woman receiving pre-natal massage
woman receiving pre-natal massage

Caring for Your Body Through Pregnancy

Pregnancy changes everything, including what your body needs and what is safe. Prenatal massage is not simply a regular massage performed on a pregnant client. It is specialized therapeutic work that accounts for the physiological shifts happening throughout each trimester, from the postural changes of early pregnancy to the circulatory and tissue demands of the third trimester.

At MassageRx, prenatal massage is performed exclusively by therapists with specialized training in pregnancy bodywork. You will be positioned safely, worked with appropriately for your stage of pregnancy, and treated as someone navigating a significant physical experience, not just someone looking for an hour of relaxation.

Pricing

Single Session

60 minutes – $130

90 minutes – $175

Session Investment

For clients in the second and third trimesters with significant discomfort, the 90-minute session allows time to address multiple areas thoroughly without rushing. Your therapist can help you decide what length makes sense for where you are in your pregnancy.

What Prenatal Massage Addresses

Pregnancy places real, measurable demands on your body. Prenatal massage is designed to provide therapeutic relief for the conditions that most commonly accompany those demands.

Lower Back and Hip Pain
As your center of gravity shifts and your pelvis adjusts to accommodate your growing baby, the muscles of the lower back, hips, and glutes are under near-constant strain. Targeted therapeutic work in these areas reduces muscle tension, improves mobility, and offers meaningful relief from the chronic aching that many pregnant clients describe as their most disruptive daily symptom.

Sciatic Nerve Pain
Sciatic discomfort is extremely common during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters, as the uterus places pressure on the sciatic nerve. Prenatal massage techniques that address the piriformis and surrounding hip musculature can significantly reduce the radiating pain and numbness that travel down the leg.

Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, and Feet
Increased blood volume and reduced circulation to the lower extremities are a normal part of pregnancy, but the swelling they produce is often uncomfortable and limiting. Gentle, lymphatic-informed techniques help encourage fluid movement and reduce that heavy, tight feeling in the lower legs and feet.

Neck, Shoulder, and Upper Back Tension
Postural compensation during pregnancy, combined with the physical and emotional load of preparing for a new baby, creates significant tension through the upper body. Therapeutic work in this area helps restore ease of movement and reduce the headaches that often accompany chronic neck and shoulder holding patterns.

Sleep Disruption and Nervous System Fatigue
Pregnancy is exhausting in ways that go beyond physical discomfort. Prenatal massage supports the parasympathetic nervous system, helping your body shift into genuine rest. Many clients report improved sleep quality following regular sessions, particularly during the second and third trimesters.

Emotional Stress and Anxiety
The physical and emotional weight of pregnancy deserves acknowledgment and care. Therapeutic bodywork reduces cortisol, supports hormonal regulation, and provides the kind of grounded, attentive care that helps pregnant clients feel held, not just treated.

What to Expect During Your Session

Your session begins with a brief intake conversation covering your current trimester, any physician recommendations or restrictions, and what is most pressing for you right now. Your therapist will position you safely and comfortably using specialized bolstering designed for prenatal work.

Sessions are adapted to your trimester and your body’s specific needs on that day. What feels right at 16 weeks is different from what is appropriate at 34 weeks, and your therapist will work accordingly.

You will leave knowing what was addressed, what your body responded to, and what a thoughtful ongoing care plan might look like for the remainder of your pregnancy.

Your Prenatal Massage Specialists

Prenatal massage requires training beyond standard licensure. At MassageRx, prenatal sessions are offered exclusively with Ella and Ginger, both of whom bring specialized training in pregnancy bodywork to every session.

Both therapists are experienced working with clients across all trimesters and understand how to adapt their approach as your pregnancy progresses. If you have a preference, you are welcome to request a specific therapist when booking.

A Note on Safety

Prenatal massage at MassageRx is performed using techniques and positioning that are appropriate and safe for pregnancy. However, we always recommend letting your OB, midwife, or care provider know you are receiving massage, particularly if you have a high-risk pregnancy, a history of preterm labor, preeclampsia, blood clots, or any condition your provider is actively monitoring.

If you have any questions about whether prenatal massage is appropriate for your specific situation, we are happy to speak with you before you book.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many practitioners and physicians recommend waiting until the second trimester as a precaution, as the first trimester carries the highest risk of miscarriage regardless of outside activity. We recommend discussing timing with your care provider. We are happy to support you starting whenever you and your provider feel comfortable.

We use specialized prenatal bolstering that allows you to lie comfortably on your side, which is both safe and effective for accessing the areas that need the most attention. You will not be asked to lie face down without appropriate support.

Yes. Prenatal massage can be beneficial across all three trimesters, with techniques and focus areas adapted as your pregnancy progresses. Many clients begin in the second trimester and continue through their third.

Postpartum bodywork is a natural continuation of prenatal care and addresses the very different physical demands of recovery after birth. Ask your therapist about postpartum options when you come in for your prenatal session.

No referral is required. However, if your pregnancy has been classified as high-risk or your provider has given you specific activity guidelines, please let us know when you book so your therapist can plan accordingly.