What is Prenatal Massage?

Carrying a baby inside you changes your center of gravity and puts a lot of stress on your back, neck, abdominal muscles, and shoulders. Pregnancy also relaxes your ligaments, so that your pelvic joints are less stable, and changes your posture, pulling your pelvis forward. Add to that the extra weight you're carrying and you may find you've got an aching lower back. 

A trained prenatal massage therapist knows where a pregnant woman's sore spots are likely to be and may be able to provide some relief. (She'll also know which areas and techniques to avoid.) Still, it's important to communicate with her and tell her where you need attention. Let her know right away if anything during the massage – including your positioning – is causing you any discomfort.

One study at the University of Miami School of Medicine suggests that massage therapy during pregnancy might have multiple positive effects, including:

• Lowered anxiety
• Decreased back and leg pains
• Improved sleep
• Decreased levels of the stress hormone norepinephrine

Will I be comfortable on the massage table?

Our therapists use special pillows to accommodate your belly, and often your breasts as well, so you can lie face-down comfortably. If you find this position stresses your lower back, you can lie on your side with pillows or wedges for support.

Are there any reasons not to get a Prenatal Massage?

Be sure you get clearance from your doctor before you try a massage when you're pregnant if:

• You're experiencing nausea, vomiting, or morning sickness
• You're at high risk of miscarriage
• You have a high-risk pregnancy such as placental abruption (where the placenta slightly detaches from the wall of the uterus) or preterm labor