Massage, Yoga Classes and Counselling
Pregnancy Massage
Pregnancy massage, also known as prenatal massage or maternity massage, is a specialised type of therapeutic bodywork designed to address the unique discomforts and physical needs of a woman during and after her pregnancy (postpartum massage).
It is not simply a regular massage done gently; it requires specific training, positioning, and techniques to ensure the safety and comfort of both the mother and the baby.
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Here is a breakdown of what it is, its benefits, and the key differences from a standard massage:
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1. Special Positioning
The most immediate difference is how the mother is positioned on the table, as standard face-down or flat-on-the-back positions can be dangerous or uncomfortable during pregnancy.
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Sideways: Most of the massage is performed with the mother lying on her side, supported by specialised pillows. This helps relieve pressure on the lower back and pelvis.
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Expectant mothers can lie on the massage table as they normally would, up until 20 weeks, if they are comfortable to do so. After 20 weeks, side lying is required to keep mother and baby comfortable.
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2. Focus on Common Discomforts
The techniques are specifically aimed at relieving areas strained by the changes in the body:
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Lower Back and Hips: The increased weight and shift in the centre of gravity often cause severe pain in the lumbar region, sciatic nerve, and hips.
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Legs and Ankles: Massaging the lower extremities can help reduce swelling (oedema) and alleviate tension from carrying extra weight.
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Neck and Shoulders: Tension often builds up from poor sleeping positions and the pregnant woman's changing body.
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3. Safety and Training
A certified prenatal massage therapist has specialised training in:
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Anatomy: Understanding the physiological changes, hormone fluctuations, and common complications (like preeclampsia or blood pressure issues).
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Contraindications: Knowing which areas of the body to avoid (such as deep pressure around the ankles or specific abdominal areas) and recognising when massage is not appropriate (e.g., in high-risk pregnancies).
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There are 4 main acupressure points in the pregnant woman's body to avoid during Pregnancy Massage, your therapist should be aware of these points.
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Primary Benefits
Pregnancy massage offers a host of emotional and physical benefits:
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Reduced Back and Joint Pain: Alleviates the strain caused by the shifting centre of gravity and increased weight.
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Decreased Swelling (Oedema): Stimulating soft tissue helps move excess fluid, reducing swelling in the joints, particularly the feet and ankles.
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Improved Sleep: By reducing pain and promoting relaxation, Pregnancy Massage can significantly improve sleep quality.
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Lowered Stress and Anxiety: Pregnancy Massage calms the nervous system, which can help regulate hormones and reduce overall stress.
When can I have Pregnancy Massage?
First Trimester: Many massage therapists are cautious or refuse to massage clients in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy due to the risk of miscarriage being naturally highest during this time.
Second Trimester: This is a perfect time to begin booking in for Pregnancy Massage. You're past the riskiest time for miscarriage and usually the nausea will be less common at this time in your pregnancy.
Third Trimester: This is the time in your pregnancy that you will need Pregnancy Massage the most! The body is changing, there are postural changes and discomforts sleeping. Pregnancy Massage is safe right up until giving birth.
How Often Should I have a Pregnancy Massage?
You can have a Pregnancy Massage as often as you like. If the massage is helping alleviate discomforts associated with pregnancy, it's beneficial to keep going regularly.
Consult Your Doctor:
Always consult with your doctor or midwife before beginning any massage therapy during pregnancy.
Certified Therapist:
Ensure your therapist is certified and experienced in prenatal massage. If you book with Suzie, you can be comfortable knowing that Suzie has completed additional specialist training in Pregnancy Massage and knows what your body needs!
Is Pregnancy Massage covered by Health Insurance?
Yes, Pregnancy Massage is covered by Private Health Insurance under Remedial Massage.
Check with your Health Fund to see if you're covered!
Is Pregnancy Massage covered by Medicare?
No, Pregnancy Massage is not covered by Medicare.
Which Pregnancy Massage Qualification does my therapist have?
Suzie completed specialist Pregnancy Massage Training at Nature Care Colleg in St Leonards in 2019. This training provided Suzie with the knowledge and understanding of how to perform Pregnancy Massage safely in all trimesters.
The pregnancy pillow, is a long, supportive, specialised pillow. It allows pregnant women to lie on their side during the treatment whilst having the whole body supported in a safe and nurturing manner.
Post-Natal Massage
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Suzie completed Post-Natal Massage Training as part of the Pregnancy Massage Course at Nature Care College.
What to Expect in a Post-Natal Massage Treatment​​
1. The Intake and Consultation
The session will start with a thorough check-in that goes beyond standard massage intake. You can expect your therapist to ask about:
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Birth Details: Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section (and when). If a C-section, they will confirm you have medical clearance for massage.
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Current Pain Points: Where you are feeling the most strain (e.g., lower back, neck/shoulders from nursing, wrists/forearms from holding the baby).
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Emotional Status: How you are feeling emotionally (stress, anxiety, exhaustion).
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Nursing Status: If you are nursing, they will ensure they accommodate sensitive areas and positioning.
2. Positioning and Comfort
Your comfort and safety are the top priorities.​
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Comfortable Positions: You may lie flat on your back (if comfortable), on your side (similar to prenatal massage), or face-down. If you are nursing, your therapist will ensure there is enough padding and support to keep your breasts comfortable while lying prone.
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Breaks are Welcome: You should feel completely comfortable asking for a break to switch positions, use the restroom, or even take a moment to feed or pump if necessary. This session is entirely on your schedule.
3. The Massage Treatment
The focus areas will be determined by your intake, but generally, the massage targets areas most strained by motherhood:
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Neck and Shoulders - Deep relief for the muscles strained by continuous nursing, carrying the baby, and leaning over the cot/change table.
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Lower Back and Hips - Stabilising relief for the lower back, SI joints, and hips, which are still adjusting after the hormone relaxin has done its work.
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Abdomen - (Gentle)Very light massage may be applied to the lower abdomen (with clearance) to help encourage the return of the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size and increase circulation.
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C-Section Scar - Only after medical clearance (usually 6-8 weeks postpartum), the therapist may begin gentle work to soften and mobilise the scar tissue, which is vital for long-term comfort and movement.
4. Techniques and Pressure
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Modified Pressure: While the therapist may use strong pressure on specific knots in your upper back (where it's needed), the overall pressure will be monitored and adjusted carefully.
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Calming Focus: Much of the massage will focus on calming strokes to reduce stress hormones (cortisol) and encourage deep relaxation, which is crucial for postpartum recovery.
You should leave the session feeling deeply rested, physically lighter, and emotionally supported.
Don't hesitate to tell your therapist what feels good, what hurts, and what you need at any moment—this treatment is fully dedicated to your healing.
