Pregnancy is a powerful and transformative time—full of anticipation, physical changes, and emotional shifts. But it’s also a time that can come with physical discomforts like nausea, fatigue, back pain, and swelling. Many people describe the experience as feeling like their body is no longer their own. Fortunately, the gentle, noninvasive approach of pregnancy massage can offer effective relief.
Specialized massage during pregnancy helps ease discomfort, supports emotional well-being, and prepares the body for labor and postpartum recovery. Massage can also help reconnect you to your body with a sense of calm, comfort, and care.
What Makes Pregnancy Massage Unique?
According to Lynne Daize of the National Association of Pregnancy Massage Therapy, pregnancy massage requires specialized training. Certified therapists, like AHH’s founder, Nicole Budeau, are trained in trimester-specific techniques, labor and postpartum protocols, and physical changes associated with pregnancy. They use lighter pressure and focus on areas most affected by postural shifts and hormonal changes. Therapists may also suggest posture and breathing techniques to reduce strain and support alignment.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Massage during pregnancy has been linked to numerous health benefits:
- Improved blood and lymph circulation, which increases immunity and helps remove toxins
- Better hormonal balance and reduced stress hormones
- Greater muscle tone and flexibility, aiding in physical support for the growing pregnancy
- Relief from aches, muscle spasms, leg cramps, and joint strain
According to the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami, studies show that people who received regular pregnancy massage had reduced back pain, stress, anxiety, and sleep problems—and their babies had fewer complications.
Another TRI study found that massage during labor can result in shorter labor times, shorter hospital stays, and reduced postpartum depression.
What to Expect During Pregnancy Massage
In the first trimester, massage supports relaxation and improves circulation, helping deliver oxygen and nutrients to the placenta while stimulating lymph flow to reduce fatigue.
In the second trimester, pregnancy massage relieves muscle spasms and addresses joint and postural changes caused by the baby’s increasing weight. Therapists focus on aligning joints and releasing tension in the connective tissues.
As the belly grows, your therapist will use special positioning, such as side-lying with support pillows or semi-reclined with hip elevation to reduce pressure on nerves and arteries. These adjustments help maintain comfort and safety for both you and your baby.
During the third trimester, massage may include light trigger point work, deep relaxation, and labor preparation techniques.
Safety Considerations
Always consult your obstetrician before starting pregnancy massage—especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy or medical complications. Massage is generally considered safe with proper practitioner training, but communication with your provider is essential.
Your therapist should also be informed of any changes in your health. If needed, they can provide documentation of their prenatal massage training to help reassure medical professionals.
Including Partners and Support
Pregnancy massage can also be a shared experience. As your due date nears, some therapists offer sessions with labor partners to teach supportive massage techniques, such as AHH’s Pregnancy and Labor Support Series. You may also consider working with a doula or massage-trained birth assistant to offer comfort and physical support during labor. Learn more about the benefits of having a doula.
Postpartum and Infant Massage
Massage continues to be beneficial after birth. AHH’s postpartum recovery massage supports healing, realignment, and stress relief as you adjust to life with a newborn. It improves circulation, supports hormone regulation, and helps your body recover.
You can also bond with your baby through infant massage. AHH offers an exclusive online instruction course to teach safe, soothing touch that supports your baby’s development and deepens your parent-child relationship.
A Natural Form of Support
Pregnancy massage is far more than a luxury—it’s a supportive practice rooted in clinical evidence and caring connection. When performed by a trained professional, it can ease discomfort, promote relaxation, and help you feel more connected to your body during this remarkable time.
To experience the benefits of pregnancy massage firsthand, book an appointment with one of our specially trained prenatal massage therapists at A Healer’s Hand + The Nest. We’re here to support your comfort, connection, and well-being through every stage of pregnancy.
