Prenatal Massage: When It's Safe and What It May Help
Pregnancy changes a lot in a short time. Your posture shifts, your sleep changes, and parts of your body you never used to think about start asking for attention. If you've been wondering whether a massage is a good idea right now, you're not alone. It's one of the questions we hear most from expecting parents in Dunnville and around Haldimand County.
Here's what to know about prenatal massage, when it's usually a good fit, and what a visit with us looks like.
Is massage safe during pregnancy?
For most healthy pregnancies, yes. Registered massage therapists (RMTs) are trained to adjust their work for pregnancy: how you lie on the table, how much pressure they use, and which areas they treat more gently. Many people book prenatal massage throughout their pregnancy.
Every pregnancy is different, though. Check with your midwife or doctor before booking if:
your pregnancy is considered high-risk
you've had bleeding, cramping or leaking fluid
you've been told you have high blood pressure or preeclampsia
you notice sudden swelling, especially in your face or hands, or pain, warmth or swelling in one leg
your care provider has asked you to limit activity
If any of these come up between visits, call your care provider first. We'd always rather you check.
What prenatal massage may help with
Expecting parents often come to us for:
low back and hip aches as baby grows
tight neck, shoulders and upper back
leg cramps and heavy, tired legs
trouble getting comfortable, relaxing or sleeping
Massage won't change how your pregnancy goes, and it doesn't replace your prenatal care. But many people find it may help ease some of the everyday aches, and it's a rare hour that's just for you.
What a visit looks like
Your first appointment starts with a short health history. Your RMT will ask how far along you are, how you've been feeling, and what you'd like from the session.
Most of the treatment is done lying on your side, with pillows under your head, your belly and between your knees. Some people are also comfortable partly reclined with extra support. You stay covered except for the area being worked on.
You're in charge the whole time. Ask for lighter or firmer pressure, a position change, or a break whenever you like. And if you need a bathroom break halfway through, that's completely normal.
How to prepare
Have a light snack beforehand so you're not hungry on the table.
Wear something comfortable and easy to change out of.
Bring your benefits information. Many extended health plans cover RMT massage, so check what yours includes.
Take it easy afterwards if you can, and keep a water bottle handy.
When baby arrives
We see parents after the birth too, and our osteopathic practitioners see newborns. If you're curious, here's what to expect at your baby's first osteopathy visit.
Book a prenatal massage
Our registered massage therapists see expecting parents at our clinic in Dunnville. If you have questions before booking, call or message us and we're happy to talk it through.