Exclusive perks for Hong Kong Madame readers: Mention Hong Kong Madame with your online booking and enjoy a $150 (HKD) off your first treatment with Urban Motion (valid for a session of 75-minute or longer). Click here for online booking.
Without my family nearby and as one of the first in my friend group to enter the world of motherhood a few years ago, I often found myself searching for trusted resources and experts to guide me through.
Take massages, for example - because yes, treating yourself to a little pampering is nice, but when you’re growing (or recovering from growing) a tiny human, comfort becomes a necessity, not a luxury. And believe me, I’m speaking from experience. But then come the questions: Is it safe? Can I go just anywhere for a massage? Do I need to worry that some treatments aren’t pregnancy- or postpartum-friendly?
I had so many questions back then - and such a need for prenatal massages - that I decided to partner with Urban Motion to put together this essential guide. Whether you’re expecting or navigating the fourth trimester, I hope this helps answer some of the questions you may have.
Take massages, for example - because yes, treating yourself to a little pampering is nice, but when you’re growing (or recovering from growing) a tiny human, comfort becomes a necessity, not a luxury. And believe me, I’m speaking from experience. But then come the questions: Is it safe? Can I go just anywhere for a massage? Do I need to worry that some treatments aren’t pregnancy- or postpartum-friendly?
I had so many questions back then - and such a need for prenatal massages - that I decided to partner with Urban Motion to put together this essential guide. Whether you’re expecting or navigating the fourth trimester, I hope this helps answer some of the questions you may have.
Pregnancy & Postpartum Massage: Your Questions Answered
What should I look for in a prenatal massage therapist?
Not all massages are created equal—especially when you’re pregnant. Look for a therapist with specialised training in prenatal techniques. They should understand the physical and emotional changes during pregnancy and know how to adapt their techniques for your comfort and safety.
What are the benefits of prenatal massage?
Where do we start? Prenatal massage can help relieve discomfort in the neck, shoulders, breast, back, ribcage, hips, and pelvis, ease swelling – especially in face, hand, legs, and feet - and promote relaxation. It also improves circulation and can even enhance sleep quality. Plus, it’s an excellent way to carve out a little "me time" before baby arrives!
Is prenatal massage safe throughout my entire pregnancy?
Absolutely! Prenatal massage is safe in all trimesters (1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimesters) when performed by a trained professional. In your first trimester, it is safe to receive a massage, however, if you’re nervous or worried about it, it’s totally ok to wait until your second trimester. Just make sure to communicate any concerns and changes in your health with your therapist so they can adjust their techniques accordingly. The aim is for you to feel comfortable, and for the massage to be safe and effective throughout the entire process.
Are there specific techniques used in prenatal massage?
Yes! Swedish massage is commonly used, along with targeted work on the neck, shoulders, lower back, hips, and legs. Urban Motion therapists are particularly skilled at relieving sciatic pain and pelvic pressure. They also offer breast massage to help ease engorgement during pregnancy and postpartum. For extra comfort, they use pregnancy pillows that allow you to lie face-down—something that feels like a dream when you’re carrying extra weight at the front!
How long does a typical prenatal massage session last?
Sessions typically last 60 to 90 minutes. At Urban Motion, the focus is on tailoring each session to your needs, with the added bonus of expert advice on self-care exercises and stretches you can do at home.
Can I continue massage therapy after giving birth?
Yes! Postnatal massage is incredibly beneficial for recovery, relieving tension, and supporting emotional well-being. Labour is no joke, and a good massage can help you feel more like yourself again. Modifications in techniques, pressure, and areas of focus may be applied depending on mum’s recovery, and if you had a vaginal or c-section birth.
What should I wear for a prenatal massage?
Comfort is key. Loose clothing works, but many clients prefer to undress down to their underwear for full therapeutic benefits. The most important thing is that you feel at ease.
How often should I get a prenatal or postnatal massage?
That depends on your body and lifestyle. Some women find weekly sessions beneficial, while others opt for biweekly or monthly. Later in pregnancy, as aches and pains become more noticeable, more frequent sessions can be a game changer.
Can I bring my partner along to the session?
Sure! Some partners like to be part of the experience and even pick up a few techniques for home care. Others prefer to give mum some solo relaxation time—it’s totally up to you.
What if I have specific medical concerns?
Always discuss any concerns with your therapist beforehand. They’ll take your medical history into account and tailor the massage to ensure it’s both safe and beneficial.
Why Urban Motion?
With massage therapists trained in Canada and over 1,000 hours of experience working with pregnant and postpartum clients, Urban Motion understands the unique needs of mums-to-be and new mums. Their approach is all about personalised care - whether you’re one week pregnant or 41 weeks in and desperate for relief, they create safe, bespoke treatments based on your needs.
Urban Motion’s pregnancy and postpartum massages aren’t just about relaxation - they’re about helping your body adjust, recover, and feel its best through every stage of motherhood.
So if you’re feeling those pregnancy aches, navigating postpartum recovery, or just in need of a little well-earned self-care, you know where to go!
Exclusive perks for Hong Kong Madame readers: Mention Hong Kong Madame with your online booking and enjoy a $150 (HKD) off your first treatment with Urban Motion (valid for a session of 75-minute or longer). Click here for online booking.
