Pregnancy Massage in London - Book Yours TODAy

Specifically designed to relieve pregnancy-related muscular aches and pains, this massage is customised to the customer’s preferences and stage of pregnancy.

Please note that this massage can only be performed after the first three months of your pregnancy.

During pregnancy, regular prenatal massages may not only help you relax, but may also relieve insomnia, joint pain, neck and back pain, leg cramping and sciatica. Additionally, it can reduce swelling in your hands and feet, relieve carpal tunnel pain, and alleviate headaches and sinus congestion – all common pregnancy problems. Massage may also lift depression without the use of medication, according to some scientific studies.

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A serene spa room with a pregnancy massage table and soft lighting, ready for a prenatal massage

Pregnancy can be a beautiful journey, but as your body changes, you may experience new aches, swelling and stress. At Spa & Massage, we specialise in pregnancy massage – a gentle, relaxing treatment designed to support the health and comfort of expecting mothers. Our expert therapists understand the unique needs of pregnant clients and provide a soothing environment where you can unwind. Whether you’re seeking relief from back pain, swollen feet or just need some pampering, our prenatal massage helps you feel cared for after the first three months of pregnancy (we only offer prenatal massage after your first trimester).

Experience the benefits of pregnancy massage at one of our six London clinics – all conveniently located across the city. We have branches in Crouch EndBayswaterChiswickEarl’s CourtBelsize Park and Richmond. Each clinic is fully equipped for pregnancy massage, and our knowledgeable staff will ensure you feel safe and comfortable. Ready to relax? Book your pregnancy massage today and treat yourself to expert prenatal care designed for you and your baby.

Pregnant woman lying on her side receiving a gentle, relaxing massage in a spa treatment room

What is a pregnancy massage?

Friendly massage therapist consulting with a pregnant client before beginning the prenatal massage

Pregnancy massage (also called antenatal massage) is a specially adapted massage designed for expectant mothers. Trained therapists use gentle, nurturing techniques to relieve the extra aches, pains, and tension that pregnancy often brings, while always prioritising the safety of both you and your baby. In other words, it’s more than pampering – it’s therapeutic care tailored to your changing body.

This massage differs from a standard one in how it’s performed. You won’t lie flat on your belly or back; instead you’ll typically lie on your side or semi-reclined, with supportive pillows under your bump and between your knees for full comfort. This side-lying position keeps your baby safe and avoids pressure on your abdomen or major blood vessels. Therapists then use soft, flowing strokes (often Swedish-style massage) and gentle kneading instead of deep, intense pressure. Because pregnancy increases your blood volume, they also avoid heavy work on your legs (to prevent clot risk) and may use long, light strokes or lymphatic drainage techniques to reduce swelling in your legs and feet.

Pregnant woman relaxing on her side with eyes closed during a prenatal massage
Pregnant woman sitting comfortably on a massage table with support pillows, smiling as therapist adjusts her position

Safety is at the heart of antenatal massage. We follow expert guidance by generally recommending treatment only after the first trimester (about 12–14 weeks). All of Spa & Massage’s pregnancy massages are performed by certified therapists trained specifically in antenatal care, so you can trust they know exactly how to adapt pressure and positioning for each stage of pregnancy. We never apply strong pressure on your abdomen or use techniques that might compress circulation – every massage is tailored for comfort and peace of mind as your body changes. With six London locations, Spa & Massage makes it easy to find a pregnancy massage near you from a caring, expert team.

Benefits of Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy massage offers relief and relaxation to help you enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy. Because of the many changes your body undergoes, common issues like lower back pain, leg cramps, swollen ankles and tension can arise. A tailored antenatal massage can help address these problems through gentle, specialised techniques. Key benefits of our pregnancy massage include:

Reduced back and joint pain

Pregnancy often shifts your centre of gravity and adds weight, causing muscle strain and tension. Our therapists target areas like the lower back, hips and shoulders to alleviate muscle tension and pain. Studies show that pregnant women receiving regular massage report significant reductions in back pain and joint discomfort.

Improved circulation and reduced swelling

As pregnancy progresses, blood volume increases and fluid can pool in the legs and feet. Massaging with light, rhythmic strokes encourages better blood and lymph circulation, helping to reduce oedema (swelling) in the hands, feet and legs.

