As your pregnancy progresses, you may notice occasional twinges or pressure in your body more often. A relaxing massage can be just what you need—it not only relieves tension, but also creates intimate moments for you and your partner with your baby. Below, we’ll share the additional benefits of massage and provide instructions for suitable techniques.

Is a massage safe to perform during pregnancy?

If your pregnancy is progressing without complications, there is usually nothing to prevent you from enjoying a massage—though there are a few things to keep in mind. Some massage studios and midwives offer special pregnancy massages. However, you can also easily do a gentle belly massage at home, either with your partner or on your own. Be sure to use less pressure than you might normally be used to, as your connective tissue loosens during pregnancy. If you have conditions such as preterm labor or cervical weakness, you should avoid massage altogether. If you’re unsure whether a massage is suitable for you, it’s best to ask your midwife or gynecologist for advice.

What are the benefits of a pregnancy massage?

A massage not only relieves tension and stress and eases pain, but during pregnancy it also offers additional benefits. When done regularly with a nourishing oil, a belly massage can quickly become a daily Relaxation moment for you. It also stimulates circulation and blood flow, supports the Care of stressed skin, and helps prevent Stretch marks . This positive effect can start early on, even before your bump is clearly visible. From around the 8th week of pregnancy, external touch is transmitted to your baby through vibrations in the amniotic fluid. Around the beginning of the 20th week of pregnancy, your little explorer can consciously perceive gentle caresses and may respond with kicks or movements that are visible and palpable from the outside. A belly massage therefore offers not only you, but especially your partner, a wonderful opportunity to connect with your baby even before birth and to build a Attachment with them.

How does the massage work?

Preparation

For a relaxing belly massage, you can either place yourself in your partner’s hands or do it on your own. If you don’t have time for a long relaxation routine, you can simply add a short massage to your moisturizing routine after showering. If you’d like a more thorough massage, create a calming atmosphere with dim lighting or soothing music. Then, make yourself comfortable lying down, or sit with a pillow behind your back on the sofa or bed. In the last trimester, avoid lying on your back; instead, lie on your side , as your bump can otherwise press on the vena cava and restrict blood flow. This can lead to circulatory problems. Once you’re comfortable, you or your partner can gently rub a few drops of LILLYDOO for mom Pregnancy Care Oil between your hands to warm it up. The oil helps your hands glide more easily over the skin and prevents irritation caused by friction. Almond oil absorbs differently than other oils and takes longer to soak in, so just a few drops are enough for a thorough massage. If you like, you can also mix the neutral oil with a natural essential oil such as chamomile, lavender, rose, or citrus. Avoid oils such as clove, cinnamon, sage, cardamom, or rosemary, as they may potentially stimulate contractions.

In this video, our LILLYDOO midwife Sissi explains in detail how belly massage works during pregnancy.

A massage can be a lovely ritual for you and your partner—and your baby will often enjoy a belly massage, too. Before long, you may be able to feel their movements in response to gentle touch, helping you connect even before birth. We wish you many relaxing moments throughout your pregnancy!