At Healing Hands Massage in Hampden, we provide safe, gentle prenatal massage designed specifically for expecting mothers. Our licensed massage therapists are trained in prenatal techniques to help you find relief from pregnancy-related discomfort, reduce swelling, ease back pain, and enjoy a moment of relaxation during this special time.
Pregnancy brings incredible changes to your body, and many of those changes can cause physical discomfort. Prenatal massage addresses the unique needs of your changing body with specialized positioning, techniques, and care that keep both you and your baby safe and comfortable.
Prenatal massage is therapeutic massage specifically adapted for the needs and safety of pregnant women. Unlike regular massage, prenatal massage uses special positioning (typically side-lying with supportive pillows), avoids certain pressure points, and focuses on the areas most affected by pregnancy.
Our licensed massage therapists at Healing Hands are trained in prenatal massage techniques and understand the physical changes your body experiences during pregnancy. We know which techniques are safe, which areas to avoid, and how to position you comfortably as your belly grows.
Prenatal massage can be safely received throughout your pregnancy, though many clients wait until after the first trimester to begin sessions.
Prenatal massage provides significant relief from common pregnancy discomforts:
Back Pain Relief: As your belly grows and your center of gravity shifts, lower back pain is almost inevitable. Prenatal massage releases tension in your lower back, hips, and glutes, providing real relief.
Reduced Swelling: Pregnancy hormones and increased blood volume often cause swelling in hands, feet, and ankles. Massage improves circulation and lymphatic drainage, helping reduce fluid retention.
Better Sleep: Many pregnant clients report improved sleep quality after prenatal massage. Reduced pain and stress naturally lead to more restful nights.
Stress Reduction: Pregnancy can be physically and emotionally demanding. Prenatal massage lowers cortisol levels and promotes relaxation, benefiting both you and your baby.
Hip and Leg Pain Relief: As your pelvis widens and ligaments loosen, hip pain and sciatica are common. Prenatal massage addresses these specific pregnancy-related issues.
Reduced Muscle Tension: Carrying extra weight in your belly creates tension throughout your body. Massage releases tight muscles in your shoulders, neck, back, and legs.
Improved Circulation: Massage increases blood flow, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to both you and your baby while helping remove waste products.
Your prenatal massage session at Healing Hands begins with a conversation about your pregnancy. Your therapist will ask about:
You'll be positioned comfortably on your side with supportive pillows for your belly, back, and between your knees. This side-lying position is safe throughout pregnancy and allows your therapist to work effectively on your back, hips, shoulders, and legs.
Some therapists use specialized pregnancy cushions, but side-lying positioning is often more comfortable and allows for deeper, more effective work. Your therapist will adjust pillows throughout the session to ensure you remain comfortable.
Your therapist uses techniques specifically appropriate for pregnancy, avoiding certain pressure points and focusing on areas that need the most relief. The pressure is generally moderate—firm enough to provide relief but gentle enough to keep you and your baby safe.
You'll remain partially draped throughout the session for your privacy and comfort. Many expecting mothers find prenatal massage so relaxing they fall asleep during their session.
60 Minutes - $95
Our most popular prenatal massage length. Enough time to address your back, hips, shoulders, legs, and feet with focused attention where you need it most.
90 Minutes - $140
Extended prenatal session for comprehensive full-body work. Ideal if you're experiencing multiple areas of discomfort or simply want more time to relax.
Both session lengths provide the same high-quality prenatal massage care. The 90-minute option simply allows more time for each area and deeper relaxation.
Yes, prenatal massage is safe when performed by a trained, licensed massage therapist who understands pregnancy anatomy and physiology.
Our therapists at Healing Hands are licensed by the State of Maine and trained in prenatal massage techniques. We follow established safety guidelines including:
When to avoid prenatal massage:
While prenatal massage is generally safe, you should avoid massage or consult your healthcare provider first if you have:
Always inform your massage therapist of any concerns your doctor has mentioned. We're happy to coordinate with your healthcare provider if needed.
Prenatal massage can be received throughout pregnancy, though many women wait until after the first trimester (after week 12-13) to begin sessions.
Some therapists and clients prefer to wait until the second trimester when the risk of miscarriage decreases naturally, though there's no evidence that massage causes miscarriage. It's simply a precaution many practitioners take.
You can continue receiving prenatal massage throughout your second and third trimesters, right up until your due date. In fact, many women find massage most helpful in the third trimester when discomfort is greatest.
First and Second Trimester:
Monthly prenatal massage sessions help manage the gradual changes your body experiences and provide regular relaxation and stress relief.