Enhanced relaxation and stress relief

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can contribute to anxiety and mood swings. Massage therapy is well-known for promoting relaxation and increasing “feel-good” hormones. Research confirms that antenatal massage can lower stress hormones like cortisol and boost serotonin and dopamine levels, helping you feel calmer and more positive. In fact, pregnant mothers who had massage reported reduced anxiety and improved mood.

Better sleep quality

Pregnancy often brings insomnia or restless nights. A soothing massage can help you relax deeply. Clinical findings indicate that women who had regular antenatal massages experienced better sleep and less insomnia. By easing tension and calming the mind, you’ll likely find it easier to drift into a restful sleep.

Less muscle cramps and headaches

Gentle stretching and kneading of tight muscles can reduce leg cramps (especially in calves) and ease tension headaches that are common in pregnancy. Our therapists listen to your concerns – if your neck or legs are sore from carrying extra weight, we’ll focus there for relief.

Support for your baby’s health

Some research suggests that improved circulation and reduced stress can benefit foetal development. The NCT highlights that relaxing massage may even have positive effects on your baby’s well-being. While enjoying your massage, you’re not just helping yourself; you’re encouraging a healthy environment for your growing baby.

All these benefits combine to make pregnancy massage a highly valued part of antenatal care. As one massage therapist explains, “The No. 1 benefit is obviously relaxation. One of the big issues for mums-to-be is sleeping… massage gives a chance to close their eyes and be truly comfortable”. In short, our antenatal massage can lift your mood, ease physical discomfort, and help you feel nurtured as you prepare for the next stages of motherhood.

When to Have a Pregnancy Massage

Therapist applying oil to a pregnant woman’s shoulders and neck during a prenatal massage session

Pregnancy massage is safe and effective after the first trimester. Both NHS guidance and pregnancy experts emphasise waiting until after 12 weeks before starting antenatal massage. This precaution aligns with the period of highest miscarriage risk; while massage itself hasn’t been shown to cause miscarriage, medical professionals recommend holding off in the first three months as a sensible precaution. At Spa & Massage, all pregnancy massages are performed only after this first trimester has passed.

After 12 weeks, most women can enjoy regular massage sessions. Some people wonder, “Should I get a pregnancy massage in the third trimester?” In fact, massage can be very beneficial throughout pregnancy, up until the final weeks. It can ease late-stage discomfort and also help you stay calm and prepared for labour. (If you are nearing your due date, simply let us know – we’ll adjust the technique, still focusing on comfort and safety.)

Pregnancy Massage Near Me: Because we have six central London locations, you can easily find a clinic near you. Whether you’re in Bayswater or Belsize Park, just choose the nearest branch for your convenience. (See Our Locations below for details.) Once you’re past the first trimester, book a session – many clients choose a weekly or bi-weekly schedule, but you can decide what feels right. Our booking is flexible: sessions start from 30 minutes up to 120 minutes, so you can fit them into your schedule.

Safety and Precautions

Your safety and comfort are our top priority. Our pregnancy massages follow strict guidelines to ensure a safe experience:

After first trimester only

As noted, we only offer pregnancy massage after the first 12 weeks. This is clearly stated before booking, and our therapists always double-check how far along you are.

Side-lying and supportive positioning

You will almost always receive the massage lying on your side, supported by pillows or bolsters. This position is recommended by experts (including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists) as the best and safest for pregnant massage. It avoids putting pressure on your abdomen or the large blood vessels that supply the baby. (In later pregnancy, some therapists use a special system of cushions, but at our clinics we use soft bolsters and a semi-upright table if needed.) Rest assured, you will never lie flat on your back for an extended period, which could affect circulation.

No deep pressure on abdomen or risky reflex points

We avoid any deep or vigorous pressure on the abdomen. Instead, the massage focuses on the back, hips, legs, arms and shoulders. (We also steer clear of certain reflexology points in the pelvic area that could potentially stimulate contractions.) Our therapists are trained in antenatal techniques, and they will never knead or press your abdomen aggressively. All strokes are gentle and tailored to your comfort level. (In fact, the NCT warns against deep tissue massage in pregnancy to avoid issues like undiagnosed deep vein thrombosis.)

Gentle techniques and oils

We use only gentle Swedish-style strokes and light kneading – nothing that would cause jarring or strain. If you enjoy essential oils, we select very mild, pregnancy-safe blends and dilute them heavily (the recommended guideline is about 2% essential oil concentration). We never use warming oils or strong aromatic blends without confirming they are safe. You can also request an unscented massage oil if you prefer.

