to support your body and your baby, focusing on gentle, soothing strokes that relieve tension without putting stress on sensitive areas. It’s a completely different approach designed for your peace of mind.

When Is It Safe to Start?

Many people wonder when they can begin enjoying the benefits of prenatal massage. The general consensus among health professionals is that it’s best to wait until after the first trimester. While there’s very little proof that a massage can cause a miscarriage, getting a massage during the first three months might make morning sickness worse. Most therapists and doctors recommend waiting until the second trimester to begin, simply as a precaution and to ensure you have the most comfortable and enjoyable experience possible. Once you’re past those first 13 weeks, a regular massage can become a healthy and supportive part of your pregnancy routine.

Find a Qualified Prenatal Massage Therapist

This is non-negotiable: always choose a professionally trained and certified prenatal massage therapist. This isn’t the time for a standard massage from a general practitioner. A certified therapist has specialized knowledge of how to position your body safely, which techniques to use, and most importantly, which areas and pressure points to avoid. They understand the physiological changes you’re experiencing and can adapt the massage accordingly. Our team of licensed massage therapists at Nola Bliss has the dedicated training needed to provide a safe, effective, and nurturing experience, so you can relax knowing you’re in expert hands.

Debunking Common Pregnancy Massage Myths

There’s a lot of misinformation out there that can cause unnecessary worry. One of the most persistent myths is that getting a massage in the first trimester can cause a miscarriage. Let’s set the record straight: there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Similarly, the idea that a properly performed massage can harm the baby is also unfounded. When performed by a certified professional who understands prenatal care, massage is a safe and beneficial therapy. The precautions that are in place are there to ensure the mother’s utmost comfort and safety, not because massage itself is inherently risky for the baby.

Key Areas to Avoid During a Prenatal Massage

A prenatal massage is designed to be a safe haven of comfort, but its effectiveness hinges on knowing what to do—and what not to do. While your body is doing the incredible work of growing a new life, it becomes more sensitive. A properly trained therapist understands the anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and knows which areas require a lighter touch or should be avoided completely. This ensures the entire experience is focused on your safety and relaxation, allowing you to fully let go and enjoy the relief you deserve.

The Abdomen

It might seem obvious, but it’s worth stating clearly: your abdomen is off-limits for any kind of deep massage work. While a therapist might use a very light, connecting stroke over your belly (which can feel lovely!), applying direct or deep pressure is never recommended. This is to protect both you and your baby. Deep abdominal massage can be uncomfortable and carries a risk of disrupting the placenta. A professional prenatal massage therapist will always treat this area with the utmost care, focusing instead on the parts of your body carrying the extra tension, like your back, hips, and shoulders.

The Lower Back

Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints during pregnancy, and massage can offer incredible relief. However, this is an area where technique matters immensely. While gentle pressure can soothe aching muscles, deep tissue work directly on the lower back should be avoided. During pregnancy, your body’s hormones can cause ligaments to become more lax, and deep pressure could be uncomfortable or destabilizing. More importantly, there’s a slight risk that deep pressure could dislodge a blood clot. A skilled therapist will use supportive side-lying positions and plenty of pillows to address back pain safely with broad, gentle strokes that ease tension without introducing risk.

Specific Pressure Points

You may have heard that certain pressure points can induce labor, and there’s truth to that. Acupressure has been used for centuries, and specific points on the body are known to stimulate uterine contractions. Key areas to avoid include points around the ankles (like Spleen 6) and the fleshy webbing between the thumb and index finger (the Hegu or LI4 point). A certified prenatal massage therapist is extensively trained to identify and avoid these specific points, especially in the earlier stages of pregnancy. Their expertise ensures your massage provides pure relaxation and pain relief without sending any unintended signals to your body.

Legs and Ankles

Swollen feet and achy legs are another hallmark of pregnancy, but this is another area that requires a special approach. Your blood volume increases significantly during pregnancy, which can slow circulation in your legs and slightly increase the risk of blood clots. Because of this, deep, intense pressure on the calf muscles or inner thigh is avoided, as it could potentially dislodge a clot. This doesn’t mean your legs get ignored! Instead, your therapist will use light, sweeping strokes that move upward toward the heart. This technique helps reduce swelling and improve circulation safely, bringing much-needed relief to tired legs.