Third Trimester:
Many clients increase to bi-weekly or even weekly sessions as discomfort increases. More frequent massage in the final weeks of pregnancy can help you stay comfortable and relaxed as you approach your due date.
After Pregnancy:
Many new mothers continue massage therapy postpartum to address recovery, help with nursing-related neck and shoulder tension, and manage the physical demands of caring for a newborn.
Your massage therapist can help you determine the right frequency based on your specific discomfort levels and budget.
While both provide therapeutic benefits, prenatal massage is specifically adapted for pregnancy:
Prenatal Massage:
Regular Massage:
At Healing Hands, we provide true prenatal massage with proper training and positioning. We don't simply have you lie on your back for the entire session—we use safe, effective side-lying positions that allow us to work on the areas causing you discomfort.
Lower Back Pain: The most common pregnancy complaint. As your belly grows and your center of gravity shifts forward, your lower back muscles work overtime. Prenatal massage releases this tension.
Hip and Pelvic Pain: Hormones loosen your ligaments and your pelvis widens to prepare for birth. This often causes hip pain and pelvic discomfort. Massage helps.
Sciatica: Pressure on your sciatic nerve can cause shooting pain down your leg. Prenatal massage can help relieve the muscle tension contributing to sciatic pain.
Swollen Ankles and Feet: Massage improves circulation and lymphatic drainage, reducing fluid retention in your lower legs.
Shoulder and Neck Tension: As your breasts grow and your posture changes, neck and shoulder tension increases. Prenatal massage addresses these areas.
Leg Cramps: Many pregnant women experience leg cramps, especially at night. Massage improves circulation and can help reduce cramping.
Carpal Tunnel: Fluid retention during pregnancy can cause wrist pain and numbness. Hand and arm massage can provide relief.
Rib Pain: As your baby grows, pressure on your ribs can cause discomfort. Gentle massage around the rib cage can help.
All our massage therapists at Healing Hands are licensed by the State of Maine and trained in prenatal massage techniques.
Heather Gilbert, LMT (Owner)
Experienced in prenatal massage and understands the unique needs of expecting mothers.
Leigh S., LMT
Skilled in gentle, therapeutic techniques ideal for prenatal care.
James R., LMT
Trained in prenatal positioning and pressure appropriate for pregnancy.
When you book online, you can choose your preferred therapist. Each brings experience and care to supporting you through your pregnancy.
How far along do I need to be to get prenatal massage?
Most clients wait until after the first trimester (12-13 weeks), though prenatal massage can be safely received throughout pregnancy. Some women begin in their second trimester and continue through their due date.
Will I lie face-down during prenatal massage?
No. You'll be positioned comfortably on your side with pillows supporting your belly, back, and legs. This is safe and comfortable throughout pregnancy. We don't use "pregnancy tables" with belly cutouts, as side-lying positioning is more effective and comfortable.
Can prenatal massage induce labor?
No. While there are certain pressure points that theoretically could stimulate contractions, avoiding these points is part of standard prenatal massage training. Your therapist knows which areas to avoid.
Is it safe to get a massage in my third trimester?
Yes! Many women find massage most beneficial in the third trimester when discomfort is greatest. You can receive prenatal massage right up until your due date.
What should I wear to my prenatal massage?
Wear comfortable clothing. You'll undress to your comfort level—most clients undress completely or leave underwear on. You'll be properly draped throughout the session.
Can my partner be in the room during my prenatal massage?
Yes, if you'd like. Some expecting mothers prefer having their partner present for comfort and support.
Will massage hurt my baby?
No. Prenatal massage is safe for your baby. You're positioned to avoid any pressure on your abdomen, and the techniques used are gentle and appropriate for pregnancy.
Do you offer couples prenatal massage?
Yes! You and your partner can receive simultaneous massages in our couples suite. You'll receive prenatal massage while your partner receives their choice of massage.
Can I get prenatal massage if I'm having twins?
Yes, though you should inform your therapist and check with your healthcare provider if your pregnancy is considered high-risk.
Healing Hands Massage is conveniently located in Hampden, Maine at 586 Main Road North, Suite A. We serve expecting mothers throughout the greater Bangor area including Hampden, Bangor, Brewer, Orono, Old Town, and all of Eastern Maine.
Our peaceful, professional environment provides a comfortable space for you to relax and find relief from pregnancy discomfort. Free parking, wheelchair accessibility, and flexible scheduling make it easy to fit prenatal massage into your busy schedule.
Pregnancy is demanding on your body. You deserve relief from back pain, swelling, and tension. Book your prenatal massage online now or call (207) 573-1404.
