Pregnancy massage in Athol, comfortable support for a changing body

What is pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy (prenatal) massage is massage adapted for the second and third trimesters. Instead of lying face down, you lie on your side, supported with cushions, while the therapist uses gentle to medium pressure on your back, hips, legs, feet, shoulders and neck. Positioning and pressure change as your body does.

The techniques are mostly drawn from Swedish massage: smooth strokes and kneading, nothing aggressive. What makes it different is the attention to comfort, circulation and the specific strain pregnancy puts on the lower back and pelvis.

Aches it can ease

Many expecting moms find massage eases:

• Low back and hip ache as your center of gravity shifts
• Pain that runs from the buttock down the back of the leg (mention it to your provider too)
• Tight shoulders and neck, especially if you are still carrying a toddler
• Heavy, tired legs and feet at the end of the day
• Restless nights when no sleeping position feels right

Massage is not a substitute for prenatal care. If something new hurts or swells, call your provider first, then book.

Is massage safe during pregnancy?

For most healthy pregnancies, massage from a licensed therapist is considered safe after the first trimester. Jessie asks that you wait until then and get your provider’s OK before booking. Some conditions call for a pause until you are cleared, listed below.

Check with your provider, and hold off on massage, if you have a high-risk pregnancy, preeclampsia or high blood pressure; any bleeding, cramping or contractions; placenta concerns; or a history of blood clots. Pain, warmth or swelling in one calf needs a call to your provider the same day, not a massage. Pregnancy raises clot risk, so expect gentle pressure on the inner legs; that is a standard precaution.

What your session looks like

You and Jessie start by talking through how far along you are, what hurts and anything your provider has mentioned. Then you settle on your side with cushions for support, and switch sides partway through so both hips and shoulders get attention. She checks pressure as she goes. Tell her if you feel lightheaded, need the restroom, or need to shift. Breaks are completely fine.

Jessie does not use essential oils in the massage itself for pregnant clients; your massage oil is unscented. There may be a light aromatherapy scent in the room, and if you would rather have none, mention it when you book. Warm stones are included in every session, but ask your provider before adding heat. Sessions are 60, 90 or 120 minutes; most expecting clients find 60 or 90 the most comfortable. Prices are on the pricing page, and the first visit guide covers arriving and paperwork.

How it differs from a regular massage

A regular Swedish massage is done mostly face down and face up, at whatever pressure you like. Pregnancy massage keeps you on your side, avoids deep pressure on the legs and belly, and takes positioning seriously. Deep styles such as deep tissue, Ashiatsu and Thai stretching are best left until after the baby arrives, unless your provider says otherwise.