What is pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy massage involves using massage therapy techniques to help you feel well while you are pregnant. Massage can be especially useful to ease discomfort during pregnancy, when some medicines and other treatments are not safe to use.

Pregnancy can put a lot of stress on your back, shoulders, neck and abdominal muscles. Pregnancy massage is designed to relieve some of the problems that are common during pregnancy. It can relieve stress and reduce swelling in your arms and legs. A qualified therapist will know which areas to target, and which to avoid.

Massage in pregnancy can involve many different massage techniques. It is usually a gentle massage.

Pregnancy massage is not the same as perineal massage.

What does a pregnancy massage involve?

Before the massage begins, your therapist will talk to you about your health and lifestyle.

They will ask you to lie on a specially designed massage table. They will cover you with a sheet to protect your privacy and to keep you comfortably warm. They may use creams or oils that are safe in pregnancy — these can help them to massage your skin smoothly. They will use pillows to help you to get comfortable, in a position that is safe for pregnancy.

Remember that it's not a good idea to lie flat on your back when you are in the second half of pregnancy. This puts too much pressure on the vein that runs from your legs to your heart. It can make you feel dizzy or short of breath and can prevent oxygen getting to your baby.

What are the health benefits of pregnancy massage?

There is no strong evidence that pregnancy massage relieves pain, but it may:

• reduce stress
• relax and loosen your muscles
• improve your blood flow
• reduce fluid build-up
• improve your mood
• lower anxiety
• improve sleep

There is good evidence that massage during labour can help manage your pain and improve your emotional experience of labour.

Is pregnancy massage safe?

Massage therapy is generally considered safe if it is done properly by a trained professional. It's important to make sure your massage therapist is specially qualified for pregnancy massage.

They should avoid pressing certain pressure points and should only use gentle movements on your abdomen (tummy). They should be very gentle on your legs, because you have a higher risk of developing a blood clot when you're pregnant.

Heated beds or electric blankets are not recommended in pregnancy. You may also need help to get on and off the table safely.

Always check with your doctor before you have a pregnancy massage. It may not be safe if you have:

• nausea, vomiting, or morning sickness
• previously had a miscarriage
• a high risk pregnancy — for example, due to diabetes or high blood pressure
• abdominal pain or bleeding

Resources and support

Visit healthdirect's massage therapy guide to learn about some of the different types of massage available.

Some massage therapists are trained to work with people receiving medical care. Your doctor may have a list of therapists they recommend.

You can use healthdirect's Service Finder or visit Massage & Myotherapy Australia to find a qualified therapist in your area.