10/02/2025
Why Pregnancy Massage is Beneficial at Every Stage—Not Just the Final Weeks
Pregnancy is a time of huge changes—physically, mentally, and emotionally. As your body adapts to support your growing baby, aches, pains, and discomfort can become part of daily life. While many women wait until the final few weeks to book a pregnancy massage, the truth is that regular massage throughout pregnancy can provide relief, improve well-being, and support a more comfortable experience from the first trimester to the last.
At Sigma, we specialise in pregnancy health, with over 15 years of experience in pre- and postnatal care. Our treatments are designed to support your body through every stage, keeping you comfortable, relaxed, and moving well throughout pregnancy.
The Benefits of Pregnancy Massage in Every Trimester
First Trimester: Supporting Early Pregnancy Changes
The first trimester can bring fatigue, hormonal changes, and, for many women, nausea. While deep tissue massage isn’t recommended in the early weeks, gentle techniques can help ease muscle tension, promote relaxation, and improve circulation—helping to support energy levels and better sleep.
Research has shown that pregnancy massage can lower cortisol (the stress hormone) while increasing serotonin and dopamine, both of which support mood regulation and emotional well-being (Field et al., 2004). With early pregnancy often being a time of uncertainty, this additional support can be invaluable.
Second Trimester: Reducing Discomfort as Your Body Adjusts
By the second trimester, energy levels often improve, but new challenges arise as the body adapts to a growing bump. Increased weight and postural shifts can lead to tension in the lower back, hips, and legs. Regular massage can help by:
- Relieving strain on weight-bearing muscles
- Improving circulation and reducing swelling
- Supporting overall posture and movement
One study found that prenatal massage can reduce leg swelling by up to 40% through improved lymphatic drainage. This makes a real difference for those experiencing fluid retention and discomfort in the legs and feet.
Third Trimester: Preparing for Birth and Easing Late-Pregnancy Strain
As your baby grows, additional strain is placed on the lower back, pelvis, and legs, often leading to sciatic pain, pelvic girdle discomfort, and difficulty sleeping. Regular massage can help manage these symptoms by:
- Easing tension in the lower back and hips
- Supporting better circulation to reduce swelling
- Promoting relaxation and improved sleep
A study in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology found that prenatal massage significantly reduced stress hormones and improved sleep quality. Given how disrupted sleep can become in late pregnancy, this is an important benefit.
Why Choosing a Specialist Matter
Pregnancy massage isn’t just about relaxation—it’s about ensuring both you and your baby are supported safely. Seeing a specialist in pregnancy massage is essential, as general massage techniques are not always appropriate for expectant mothers.
At Sigma, our therapists are fully qualified in pregnancy care, meaning we:
✔️ Use safe, adapted techniques for each stage of pregnancy
✔️ Avoid areas that could trigger contractions or discomfort
✔️ Have a deep understanding of pregnancy-related conditions like PGP, sciatica, and swelling, and how to manage them effectively
Pregnancy is a time when your body is working hard—massage can be an essential part of looking after yourself throughout.
Whether you're in the early stages or preparing for birth, pregnancy massage can make a real difference in how you feel.