Wrists and Hands

Massaging the hands and wrists can feel wonderful, especially if you’re experiencing pregnancy-related carpal tunnel symptoms. However, as mentioned earlier, there is a specific pressure point located in the fleshy area between the thumb and index finger that needs to be avoided. This point, known as Hegu (LI4), is strongly associated with inducing contractions and is a major no-go zone during a prenatal massage. A knowledgeable therapist can still provide relief to your hands and forearms by carefully working around this specific point, ensuring you get all the benefits without any of the risks.

Why Are These Areas Avoided?

When you get a prenatal massage, you might notice your therapist skillfully avoids certain spots. This isn’t random; it’s a deliberate practice rooted in a deep understanding of how the body changes during pregnancy. A properly trained therapist knows that the goal is to provide relief and comfort while prioritizing the safety of you and your baby above all else.

The reasons for avoiding these areas are based on protecting you from a few specific risks. These include preventing any undue stress on the body that could lead to complications, managing changes in your circulatory system, and respecting the heightened sensitivity of certain pressure points. Think of it as a specialized roadmap your therapist follows to ensure your massage is nothing but beneficial. Every adjustment, from the pressure they use to the areas they focus on, is designed to support your body through this incredible transformation. It’s all part of a safe, professional, and deeply relaxing massage service.

Reducing the Risk of Early Labor

One of the most common concerns expectant mothers have is whether a massage could accidentally induce labor. While there isn’t strong scientific proof that a typical massage can cause contractions, certain pressure points on the body are traditionally believed to stimulate the uterus. These points are often located around the ankles, wrists, and the fleshy area between the thumb and forefinger. As a precaution, a certified prenatal massage therapist will intentionally avoid applying deep, sustained pressure to these specific spots. This careful approach ensures your body remains relaxed and free from any signals that could potentially encourage premature labor, allowing you to fully unwind with peace of mind.

Addressing Blood Clot Risks

During pregnancy, your body produces significantly more blood to support your growing baby. While amazing, this increase in blood volume can slow down circulation, particularly in your legs. This change slightly raises the risk of developing blood clots, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Because of this, applying deep, intense pressure to the legs is not recommended during a prenatal massage, as it could potentially dislodge a clot. Instead, your therapist will use long, gentle, and sweeping strokes. This technique helps promote healthy circulation and relieve swelling without posing any risk, ensuring your legs get the soothing attention they need safely.

Understanding Pressure Point Sensitivity

Beyond the points associated with labor, your body has numerous pressure points that become more sensitive during pregnancy. For example, a well-known point called Hegu, located in the webbing between your thumb and index finger, is strictly avoided due to its connection to uterine contractions. Other areas may simply feel uncomfortable or overly intense as your body changes. A professional therapist is trained to recognize these sensitive zones and will adjust their technique accordingly. Their expertise ensures that the massage feels good and supportive, without triggering any discomfort or unwanted physical responses. This is where the skill of a highly trained therapist truly shines.

Supporting Healthy Circulation

Proper circulation is vital during pregnancy, and a prenatal massage is a wonderful way to support it—when done correctly. One of the most important safety measures is positioning. After the first trimester, lying flat on your back is avoided because the weight of the uterus can press on a major blood vessel, the vena cava, reducing blood flow to you and your baby. To prevent this, your therapist will use a system of pillows and bolsters to position you comfortably and safely on your side. This side-lying position takes all the pressure off your back and abdomen while allowing your therapist full access to provide a relaxing and effective massage.

How Pregnancy Changes Your Sensitivity

Pregnancy transforms your body in countless ways. A hormone called relaxin works to loosen your ligaments and joints in preparation for childbirth, which can make you feel less stable and more prone to aches. Your blood volume increases, your organs shift to make room for the baby, and your overall sensitivity to touch can change from one day to the next. Because every pregnancy is unique, what feels wonderful to one person might be uncomfortable for another. This is why clear communication with your therapist is so important. A great massage therapist will listen to your body and your feedback, customizing the session to meet your specific needs.

