Generally, yes. Massage during pregnancy is considered safe for most healthy pregnancies when a trained therapist adjusts the position and pressure, and your doctor knows your plans. At Serenity Zen, prenatal massage is side-lying and bolstered, in a private room, at every stage of pregnancy and after delivery.
The short answer
Generally safe for most healthy pregnancies, with your doctor in the loop.
Position: on your side, supported by bolsters, never face down.
Pressure: medium to firm above the waist, light below.
Not used: CBD and Menthol Balm.
Ask your doctor first: a high-risk pregnancy, bleeding, swelling, or a history of blood clots.
How the session is set up
You undress to your comfort level in private and stay covered by a sheet the whole time; only the area being worked on is uncovered.
You lie on your side, supported by bolsters, never face down. Later in pregnancy, lying flat on your back can press on a large vein near the spine and leave some people lightheaded. Side-lying avoids that, and it is usually the more comfortable position anyway.
Every therapist at Serenity Zen is CAMTC certified, which takes at least 500 hours at an approved school, at least 100 of them on anatomy, physiology, safety and ethics, and fingerprints on file with the California Department of Justice and the FBI. During pregnancy, the anatomy and safety training is the part that matters most.
How the pressure changes
Above the waist, pressure is medium to firm. The shoulders and upper back carry much of the changing load of pregnancy, and steady work there may ease them for many people.
Below the waist, the work stays light. Pregnancy makes blood clots in the leg veins more likely, so the legs get gentle strokes and never deep pressure. You can change the pressure at any time.
CBD and Menthol Balm are not used during a prenatal session. Hot stones, essential oils and a steam eye mask are available; ask the desk.
When to check with your doctor first
Massage is not the right choice for every pregnancy. Before booking, get your doctor's clearance if any of these apply:
A high-risk pregnancy, or you have been told to rest.
Bleeding, cramping or leaking fluid.
Preeclampsia, or sudden swelling in the face or hands.
A problem with the placenta.
A history of blood clots, or one leg that is swollen, warm or painful.
Contractions or other signs of early labor.
If your pregnancy has any complications, or your doctor has asked you to avoid massage, bring a note clearing you before your visit. Tell us at booking if your doctor has flagged anything.
How to book
When you book online, choose a body massage and add Prenatal under Massage Styles. Tell us how far along you are, so the room can be set up with the right bolsters and positioning. Or call either studio and the desk will set it up.
From Dr. Nick, DAOM L.Ac.
Pregnancy changes where the body carries its load, week by week. Side-lying support and a lighter hand below the waist let us work the shoulders and back that are doing the carrying.
Common questions
Is massage safe in the first trimester?
Prenatal massage is available at every stage of pregnancy. If you have any complications, or your doctor has flagged anything, get clearance first and bring a note.
Can I lie face down with a special pillow?
Not here. Every prenatal massage is done side-lying and bolstered, which keeps you off your belly and off your back.
Can I get a massage after delivery?
Yes. Prenatal massage is available after delivery too. If you had a cesarean or complications, check with your doctor first.
How firm will it be?
Medium to firm above the waist, light below. Tell your therapist if you want a change at any point.
Book your massage
Serenity Zen has studios in West Covina and Diamond Bar. Open daily, 10 AM to 9 PM.