Are there circumstances when massage during pregnancy isn’t advisable?

There are some instances when massage may not be appropriate, particularly if it is a high-risk pregnancy or you have certain health conditions, so it’s always advisable to check with your doctor or midwife before having a massage.

How is pregnancy massage different to regular massage?

If you have had a massage before, then you know how great it feels. But pregnancy massage is a little different. For example, the positioning during the massage is critical to the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby. The therapist will also have to adjust their strokes and techniques to accommodate the pregnancy. The massage is always tailored to meet your individual requirements.

What position will I be in during a pregnancy massage?

The best position during massage is on your side with pillows for support, which provides the most stability for the baby and is also most comfortable for you. The massage table here at Weaver Therapies is deeply cushioned for your comfort, and has an electrically elevated back rest so that you can lie in a semi-seated position, and it can also be elevated at the legs to reduce swelling. This is also a safe position to lie in during pregnancy, as it does not put weight on the major blood vessels that return blood from your legs to your heart.

Does my abdomen get massaged?

I don’t massage your abdomen, unless it is requested. I do however believe that it is a wonderful thing for the expectant mother to massage her own abdomen, as it can be ideal for the start of the mother-baby bond. Aromatherapy oils can be blended on request for you to take home for self-massage, just ask for more information.

What clothing do I wear for a pregnancy massage or reflexology? Do I have to be undressed?

Pregnancy massage can be performed with as much or as little clothing as you’re comfortable wearing – it’s always a personal decision. You’ll be asked to keep your pants on and remove your bra, and towels will be used for coverage so only the parts that are being massaged are exposed. For reflexology, wear loose-fitting, comfy clothing.

Which massage oils and reflexology balms do you use?

Here at Weaver Therapies, sweet almond oil is used for massages. It is a pure, natural carrier oil that is safe and one of the best oils to use during pregnancy, as it’s perfect for massage and yet doesn’t leave greasy or sticky residue. For reflexology, Relaxing Massage Balm by Me-Time Therapies, Scotland, is used, which contains almond and olive oils, beeswax, and English lavender, bergamot and rose geranium essential oils.

How often should I have a massage when I am pregnant?

This is entirely up to you. Each woman and each pregnancy is different, so there is no standard answer for this question. If you’re having a difficult pregnancy, with back and muscular pain, leg cramps, sleeplessness and/or swelling I would recommend that you come once a week in the last trimester.

How soon after my baby is born can I have a postnatal massage?

If it was a healthy pregnancy and delivery without any major complication, a massage can safely be given as soon as you feel ready. However, if you have a caesarean-section you will usually need to wait at least 6 weeks for the scar tissue to heal. Your weight Unwanted body hair Scars Acne or other skin blemishes Please don’t let this stop you from getting help from a massage therapist. If you’re sensitive about a particular area, ask them to avoid it. You can also opt for a fully clothed massage. Whatever your concerns, know that I am friendly, supportive and judgment-free. I’m also an ex-nurse, so there isn’t much I haven’t seen before, I promise you!

Are there any parts of my body that shouldn’t be massaged during pregnancy?

During the first trimester the abdomen and deep work on the lower back should be avoided. There are acupressure points on feet and hands that are known to stimulate contractions, but only if they are worked specifically and accurately. Gentle massage to assist with swelling or joint pain is safe for most women. The exception to this is that if you have had pre-term contractions, the ankles should be avoided entirely – just in case. I am trained in pregnancy massage, so you can be assured I know which areas to avoid and the appropriate techniques to use.

Pregnancy Reflexology - Weaver Therapies

Pregnancy Reflexology

Reflexology is a gentle form of massage therapy whereby thumb/finger pressure is applied to areas of your face and feet with the aim of creating beneficial effects in other parts of your body. This can be particularly helpful during pregnancy to calm anxieties, improve sleep, and help with symptoms such as morning sickness, indigestion, swollen ankles, insomnia and pelvic pain, as well as reduce the risk of ‘baby blues’.

It is deeply relaxing and improves both cardiovascular and lymphatic circulation, releases congestion, and promotes flow of energy and balance. improve health and wellbeing, encouraging the body to balance and heal itself. In addition, facial reflexology encourages healthy blood and lymph flow and stimulates collagen and elastin, therefore helping your skin to rejuvenate and minimize the appearance of ageing lines.

Pregnancy Reflexology is specially adapted to be safely carried out from the second trimester onwards. During your consultation, I will ask a few questions about your general health and the issues you would like help with. I will then help you to get comfortable on my extra wide and extra deep electric therapy couch, with your feet elevated and back well supported.

The treatment will begin with a soothing massage helping to warm your skin and muscles, loosen the joints and get energy flowing. In facial reflexology, Tropic Skincare Elixir, radiance-boosting omega oil, is used, and in foot reflexology I use a beautifully scented reflexology balm. I then go on to apply slow, purposeful pressure throughout your face and/or feet. It is not uncommon to fall asleep, as you enter into a deeply relaxed state of healing.

Book Pregnancy Reflexology