Receiving therapeutic massage during pregnancy is an extremely effective, pleasurable and safe way to relax and reduce some pregnancy-related symptoms throughout each of the three trimesters. However, it is important that the therapist has an in-depth knowledge of pregnancy massage.

All Bella Mama therapists are full qualified with extensive training in pre and post-natal massage techniques. At Bella Mama we ask that you inform your main health care provider that you are receiving massage treatments and keep us fully informed as to any changes in your care. In some cases (for example, if complications have occurred) it may be necessary to adjust the massage according to your changing needs and/or to receive written consent or advice from your midwife or specialist before proceeding.

See our Terms and Conditions

Bella Mama massage balms are made from pure vegetable oils, organic beeswax and essential oils which are safe and gentle to use in pregnancy. All massage techniques focus on the facilitation of relaxation and the relief of stress and discomfort.

If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact us or your LMC

It couldn’t be easier to view our availability or book your massage with our simple on-line booking system. For more information on how to book a massage, please click here

For information about ordering Gift Vouchers and please visit the Massage Vouchers Page. Vouchers can be either couriered or emailed out to you or the recipient and can be paid for by Direct Credit, Credit Card or Paypal.

It is advisable to start having pregnancy massage after 10 weeks. Occasionally you may read or hear that you shouldn’t have a massage in your first trimester but this is untrue.   Massage in all trimesters is safe as long as performed by a pregnancy massage specialist  (see safety facts below).   In fact, setting aside time to receive massage can help you to re-energise as well as allowing you to deeply relax and enjoy the beginning of this exciting time of your life.

It is also safe to receive massage right up the birth of your baby. In fact, many of our clients report that Bella Mama massage treatments are the only thing that kept them comfortable in those last few weeks. We have massaged women up to 42 weeks and even in the early stages of labour!

Note: We can ask for a midwife’s consent if you need a message in the first trimester. We don’t give pregnancy massage in the first trimester in case of IVF babies.

As with exercise, the benefits of massage increase with regular treatments. You become more body aware and experience deeper relaxation with each massage. You can also choose to focus on different parts of the body depending on how you are feeling and where you are carrying tension. At Bella Mama we recommend taking time to have a regular massage every 1 – 3  weeks to gain the maximum benefits.

When you arrive for your massage treatment, you will be asked to complete a health questionnaire. This will help us to tailor the massage treatment individually to your needs. The therapist will go over this information with you as you soak your feet in a warm foot bath and discuss a treatment plan for you.  You will then be instructed on how to lie on the massage table and your therapist will  leave the room while you undress and make yourself comfortable.

During your massage treatment your therapist may ask for feedback on the pressure your prefer and the areas you are holding tension.  You will be completely covered with draping (apart from the area being massaged), keeping you lovely and warm and preserving modesty.  Following your massage you will be brought some water (and chocolate!) and left to dress.  Following your massage your therapist may discuss relevant stretches and relaxation exercises for you to complete at home in between your massage appointments.

If you are more than 13 weeks pregnant, your massage treatment will probably be received in the side lying position on the massage table. This is a very comfortable and strain free position for most pregnant women especially as you will be completely supported with pillows and bolsters, allowing for deep relaxation to occur.

In accordance to the recommendations of many pregnancy massage experts, we don’t use “belly holes” on our massage tables as these can increase the amount of pressure through the lower back and uterine ligaments causing undue strain.

During your treatment you will usually receive massage on your back, neck and shoulders, arms and hands, legs and feet along with gentle joint mobilisations and stretches if appropriate. Your therapist will ask for your feedback to ensure that you are completely comfortable with your massage. If you have any queries about any aspect of your treatment, please don’t hesitate to ask your therapist or contact Bella Mama.

Bella Mama’s specialist post-natal massage treatments are a wonderful way to help your body re-adjust to your non-pregnant state as well as giving you much needed time and space to rejuvenate and relax as you care for your baby.

A post-natal massage can be received either in the side-lying or prone position (depending on breast tenderness and/or C-Sec) allowing for maximum comfort.  As with the pregnancy massage, a full case history is taken with details of your health following your birth noted. A full body massage is then given with particular attention given to areas of tension. This can often be the shoulders and neck when learning to feed but may also include the lower back, legs etc. A warm pack is placed on the tummy for some of the massage and specialised acupoints and massage techniques help tone the abdominal muscles and skin.

Please give Bella Mama at least 48 hours notice of a cancellation. If less than 24 hours notice of a cancellation is given then half of the appointment fee will be charged. Please read our Terms & Conditions.