What Is a Pregnancy Massage and Is It Safe?

Pregnancy invites a mix of excitement, anticipation, and physical change. As your body works harder each day, it is natural to look for supportive ways to stay comfortable. Many expecting parents choose pregnancy massage, sometimes called prenatal massage, because it offers gentle relief while honoring the unique needs of the pregnant body.

Still, people often have questions. What exactly is a pregnancy massage? How does it work? And is prenatal massage actually safe? At Crescent Moon Prenatal Massage in Grand Rapids, we handle these questions all the time. Below is a clear, friendly guide to help you understand what to expect and how pregnancy massage can support you during this remarkable time.

Understanding Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy massage is real therapeutic work, but the biggest difference is how your body is positioned and supported. The massage itself is familiar. What changes is the setup. A trained prenatal therapist like Courtney at Crescent Moon Prenatal Massage in Grand Rapids uses specialized bolsters, pillows, and table adjustments to take pressure off your hips, back, and belly. You can finally relax without feeling jammed, pinched, or awkward.

You are never expected to twist into any uncomfortable position. We can position you lying on your side with full bolstering from head to knees. We also have a special pregnancy pillow that supports breasts and a growing belly while protecting the lower back from pain. The goal is simple. Support your body so your muscles can let go.

Most importantly, pregnancy massage reminds you that discomfort is not something you have to “tough out.” You deserve to feel supported and comfortable during this phase of life. A well-trained therapist can help you get there.

How Relaxin Plays a Role in Prenatal and Postpartum Massage

Relaxin is a hormone your body produces during pregnancy to help your joints and ligaments loosen. It is great for making space for your baby, but it also creates that “my hips feel wobbly” sensation many women notice. The pelvis, low back, and hip muscles often take on extra work because everything around them is stretching and shifting.

This is where working with someone who truly understands prenatal and postpartum anatomy makes a difference. Courtney is trained specifically in these stages, which means she knows how relaxin affects movement, stability, and comfort. She can recognize which muscles are overworking to compensate for loose ligaments and adjust her techniques so your body feels supported rather than stressed.

Massage with a specialist like Courtney can help you by:

• Releasing tension in the muscles that are bracing to provide stability
• Improving circulation in swollen or heavy areas
• Helping the nervous system settle so your body stops “guarding” every step

Relaxin stays in your system for a while after delivery, which is why postpartum care matters just as much as prenatal care. Courtney’s training allows her to guide your body through that shift, too. Your ligaments begin to firm up again. Your muscles are relearning how to support you. 

Gentle, targeted postpartum massage helps ease that transition instead of forcing your body to figure it out alone.

Is Pregnancy Massage Safe?

Yes, when performed by a trained prenatal massage therapist, pregnancy massage is considered safe for most people. Even the American Pregnancy Association is among several authoritative groups that support massage for prenatal and postpartum women. 

The key is working with someone who understands how the body changes from trimester to trimester and knows how to adapt each session. 

At Crescent Moon, the owner and therapist, Courtney, is trained to avoid pressure points that can stimulate contractions, modify techniques as your pregnancy progresses, and keep your body fully supported.

Most providers begin offering pregnancy massage after the first trimester, simply because the early weeks can come with symptoms that make massage uncomfortable. If you feel good and your doctor approves, you can start sooner. Good communication matters. Let your therapist know if you have nausea, lightheadedness, swelling, pain, or a high-risk pregnancy. Those details help shape the safest plan for you.

Before a massage session at Crescent Moon in Grand Rapids, you’ll fill out an intake form and talk with Courtney about your specific health concerns. We’re happy to talk with your provider as well to come up with the right treatment plan. 

Benefits of Pregnancy Massage

Many clients say they feel lighter and more grounded after a prenatal session. The right touch can ease muscle tension, reduce swelling, improve circulation, and help with the aches that show up as your center of gravity shifts.

Some of the most common benefits include:

• Better sleep and deeper relaxation
• Relief from sciatic discomfort
• Less rib and hip tightness
• Lower stress levels and more emotional balance

There is also something to be said for a quiet hour where no one needs anything from you. Pregnancy is a lot. Slowing down helps your mind catch up to your body.

When to Avoid Pregnancy Massage

Most people can safely receive a prenatal massage. Still, there are times when your therapist may suggest waiting or getting clearance from your provider. 

Conditions that might require a medical evaluation first include: 

• Preeclampsia
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Severe swelling
• Blood clots
• Fever
• Unexplained abdominal pain 

If you have any concerns, your massage therapist will talk through them with you.

Book a Pregnancy Massage Today

Pregnancy massage should feel supportive, comforting, and tailored to your changing body. When delivered by a trained therapist, it is a safe way to reduce discomfort and feel more at ease. Crescent Moon Prenatal Massage brings specialized care to every session so you can move through your pregnancy with confidence and a little more comfort.

Whether you’re looking for a massage for yourself or want to buy a gift card for a special mom-to-be in your life, we have plenty of openings and a 24/7 booking system.