For thousands of years and across many cultures, massage has been and continues to be an integral part of easing a woman’s pregnancy, labor, delivery and recovery after birth. In western society, pregnancy massage is becoming one of the fastest growing massage therapies.

Expectant mothers experience unique physical and emotional changes due to increased weight, shifting posture, and changing hormone levels. Physical discomfort ranges from muscular tension and headaches to pressure on knees. These changes can create both physical and mental stress.

Too much stress can negatively affect the health of both the mother and the baby, resulting in a higher incidence of miscarriage, premature labor and other complications. Massage can help a woman before and after birth by reducing both anxiety and physical pain.

Prenatal massage takes traditional massage techniques such as Swedish or deep tissue massage and tailors them to address the issues and conditions that a pregnant woman faces. For example, more time is spent on easing low back and hip pain, swelling, nausea, constipation and heartburn. During the massage, a pregnant woman is nestled in pillows or specially designed cushions and lies on her side or in a semi-reclining position.

During labor, massage strokes on the backs and legs have been shown to speed labor and reduce the instances of complications in labor. After the baby's birth, massage therapy can help the body return to its pre-pregnancy state, alleviate pain, promote a renewed sense of body and self, and help maintain flexibility despite the physical stresses of infant care. For post-caesarean mothers, postnatal massage techniques can also reduce scar tissue and aid the healing of the incision and related soft tissue areas.

Expectant mothers should check with their doctors before getting a massage. Prenatal massage may not be recommended if the mother has diabetes or high blood pressure. Information about medical condition and personal preferences should be shared with the massage therapist so the massage can be tailored to meet specific needs.