Safe Positions and Techniques for Prenatal Massage

Knowing which areas to avoid is only half the story. The techniques your therapist uses are just as crucial for a safe and relaxing experience. A properly trained prenatal massage therapist understands how to adapt their methods to support your changing body. From the way you lie on the table to the amount of pressure used, every detail is considered to ensure the well-being of both you and your baby. This isn’t just a standard massage with a few modifications; it’s a specialized practice that requires a deep understanding of pregnancy-related physiological changes. The goal is to alleviate discomfort, reduce stress, and promote overall wellness in a way that honors and protects this special time.

At Nola Bliss, our prenatal massage is specifically designed to address the unique needs of expecting mothers. We focus on creating a secure and soothing environment where you can truly let go and find relief. Our therapists are not only licensed but have dedicated training in prenatal care, so you can rest assured you’re in expert hands. It’s all about using the right techniques to deliver comfort without compromise, helping you feel your best as you prepare for your new arrival.

The Best Positions for Comfort and Safety

Forget about lying on your stomach or flat on your back. During a prenatal massage, you’ll be positioned for optimal safety and comfort. The best and safest positions are lying on your side, sitting upright, or being in a semi-reclining posture. Lying on your side is the most common position, as it prevents any pressure on your abdomen and major blood vessels. After 20 weeks, it’s especially important to avoid lying flat on your back, as the weight of the uterus can compress the vena cava, a major vein that carries blood to the heart. This can reduce blood flow to you and your baby, so a skilled therapist will never use this position in the later stages of pregnancy.

Finding the Right Amount of Pressure

While you might love a deep tissue massage when you’re not pregnant, pregnancy calls for a gentler touch. The goal is to use moderate pressure that soothes sore muscles without being too intense. Your body is more sensitive, and your circulation is working overtime, so a lighter hand is key. A certified prenatal therapist knows how to apply firm, therapeutic pressure to relieve common pregnancy aches in your back, hips, and shoulders. They will avoid the deep, targeted pressure characteristic of a Deep Tissue or Swedish Massage on sensitive areas, ensuring the entire experience is both effective and completely safe for your baby.

Using Pillows and Bolsters for Support

Pillows are a pregnant person’s best friend, and that’s especially true during a massage. To keep you stable and comfortable while you’re lying on your side, your therapist will use a system of specialized pillows and bolsters. These props are strategically placed to support your growing belly, cushion your knees, and keep your spine in a neutral, comfortable alignment. This setup not only feels amazing but also prevents any strain on your lower back and hip joints. Our experienced therapists are experts at creating a supportive nest that allows you to fully relax, knowing your body is perfectly positioned and secure.

Keeping the Temperature Just Right

Maintaining a stable body temperature is important during pregnancy, which is why some massage enhancements are off-limits. You should always avoid treatments that can raise your core body temperature, such as hot stone massages, saunas, or steam rooms. Overheating can be risky for the developing baby. For this reason, we don’t incorporate our popular Hot Himalayan Salt Stones into prenatal sessions. Your therapist will ensure the room is at a comfortable temperature and will only use warming lotions or oils that are safe for pregnancy, so you can enjoy a cozy and relaxing massage without any worry.

How Your Massage Changes by Trimester

As your body changes throughout your pregnancy, your massage needs will change, too. A skilled therapist knows how to adapt their techniques for each stage, ensuring you get the most comfortable and beneficial experience. From your positioning on the table to the amount of pressure used, every detail is adjusted to support you and your growing baby from the first month to the last.

Your First Trimester

The first trimester can be a tricky time. While massage is generally considered safe, some women prefer to wait until the second trimester, especially if they’re dealing with morning sickness, as massage can sometimes intensify nausea. The most important thing is to communicate. Always let your therapist know you’re pregnant, even if it’s early on. This allows them to make the right adjustments from the start. At Nola Bliss, our therapists are highly experienced in prenatal massage and will work with you and your doctor’s recommendations to find the perfect approach for you.