Trained, certified therapists

All our therapists are qualified professionals with specialised training in pregnancy massage. They will ask you about your pregnancy history, any health conditions, and any discomforts before starting. If you have any complications (e.g. pre-eclampsia, placental issues, severe edema, or a history of pregnancy-related problems), they will work with you to ensure treatment is appropriate or recommend consulting your doctor first. In general, if you feel unwell (high blood pressure, fever, severe nausea, etc.), we advise postponing the massage and checking with your healthcare provider.

Consult your doctor if unsure

Massage is widely regarded as a safe complementary therapy in pregnancy, but it’s always wise to discuss with your GP or midwife if you have concerns. For example, if you’ve had bleeding, placenta praevia, or preterm labour worries, get medical clearance. As one pregnancy massage expert notes, “If you’re in doubt about whether pregnancy massage is safe for you, speak to your midwife, GP or obstetrician”. Our team can also liaise with your doctor if needed to make sure everything is clear.

By following these precautions, we ensure every session is both effective and safe. You’ll be guided on how to position yourself, and the therapist will adjust pressure and techniques to what feels comfortable. Many mothers leave saying they felt totally secure and relaxed during the treatment.

What to Expect During Your Pregnancy Massage

Close-up of therapist’s hands gently massaging a pregnant woman’s calf, with pregnancy pillow visible

During your first visit, expect a brief consultation. You’ll be asked about your pregnancy stage, any previous massage experience, and any specific aches. This allows the therapist tailor the session to you.

In the treatment room, you’ll lie on a massage table specially prepared with bolsters and pillows to support your body. Typically, you’ll lie on your left side (this optimises blood flow) and cushions will be placed under your head, between your knees, and at key points for comfort. Your therapist may use a few folded towels or a maternity pillow to make you feel cushioned.

The atmosphere is calm and private – dim lighting, soft music, and a tranquil setting help you relax. We encourage you to wear loose, comfortable clothing (or undress to your comfort level, with appropriate draping).

The massage itself uses long, gentle strokes and light kneading to soothe tired muscles. Common areas of focus are the shoulders, neck, back, hips, and legs – wherever you feel tension. Our therapists always check with you about pressure. We never apply firm pressure on the belly, but you may feel gentle strokes across the hips or around the sides. For added relief, we might massage your feet or hands, which are often swollen or sore later in pregnancy (note: we avoid the calf muscle traditional calf muscle squeeze used in sports massage, since it could pose a blood clot risk).

Outside view of a Spa & Massage London clinic, with a sign showing one of the locations
Close-up of a pregnant woman’s back being massaged by a therapist with caring hands

We also often include natural, pregnancy-safe oils or lotions to help hands glide smoothly. Afterwards, you’ll be given a few minutes to sit up slowly. You might feel a delightful lightness or mild ache in muscles (as after any good massage). It’s normal to feel very relaxed or even drowsy. We will offer you water and a moment to rehydrate before you leave.

Finally, your therapist might share some simple aftercare tips – such as gentle stretches or positioning advice – to help the benefits last longer. If you schedule follow-up visits, these can be adjusted as your pregnancy progresses.

Why Choose Spa & Massage for Your Pregnancy Care

Tailored treatments

We understand no two pregnancies are the same. Our pregnancy massage is customised to you and your stage of pregnancy. Whether you’re in month 4 or month 8, your therapist will adapt techniques for what your body needs. Many of our regular clients appreciate this continuity of care – we aim to book you with the same therapist whenever possible. All our clinics use the same high standards, so no matter which branch you visit, you’ll receive the same level of care.

Expertise you can trust

Spa & Massage is an award-winning chain of London clinics with highly trained therapists. All our staff are licensed professionals who regularly update their training, including prenatal and postnatal massage. We have a proven track record of helping pregnant clients feel better – just read our testimonials or visit any location to see the friendly team. (You can also meet our therapists online to learn about their qualifications.)

Additional options

To enhance your experience, feel free to ask about our gentle aromatherapy blends (we have relaxing lavender, soothing muscle-blend, etc.) or add a foot balm massage at the end for extra relief. (All enhancements are pregnancy-safe or optional.) And if you ever need other therapies post-pregnancy, like deep-tissue or sports massage to recover, we offer those too.

