Can I have a massage when I'm pregnant?

Many women can, and plenty find a gentle massage a lovely way to ease aching muscles and feel looked after. The key is to see a therapist trained in pregnancy massage and to tell them how far along you are. Check with your midwife or GP first, especially in the first trimester or if your pregnancy has any complications.

What a pregnancy massage is like

1. A health chat first. Your therapist asks how far along you are, how you are feeling, and about any medical conditions, your midwife's advice and any aches you want help with.
2. Positioning. You are usually propped on your side with pillows, or semi-reclined. Lying flat on your back is generally avoided later in pregnancy, and many therapists use a special pregnancy cushion.
3. The massage itself. Strokes are usually slow and gentle to medium in pressure, often on the back, hips, legs, shoulders and neck. You can ask for lighter or firmer touch at any point.
4. Afterwards. You take your time getting up, and you may be advised to drink water and rest.

What many people find it helps with

• Aching back and hips. The body changes a lot, and tired muscles often welcome some care.
• Tight shoulders and neck. Many people carry stress there.
• Heavy or tired legs. Gentle strokes can feel soothing.
• Feeling calmer. An hour of quiet and kind attention can help you rest and unwind.

Choosing the right therapist

Ask whether they have specific training in pregnancy massage, not just general massage, and how long they have offered it. A good therapist will not use certain techniques or strong pressure in places they know to avoid, and may politely decline to treat you until you have checked with your midwife. Massage therapists are not a protected title in the UK, so it helps to choose someone who is on a voluntary register such as the CNHC, or who belongs to a professional body and carries insurance.

Roughly what does it cost?

A pregnancy massage in the UK is commonly from £50 for an hour, and often more in big cities. Some therapists offer shorter sessions at a lower price, and a few visit you at home. Check the length, the price and the cancellation terms before you book.

How often, and when to wait

Many women have a massage every few weeks, or once a month, and some choose to go more often in the last months when aches are strongest. Some therapists prefer to wait until after the first twelve weeks, so do not be surprised if you are asked to. Different therapists have different policies, and it is always fine to ask why.

When to check with your midwife or GP first

Please speak to your midwife or GP before booking, and tell your therapist, if you have high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, bleeding, a history of blood clots, swelling in one leg, a low-lying placenta, diabetes in pregnancy, or you have been told your pregnancy needs extra care. If you ever have bleeding, severe pain, a headache that won't go, or notice a change in your baby's movements, contact your midwife or maternity unit straight away rather than waiting for an appointment. A good therapist will tell you if another route is better first.

Where it fits alongside NHS care

Massage is a comfort and relaxation extra, not a part of your antenatal care. Keep going to your midwife appointments and scans as normal, and mention to your midwife that you are having massage. It should never replace any advice or treatment you have been given.

This page is general information, not medical advice. If you have symptoms that haven't been checked, or you are under medical care, please talk to your GP as well.

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