Your Second Trimester

Many people consider the second trimester the sweet spot for prenatal massage. Morning sickness has often faded, and you’re starting to feel the physical effects of your growing belly. This is when positioning becomes key. To ensure healthy blood flow for you and the baby, you’ll be comfortably positioned on your side with plenty of pillows and bolsters for support. Lying on your side prevents pressure on a major vein called the vena cava. This position allows your therapist to effectively address aches in your hips, lower back, and shoulders while keeping you completely safe and relaxed.

Your Third Trimester

As you enter the home stretch, massage can be a wonderful tool for easing the aches and swelling that come with late-stage pregnancy. Side-lying positioning remains the safest option, and it’s crucial to avoid lying flat on your back. The weight of the baby can compress blood vessels and reduce blood flow. Your therapist will also use gentle to medium pressure, avoiding deep work on your legs and certain pressure points to prevent any risk of blood clots or premature labor. The focus is on comfort, circulation, and relieving tension as your body prepares for birth.

Special Considerations for High-Risk Pregnancies

Your safety is always the top priority. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, it is essential to speak with your doctor before booking a massage. Conditions like preeclampsia, high blood pressure, a history of blood clots, or a risk of preterm labor may mean that massage is not recommended. A doctor’s guidance is the first and most important step. Once you have clearance, be sure to share your complete health history with your therapist. This open communication ensures that your massage therapist can provide a session that is not only relaxing but also completely safe for you and your baby.

Know the Warning Signs

A prenatal massage should be a relaxing and restorative experience, but your body is the ultimate authority on what feels right. During pregnancy, you’re more in tune with your body’s signals than ever, and it’s crucial to listen to them. While our certified therapists are experts in prenatal care, your feedback is the most important part of ensuring a safe and comfortable session. Think of it as a partnership: your therapist brings the expertise, and you bring the awareness of how your body is responding in the moment.

Knowing what to look for can help you relax completely, confident that you can identify and communicate any issues that might arise. Discomfort isn’t something to push through; it’s a signal to adjust. From a slight feeling of nausea to a specific spot that feels tender, your body will tell you what it needs. The key is to feel empowered to speak up. A professional massage therapist will always appreciate your honesty and will immediately adapt the technique, pressure, or positioning to restore your comfort. Your safety and well-being are the top priorities from the moment you walk through our doors.

Listen to Your Body: Signs of Discomfort

Your body is your best guide during a prenatal massage. While your therapist is trained to avoid sensitive areas, only you know how the pressure and movements truly feel. It’s essential to communicate openly about your comfort level from start to finish. If a certain stroke feels too intense, a position feels awkward, or you simply feel “off,” please let us know.

Pay attention to signals like sharp pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or a sudden wave of nausea. These are clear signs that something needs to change. A professional therapist will check in with you, but don’t wait to be asked. Your feedback is not an interruption; it’s a vital part of a successful therapeutic massage.

When to Stop the Massage

You are always in control of your session. If at any point the massage feels painful or uncomfortable, you have every right to ask the therapist to stop. Never feel like you need to “tough it out.” This is especially important during pregnancy, when your body is already working so hard. Your session should reduce stress, not add to it.

Clear reasons to stop the massage immediately include feeling nauseous or starting to vomit. If you experience any sharp, shooting pains or sudden cramping, it’s time to end the session. It’s that simple. Our therapists providing prenatal massage are trained to respond immediately and prioritize your well-being, so you can feel confident speaking up without hesitation.

What to Do If You Feel Unwell

If you start to feel unwell during your massage, the first step is to tell your therapist. They can help you sit up, get you some water, and ensure you feel steady. If the feeling passes, you can decide together whether to continue. However, some symptoms warrant a conversation with your doctor.

Certain health conditions require caution. If you have a history of blood clots, preeclampsia, high blood pressure, or other pregnancy complications, your doctor might advise against massage. It’s always best to get medical clearance before your appointment. Our team of highly trained therapists is knowledgeable about these contraindications and will always proceed with the utmost care based on the health history you provide.

