Pregnancy massage is massage therapy specifically tailored for the expectant mother's needs. It is also called pre-natal massage.

How is pregnancy massage different from regular massage?
The mother's body must be properly positioned and supported during the massage, using pillows and padding. Proper positioning ensures comfort and safety for the mother and baby.
Also, some massage techniques, such as deep tissue work, cannot be used. Certain areas of the body should be avoided during pregnancy.

What are the benefits of pregnancy massage?
Pregnancy massage has been found to reduce stress, decrease swelling in the arms and legs, and relieve aches and pains in muscles and joints.
It's a popular complementary therapy during pregnancy for back pain, when choices for pain relief, such as medication, are often limited.
Not only can massage be physically beneficial, but the human touch can be comforting and provide emotional support during pregnancy.
Massage therapy has been found to reduce anxiety and depression.

PRECAUTIONS
Many massage therapists do not recommend massage in the first trimester.
Also, women with certain health conditions may not be able to have pregnancy massage.
It's best to consult your doctor and a certified pregnancy massage therapist.
What to expect at a massage session
Once you arrive for your massage session, I will begin by conducting a short consultation, detailing your personal health so that I will know if there are any contraindications, or reasons that massage may not be advisable. After acquainting you with the massage room, I will leave to allow you privacy to undress and lay between the towels on the massage couch. During the massage you will be modestly draped at all times. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. A full body massage consists of massage to the hands, arms, feet, legs, stomach, upper chest, shoulders, neck, and back.
After the massage is complete, I will leave the room to allow you privacy to redress. Dangle your feet off the side of the massage couch for a minute or two before attempting to stand, as massage promotes the release of toxins from body tissues. Upon return, I will bring you a glass of water, as it is very important to drink lots of water after the massage to help flush toxins out of your system. We can then discuss how you are feeling after your treatment followed by some aftercare advice.

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Joella Kinser - For Jo's Personal Profile click here

VTCT Diploma in Holistic Therapies from West Suffolk College.
VTCT Diploma in Sports Massage from Cambridge Regional College, and various workshops in London, Ipswich and Coventry. Registered with BABTEC (British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology)

In Practice since 2004

Vicky Marsh

Registration/Qualifications
Sports Massage Diploma Level 4
in practice since 2006
Member of the Sports Massage Association