Convenience and choice

Searching for “pregnancy massage near me”? Spa & Massage has you covered with six central London clinics open late. We offer flexible appointment durations (30, 60, 90 or 120 minutes) so you can choose just the right amount of time. We even have packages and gift vouchers, perfect if someone else is treating you. Booking is easy online or by phone; just select “Pregnancy Massage” on our booking page and pick your location.

Our goal is simple

make you feel pampered and cared for

Many clients mention the compassionate, uplifting atmosphere at our spas. One satisfied client wrote: “I felt welcomed and special. The massage therapist really understood my aches and made me feel so relaxed. I could feel the stress melting away.

With years of experience and thousands of happy clients, we know how to support pregnancy health naturally. Pregnancy massage isn’t just a luxury – it’s a valuable part of a healthy prenatal routine. So why not give yourself this gift? You deserve to feel great during pregnancy, and we’re here to make that happen.

Our London Pregnancy Massage Locations

We have six fully-equipped London clinics offering pregnancy massage for you:

Crouchend

38 The Broadway, Crouchend, London N8 9SU

Bayswater

123 Queensway, Bayswater, London W2 4SJ

Chiswick

46 Turnham Green Terrace, Chiswick, London W4 1QP

Earl’s Court

125 Earls Court Road, Earl’s Court, London SW5 9RH

Belsize Park

173 Haverstock Hill, Belsize Park, London NW3 4QS

Richmond

1a Brewers Lane, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1HH

our clinics

Massage therapist preparing for an aromatherapy massage

Each branch is staffed by pregnancy massage specialists and open late to fit busy schedules. When booking, just choose the clinic nearest to you. All locations provide the same relaxing environment and high standards of care, so you’re guaranteed a great experience no matter which one you visit.

Ready to book?

Select Pregnancy Massage on our Booking Page (choose your location and preferred time), or call the clinic directly. We also welcome walk-ins subject to availability – just ask for our pregnancy massage therapist when you arrive.

Our Clients

See what our clients have to say about how sports massage at Spa & Massage has helped them recover faster, move better, and perform at their best – both in training and everyday life:

our clients

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Aromatherapy Massage

Yes, prenatal massage is generally safe after the first trimester. Major health organisations agree that massage is a good way to relax and improve circulation during pregnancy. To ensure it safe, we schedule sessions after 12 weeks and use gentle techniques (no firm pressure on the abdomen or risky reflex points). Our therapists follow all pregnancy massage guidelines. If you have any medical concerns (like high-risk conditions), just let us know and we can discuss any necessary precautions.

We start offering pregnancy massage after the first 3 months (12 weeks). This is because the first trimester has a higher risk of complications, so it’s standard practice to wait. Once past 12 weeks, you can schedule sessions as often as you and your doctor feel comfortable – many women enjoy a monthly massage initially, increasing frequency as needed in later trimesters.

No, a properly done antenatal massage will not induce labour. Our therapists avoid any techniques or pressure that might trigger contractions. We focus on relaxation and pain relief. In fact, studies show prenatal massage can help you feel more calm and better able to cope with labour when it arrives. However, if you are extremely close to your due date, we adapt the session to be very gentle.

No. Massage therapy only affects the mother’s soft tissues and circulation; the baby is well-protected in the womb. By improving blood flow and reducing the mother’s stress hormones, pregnancy massage can actually create a healthier environment for your baby. You may feel your baby move due to your relaxation, but there is no danger from the massage itself.

It’s simple. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment (you may be draped during the massage). You’ll be given a private room where you can undress to your comfort level. We recommend drinking a little water beforehand and avoiding heavy meals right before. After the massage, take it easy for the rest of the day – enjoy a bath or a rest to prolong the relaxation.

Just think “pregnancy massage near me” and pick the Spa & Massage clinic closest to your home or work. All our locations offer the same pregnancy service. You can find addresses above or on our Contact Page. Alternatively, just call us and we’ll recommend the most convenient branch for you.

It’s easy! Visit our online booking page and select “Pregnancy Massage” under treatments. You’ll then choose your location and preferred date/time. You can also phone the spa. Appointments can be booked up to 120 minutes, depending on how much time you want. Gift vouchers are available too if someone special is booking for you.

We require at least 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling, given the demand for appointments. But please contact us if anything comes up; we understand that pregnancy can be unpredictable. Our team will work with you to find a new suitable time.

If you have any other questions about pregnancy massage, don’t hesitate to contact us or mention them at your appointment. We’re here to ensure you feel informed and confident about your prenatal care.

This Is For First Time Clients Only. Please Go To Our Main Website