How to Feel Your Best After Your Massage

A great prenatal massage should leave you feeling lighter, calmer, and more comfortable in your own skin. The goal is to ease the aches in your back and hips, reduce swelling in your limbs, and give you a much-needed mental break. To extend these benefits, take it easy for a little while after your session.

Hydration is key, so be sure to drink plenty of water to help your body process the massage. Try to schedule your appointment at a time when you can go home and relax afterward, rather than rushing off to your next task. By listening to your body, communicating with your therapist, and practicing gentle self-care, you can make your prenatal massage a truly blissful and beneficial part of your pregnancy journey.

Your Pre-Massage Safety Checklist

A safe and relaxing prenatal massage is all about preparation and communication. Think of it as a partnership between you, your doctor, and your massage therapist. Before you even book your appointment, running through a quick mental checklist can make all the difference, ensuring your experience is nothing but beneficial for you and your baby. This isn’t about adding more to your to-do list; it’s about giving you the peace of mind to fully let go and enjoy the relief you deserve.

Taking these simple, proactive steps helps your therapist provide the best possible care. When you walk into your session feeling informed and prepared, you can focus on what truly matters: melting away the aches and tension of pregnancy. From getting your doctor’s approval to knowing what to tell your therapist, this checklist covers the essential steps for a safe, comfortable, and deeply restorative massage.

Talk to Your Doctor First

Before you book a prenatal massage, the most important first step is to have a quick chat with your doctor or midwife. Think of it as getting an official hall pass to relax. While prenatal massage is safe for most pregnancies, your healthcare provider knows your specific situation best. They can give you the green light and point out any personal considerations you might have.

This is especially crucial if you have a high-risk pregnancy or other health concerns like high blood pressure or gestational diabetes. A simple conversation ensures that everyone on your care team is on the same page. This professional medical advice is the foundation for a safe and worry-free experience.

Share Your Health History

Once you’re at the studio, don’t be shy about sharing your health details with your massage therapist. We need to know the full picture to tailor the session perfectly for you. Let us know how far along you are, if you’re experiencing any specific aches, pains, or swelling, and if you have any sensitive areas. Mention any morning sickness, dizziness, or other symptoms you’ve been feeling.

This information helps your therapist adjust their techniques, pressure, and positioning to keep you comfortable and safe. A professional prenatal massage is never a one-size-fits-all service; it’s a personalized treatment designed around your unique pregnancy journey. The more we know, the better we can support you.

Choose a Certified Prenatal Therapist

Not all massage therapists are trained to work with pregnant bodies. It’s essential to find someone who is specifically certified in prenatal massage. These therapists have completed advanced training on the anatomical and physiological changes that occur during pregnancy. They know which areas to avoid, how to position you safely to protect your baby and your body, and how to address common pregnancy-related discomforts effectively.

When you choose a studio, ask about their therapists’ qualifications. A reputable provider will be happy to confirm their team’s expertise. At Nola Bliss, our licensed massage therapists have the specialized training needed to provide a safe and therapeutic experience for expecting mothers.

Communicate Openly with Your Therapist

Your comfort is the top priority, and communication shouldn’t stop once the massage begins. Throughout your session, be your own best advocate. If the pressure is too much or too little, say so. If a certain position doesn’t feel right, or if you suddenly feel dizzy or nauseous, speak up immediately. Your therapist wants and needs your feedback to make adjustments.

There’s no need to tough it out if something feels off. A great therapist will check in with you, but you should always feel empowered to guide the session. This open dialogue ensures the massage remains a positive, relaxing, and beneficial experience from start to finish.

The Benefits of a Safe Prenatal Massage

While it’s crucial to understand the safety precautions for pregnancy massage, it’s just as important to know why it’s such a beneficial practice for expectant mothers. When performed by a certified therapist, a prenatal massage is more than just a relaxing treat—it’s a form of self-care that supports your physical and emotional well-being throughout your pregnancy journey. From soothing sore muscles to calming an anxious mind, the advantages are significant, helping you feel more comfortable in your changing body.

