We offer remedial massage, sports massage, relaxation massage and pregnancy massage.
Book your appointment here:
https://bookings.gettimely.com/canberraremedialmassage/bb/book
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Pregnancy massage is a specialised form of therapeutic bodywork designed to support comfort and wellbeing during pregnancy.
It helps ease muscle tension, reduce swelling, and relieve back or hip pain associated with postural and hormonal changes — while offering relaxation and calm during a time of physical transformation.
Pregnancy massage uses modified positioning (usually side-lying or semi-reclined) and gentle, supportive techniques to accommodate the expectant body safely.
Treatment may include long, flowing strokes to enhance circulation, gentle kneading to release tension in the back and shoulders, and soft stretching to maintain mobility and comfort.
The benefits primarily arise through neurophysiological and autonomic mechanisms, rather than structural tissue changes.
Massage stimulates sensory receptors and activates the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) — the body’s “rest and digest” mode — helping regulate blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and promote rest and recovery (Mueller et al., 2021; Sade & Özkan, 2025).
As PainScience.com notes, massage primarily works by calming the nervous system and modulating pain perception, rather than through mechanical tissue “detox” (Ingraham, 2025).
Peer-reviewed research demonstrates that pregnancy massage can:
Reduce back and leg pain, particularly in later trimesters (Mueller et al., 2021).
Lower stress and anxiety, supporting improved sleep and mood (Mueller et al., 2021).
Reduce labour pain and increase maternal satisfaction when used during childbirth (Paulraj, 2024; Sade & Özkan, 2025).
The Association of Massage Therapists (AMT, 2024) recognises pregnancy massage as a safe, supportive therapy when performed by trained practitioners who use proper positioning and screen for contraindications.
It is most effective when part of a holistic approach that includes movement, rest, hydration, and postural awareness.
Sessions are always adapted to ensure safety and comfort — avoiding deep abdominal pressure, prolonged flat supine positioning after mid-pregnancy, or any contraindicated methods.
Clients with complex pregnancies (such as pre-eclampsia, placenta previa, or DVT risk) should consult their obstetric provider before massage.
Mild relaxation or fatigue is typical after a session as the body settles into parasympathetic regulation.
First trimester: Gentle relaxation work if approved by your healthcare provider.
Second trimester: Regular sessions, held every 2–4 weeks, can help maintain comfort and reduce strain.
Third trimester: Shorter, more frequent sessions can relieve back tension, swelling, and fatigue.
Postnatal: Massage supports recovery, circulation, and rest once cleared by your healthcare provider.
Mueller, S., et al. (2021). Effects, side effects and contraindications of relaxation massage during pregnancy: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 10(16), 3485. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10163485
Paulraj, P. (2024). Effectiveness of massage therapy in reducing labour pain compared with other alternative therapies among pregnant women: A systematic review. International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Nursing, 6(1), 44–48. https://doi.org/10.33545/26642298.2024.v6.i1a.134
Sade, G., & Özkan, H. (2025). The effect of mechanical massage on labour pain, duration and maternal satisfaction: A randomised controlled trial. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 25, 823. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-025-07977-3
Association of Massage Therapists. (2024). Benefits of Massage. https://mobile.amt.org.au/massage-and-you/benefits-of-massage.html
Ingraham, P. (2025, March 28). Massage Therapy: Does It Work? A review of the science of massage therapy … such as it is. PainScience.com. https://www.painscience.com/articles/does-massage-work.php
