Massage during pregnancy is therapeutic bodywork, which focuses on the special needs of the mother-to-be as her body goes through the dramatic changes of the pregnancy and childbirth experience. Massage therapy can help women approach these changes with less anxiety and physical discomfort.  Massage enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue. Techniques applied during this type of massage are modified to be less invasive and more nurturing.

Pregnancy massage can be done in different ways. Massage therapy is most beneficial when the recipient is comfortable and relaxed. Positioning during a massage is critical to the safety and well being of both the mother and the baby she is carrying. Therefore AWC therapists will best determine the positioning that meets the clients needs. After the first 22 weeks of pregnancy, lying flat on your back can cause pressure on deep blood vessels, due to the growing baby, thereby reducing circulation to you and your baby. To avoid this problem, pillows will be used to ensure that you are lying down safely in the sideline position.  Side-lying positioning is the safest, offers the greatest comfort, and increases blood flow to the heart.