Ease Aches and Pains

Pregnancy shifts your center of gravity and adds stress to your back, hips, and abdominal muscles. It’s common to feel new aches and pains as your body makes room for your growing baby. A professional prenatal massage can directly address this discomfort. A trained therapist understands how to safely ease tension in your muscles and joints, particularly in the lower back and pelvic area. This can relieve sciatic nerve pain, reduce swelling in your legs, and make it easier and more comfortable to move around as you progress through each trimester.

Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Carrying a child is a profound emotional experience, and it’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Massage is a powerful, natural tool for managing these feelings. The gentle, rhythmic pressure of a massage helps calm your nervous system, lowering stress hormones like cortisol. At the same time, it can increase levels of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine, which help lift your mood. This creates a peaceful state of mind that benefits both you and your baby, giving you a dedicated moment to rest and connect.

Improve Your Sleep

Getting a full night of rest can feel impossible when you’re pregnant, whether it’s due to leg cramps, back pain, or a busy mind. Prenatal massage can be a game-changer for your sleep quality. By relieving the physical discomforts that keep you awake and promoting a deep sense of relaxation, massage helps prepare your body for rest. Many women find that they fall asleep more easily and enjoy deeper, more restorative sleep after a session. Better sleep means you’ll have more energy during the day to handle everything else.

Increase Overall Comfort

Ultimately, all these benefits work together to improve your overall comfort and quality of life during pregnancy. Prenatal massage is a specialized therapy designed to adapt to your body’s unique needs, ensuring you and your baby are safe and supported at all times. When your aches are soothed, your mind is calm, and you’re sleeping better, the entire experience of pregnancy becomes more positive and enjoyable. Investing in regular prenatal massage is an investment in your own well-being, helping you feel your best as you prepare for motherhood.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a doctor’s note to get a prenatal massage? While a formal note isn’t always required for a low-risk pregnancy, getting your doctor’s approval is the smartest first step. A quick conversation with your doctor or midwife ensures everyone on your care team is on the same page. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or any other health conditions, getting medical clearance is essential for your safety and peace of mind.

What if I’m not showing yet? Should I still tell my therapist I’m pregnant? Yes, absolutely. You should let your therapist know you’re pregnant from the very beginning, even during the first trimester. This allows them to make crucial safety modifications right away, such as avoiding certain pressure points and using appropriate techniques. Your safety is the top priority, and this information is vital for providing a truly beneficial and risk-free massage.

I love deep tissue massage. Will a prenatal massage actually do anything for me? This is a common concern, and it’s helpful to think of a prenatal massage as a different kind of effective. While it avoids the intense, deep pressure you might be used to, it’s far from just a light rub. Your therapist will use skilled, moderate pressure to address the specific aches in your hips, back, and shoulders. The goal is to relieve tension and reduce swelling safely, and you’ll likely be surprised by how much relief you feel.

How often should I get a prenatal massage? There’s no single right answer, as it really depends on your body and your budget. Many women find that a monthly massage during the second trimester is a great way to manage aches. As you move into the third trimester, you might find that increasing the frequency to every two weeks provides much-needed relief from swelling and back pain. Listen to your body and work with your therapist to find a schedule that feels right for you.

Can my partner and I get a couples massage if I’m pregnant? Of course! A couples massage can be a wonderful way to connect before the baby arrives. We can easily accommodate you by having one therapist perform a specialized prenatal massage for you while your partner receives their preferred service, like a Swedish or deep tissue massage, in the same room. It’s a great way for both of you to relax and unwind together.

About Sara Albee

View all posts by Sara Albee

Sara Albee is a Licensed Massage Therapist since 2011 and the CEO & Chief Bliss Officer of NOLA Bliss Massage since 2012. She is a Certified Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy Instructor (since 2018) and a Certified Master Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapist. Sara is also an active member of the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce, New Orleans & Company (the city’s official tourism board), and the American Massage Therapy Association.

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