Is Deep Tissue Massage Safe During Pregnancy? What Every Expecting Mum Should Know

Pregnancy is an incredible journey that brings physical, emotional, and hormonal changes. With that comes a growing need for rest, relief, and intentional care. Massage therapy can be a powerful support tool during pregnancy, but not all techniques are suitable for every stage of this journey. One of the most common questions I get is: "Is deep tissue massage safe during pregnancy?" Let's break it down together.

Understanding the Pregnant Body

From the first trimester, your body begins shifting—postural changes, increased fluid retention, and shifts in circulation are just a few things your massage therapist should account for. By the second and third trimesters, your body has gone through dramatic physical changes that require extra care when it comes to massage.

The Legs: A Special Consideration

While massage is a wonderful support for swelling, tension, and fatigue in the legs, deep pressure on the lower legs—especially the calves—is generally avoided during pregnancy. Why? Because of the increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a type of blood clot that can become serious if dislodged.

However, this doesn’t mean the legs can't be treated. A qualified therapist trained in prenatal massage knows how to apply gentle, effective techniques to support circulation and relieve discomfort safely, without triggering pressure points or increasing clot risk.

Areas and Techniques We Avoid (and Why)

During pregnancy massage, certain techniques and areas are approached with caution or avoided altogether:

• Deep pressure on the calves or inner thighs: Due to DVT risk and vascular changes.

• Trigger points linked to uterine activity: Like SP6 (inner ankle), LI4 (hand), and GB21 (shoulder).

• Direct abdominal work: Usually avoided unless done by a therapist with advanced prenatal training.

Instead, we focus on areas that commonly carry tension, such as the hips, glutes, upper back, neck, and shoulders, always adjusting pressure based on trimester, body changes, and the client's comfort.

What Makes a Therapist "Qualified" to Treat Pregnant Clients?

Massage during pregnancy isn’t about pampering—it's about trust, safety, and knowledge.

I’ve been supporting pregnant women since 2008, and with over 18 years of hands-on experience, I bring both clinical understanding and real-world compassion to every treatment. I’m:

• Fully qualified and insured

• A proud member of Myotherapy Association Australia

• Experienced in treating pregnant clients safely in their own homes

When choosing a massage therapist during pregnancy, always check their qualifications, insurance, and experience with prenatal clients.

"Massage during pregnancy can help reduce stress, back pain and anxiety… as long as contraindications (like evolving DVT risk) are observed." — Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2021

Final Thoughts: Massage That Truly Supports You

Massage during pregnancy can be incredibly beneficial when done with the right knowledge and care. It’s not just about feeling good in the moment—it’s about supporting your body as it changes, grows, and prepares for birth.

Whether you're in your first trimester or nearing the end of your pregnancy, working with someone trained in prenatal massage ensures you get the support you need—safely, professionally, and with purpose.