Aliyah Prenatal Massage Therapy
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Aliyah Prenatal Massage
Prenatal massage, done properly, is a safe and theraputic way to lower stress and relieve pregnancy discomforts. A good massage is like hitting the trifecta: It can reduce stress, relieve aches and pains, and feel like the ultimate indulgence. And when you’re pregnant, the benefits of a prenatal massage can be amplified even more.
Licensed massage specialist Daniel Gavise, RMT, with over 20 years of clinical experience and more than 25,000 treatments performed, explains what to expect from a prenatal massage, what to avoid and what it can do for you.
What is prenatal massage?
Prenatal massage is an effective way to help relieve the emotional and physical discomforts of pregnancy.
Prenatal massage allows you to get all those feel-good benefits of massage in a pregnancy-safe practice. That can include massage techniques like:
“Prenatal massage is all about using very theraputic massage techniques that are effective for pain relief and discomfort,” Gavsie says.
Prenatal Massage Therapy at Aliyah Massage Therapy is a specialized service designed to support comfort, mobility, and overall well-being throughout pregnancy. Our experienced therapists use therapeutic, pregnancy-specific techniques and safe positioning to help you feel more at ease as your body adapts through each stage.
Pregnancy brings unique postural and physiological changes. As your center of gravity shifts and ligaments soften, tension can develop in the lower back, hips, legs, and shoulders. Prenatal massage thoughtfully addresses these areas while always prioritizing your comfort and safety.
At Aliyah, prenatal massage is provided in a calm, professional environment. Each session is tailored to you, your comfort level, stage of pregnancy, and individual needs with ongoing communication throughout your treatment so you feel supported every step of the way.
What to expect during a prenatal massage
In many ways, a prenatal massage is similar to a traditional therapeutic massage, with a few pregnancy-safe modifications.
“A prenatal massage is generally going to use very light pressure — no more than firm to medium pressure,” Gavsie explains. In other words, don’t expect the kind of deep tissue work used to release tough knots. “Prenatal massage shouldn’t cause any discomfort. We’re not looking to dig in deep,” he adds.
Also, unlike a traditional massage, a prenatal massage is typically performed while you lie on your side. Pregnancy-specific props can help keep you comfortable and ensure proper alignment. These can include pillows and firm cushions (bolsters) to support you.
Prenatal massages typically last 30 minutes to an hour. As with other massage practices, you can be as covered (or as bare) as you choose.
“During a prenatal massage, you’re covered by sheets and a blanket,” Gavsie explains. “Some people completely undress. Others prefer pregnancy drapes (sheets and blankets) because they’re more flexible. Some people prefer to stay in their undergarments. Whatever is most comfortable for you should be OK with your provider.”
Benefits of Prenatal Massage Therapy
Prenatal massage therapy can be a valuable way to support comfort and well-being throughout pregnancy. Many expectant mothers seek prenatal massage to help ease common physical discomforts such as lower back tension, hip pain, leg fatigue, and swelling, while also promoting relaxation and emotional balance.
Effective, pregnancy-appropriate massage techniques are commonly used to support circulation, reduce muscle tension, and help manage stress during pregnancy. Many clients also find prenatal massage helpful for improving overall comfort and supporting better rest.
When should you get a prenatal massage?
Gavsie says most pregnancy providers usually recommend waiting until the beginning of the second trimester (12 weeks pregnant and beyond) to get a prenatal massage.
“Waiting until you’re out of your first trimester is advisable,” Gavsie says. “Limiting or avoiding massage during early pregnancy is considered the safest route.”
Once your pregnancy is in the second trimester, the more massages, the better.
Gavsie recommends getting a massage once every two weeks for maximum benefit. As you hit the end of the third trimester and the discomforts add up, you can get a massage up to once a week.
Safe, Pregnancy-Distinguishing Care
All prenatal massage sessions at Aliyah Massage Therapy are provided by therapists trained in pregnancy-specific techniques and safe positioning. Treatments are always tailored to your trimester, comfort level, and individual needs.
Our therapists focus on providing supportive, thoughtful care as your body undergoes the physical and emotional changes associated with pregnancy. Pressure, positioning, and treatment approach are adjusted throughout the session, with open communication to ensure comfort and safety.
Prenatal and Postpartum Support
Prenatal massage therapy can also be beneficial in the postpartum period, as the body recovers from childbirth and adapts to new physical demands. Postpartum massage may help ease muscle tension, support relaxation, and promote overall recovery.
At Aliyah Massage Therapy, our goal is to provide professional, individualized prenatal and postpartum massage care in a calm, welcoming clinical environment, supporting mothers through every stage of pregnancy and beyond.
Benefits of Aliyah Massage Therapy during Pregnancy include:
Prenatal massage therapy can support comfort and well-being throughout pregnancy. Common benefits may include:
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Helping reduce stress and promote deep relaxation
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Easing muscle tension in the lower back, hips, legs, and shoulders
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Supporting relief from sciatic discomfort and joint strain
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Helping manage pregnancy-related headaches and neck tension
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Encouraging healthy circulation and lymphatic flow
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Assisting with swelling in the arms, legs, and feet
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Reducing strain on weight-bearing joints as posture changes
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Supporting emotional well-being through calming, nurturing touch
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Promoting overall comfort as the body adapts to pregnancy-related changes
All prenatal massage sessions at Aliyah Massage Therapy are tailored to the stage of pregnancy and each client's individual needs, with comfort and safety as top priorities.
Are there any risks?
The risks of prenatal massage from a licensed massage therapist are minimal for most healthy pregnancies, especially after the first trimester.
To ensure your safety and promote a healthy pregnancy, your therapist should follow these safety guidelines:
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Light pressure: Again, pregnancy isn’t the time for a rough-and-tumble massage. “If you’re pregnant and have blood clots, deep pressure can potentially dislodge them,” Hill warns. Deep pressure can also negatively affect your blood pressure while you’re pregnant.
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Side-lying: Lying on your stomach or back increases the risk of low blood pressure and may compress nerves. And while some massage therapists have special pregnancy massage tables with a hole cut out so you can lie down on your stomach, it’s generally safest to have a prenatal massage while lying on your side.
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Pregnancy complications: Always consult your pregnancy provider before receiving a prenatal massage. They may not recommend it if you have pregnancy concerns like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and other conditions.
If your healthcare provider has cleared you, Aliyah Massage Therapists are trained to provide prenatal massage. And get ready to enjoy the perks of some you-time.
“During pregnancy, so many things are limited — from foods and drinks to activities you enjoy and even certain medications,” Gavsie recognizes. “Prenatal massages are something you can do to help yourself feel your best.”
Prenatal Massage Therapy treatments are a great way to support
the body as it adjusts to the changes of pregnancy.