How Many Weeks Pregnant Do You Have To Be To Get a Massage?

Being pregnant drains you to the very last inch of your body. As your baby grows, the posture of your body changes, muscles require more energy to work, and things which were easy for your baby are now exhausting or painful. It is normal to have backache, hip tensions, swelling and poor sleeping as the months go by. These are those changes that occur to most of the women when they are pregnant, and this being the case, does not mean that you cannot do anything about them.

It's for this reason that so many expectant women seek out massage. Here at Kennington Osteopathic Practice, we provide Pregnancy Massage Oxford for those women seeking effective, specifically targeted relief during pregnancy. But the one question we get asked most frequently is straightforward: "How advanced in my pregnancy must I be before I can book?" In this blog, we shall answer this honestly along with what to look out for, when it's okay and how exactly the massage is tailored to every stage of pregnancy.

When Is It Safe to Begin?

First 12 Weeks: It Is Best to Wait

The first three months (weeks 1–12) are a sensitive period. Although massage is not shown to be harmful early on, most clinics, ours included, do not like to treat during this period unless there is a medical indication and a note from a doctor. It is largely a precaution. Hormonal shifts and initial development are greatest, and the risk of miscarriage is obviously higher during the initial three months.

That doesn’t mean you can’t do anything. Some women find gentle neck or shoulder work helpful if cleared by their midwife, but most wait until the second trimester for full treatment.

Second Trimester Onward: A Good Time to Begin

At 12 weeks, things usually settle down. This is where massage is both beneficial and more commonly advised. Posture begins to change, the bump is developing, and most women experience tension through their back, legs, or hips.

The massage of this stage can be pain-reducing, about improving circulation and better sleep. It is also time to work on other parts of the body so that you can adapt to the new changes, such as learning how to use the pelvis and spine.

Third Trimester: Still Safe and Still Worth It

As pregnancy goes on, discomfort usually gets worse. Your joints have to work harder, and supporting excess weight wears you down. During the last trimester, massage is centred on keeping you as comfortable and mobile as you can be.

At this point, sessions are tailored to your body. You won't be lying down. We work in side-lying or reclined positions using pillows to support your spine and bump. We maintain light pressure and steer clear of areas associated with inducing contractions.

Massage during these weeks can alleviate swelling, loosen tight muscles, and assist with sleep. It's also said by most women to help them relax before labour.

What Does Pregnancy Massage Actually Help With?

Massage is not all about switching off, although it can assist with that as well. It provides physical relief for the actual changes of pregnancy.

Muscle Pain

The back, hips, and shoulders tend to bear additional weight. Massage ensures tensions are released in these spots, particularly as posture changes. Pregnancy Massage Oxford is intended to relieve the particular pressure points pregnancy causes.

Circulation

Swelling and build-up of fluid are normal, particularly in the ankles and legs. Massage promotes improved circulation and diminishes puffiness.

Relief from Stress

Pregnancy is as much an ordeal for the mind as it is for the body. A beneficial massage relaxes the nervous system, allays anxiety, and enhances your mood in a natural manner.

Sleep

Interfered sleep is typical. Massage relaxes your muscles and can enhance the quality of sleep, especially during the latter months.

Preparation For Labour

Massage can very gently prepare the body for birthing. Working over the pelvis and lower back may relieve tension and assist the baby into a more favourable position.

How Is Pregnancy Massage Different from a Normal One?

Pregnancy massage isn't merely a gentle version of the standard. It's another treatment entirely. The techniques, body positioning, timing, and even the oils we employ are all modified for safety.

Massage at our clinic is informed by clinical expertise and real-world experience. We employ positioning that stabilises both you and the baby. We also avoid specific pressure points, and we ensure you never are lying on your back for extended periods.

The speed is gentle, the pressure is cautious, and the attention is always to what's safe, not merely what feels good right now. That's why selecting a practitioner trained in pregnancy work is important.

Can Everyone Get Pregnancy Massage?

Everyone can, but some exceptions apply.

Massage is not advisable if you:

• Have a high-risk pregnancy
  
  
• Experience bleeding vaginally
  
  
• Have preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.
  
  
• Have a history of blood clots.
  
  
• Feel dizzy and sick a lot.
  
  

If your midwife or doctor has indicated massage is safe, be sure to book with someone who knows how to work with pregnant clients. We treat women from all over Oxford and also have many who seek an Osteopath Abingdon, providing no-nonsense, hands-on care founded on experience.

How Often Should You Book?

There isn't one specific rule. I have women who come once a month, every two weeks in the third trimester. Some come only once when the pains become overwhelming.

It is something that is dependent on your mood, the needs of your body and what you can supply into your routine. We will obviously collaborate with you and see what is in your best interest based on the stage you are in and the kind of support you need.

Is Pregnancy Massage the Same as Seeing an Osteopath?

Not quite. Osteopathy looks at how your whole body moves, including your joints, spine, and muscles. Osteopaths use hands-on techniques, but not all osteopathy is massage. It can also include stretching, mobilisation, and advice on posture and movement.

We do both at Osteopathy Oxford. So if you require massage, osteopathy, or a little of each, we'll walk you through the choices. If you are in later pregnancy and would like assistance in remaining mobile or with joint pain, visiting an Osteopath Abingdon might be a positive move.

Arrange a Pregnancy Massage Suitable For You

Practical, Personalised Treatment from People who Know Pregnancy

You don't have to wait until it gets to the point where it's uncomfortable. Pregnancy massage is not about patching things up, but rather about remaining well. Whether you're managing daily tension, having trouble sleeping, or simply need a break, we provide treatment that honours what your body is going through.

If you are locally based and searching for an Osteopath Abingdon, Kennington Osteopathic Practice is nearby and offers both osteopathy and pregnancy massage. It is all tailored to you, no guesswork, no hurry.

We treat women at any stage of pregnancy. If you do not know what type of treatment would suit you, we will discuss it with you first.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I have a massage before 12 weeks pregnant?
Most clinics wait until the second trimester as a precaution, unless you've been informed it's medically safe.

2. Is third trimester pregnancy massage safe?
Yes, with proper modifications, it can be very beneficial. We utilise side-lying positions and stay away from sensitive areas.

3. Do I require a referral to book a massage at Osteopathy Oxford?
No. You can book it direct, although if you have a medical condition it's always best to check with your GP or your midwife beforehand.

4. Can I have massage and osteopathy in the same session?
Yes. If appropriate for you, we can fit both together in a specialised treatment plan.