The Association for Professional Therapists

Pregnancy Massage

Qualified Therapist : Professional Therapy

Clinical experience and research tell us that massage is safe during pregnancy when administered by a trained professional. It provides pain relief, relaxation, and has a positive effect for baby and mother during birth.

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READ the Research

For pregnancy and post natal

Use a Qualified Therapist

When delivered by a qualified remedial massage therapist or myotherapist, massage can lead to real therapeutic outcomes. Massage can also be an effective compliment to other therapies. This is supported by research studies which are summarised below.

However, a massage from a friend, or a massage from an unqualified person should not be confused with professional massage therapy delivered by a qualified therapist. The human body is a complex system which is why remedial message therapists and myotherapists must have the appropriate professional qualifications and competencies to provide therapeutic benefits.

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Find a Qualified Remedial Massage Therapist or Myotherapist

Look for the Massage & Myotherapy Australia logo when you choose a remedial massage therapist or myotherapist. Search for a qualified massage therapist or myotherapist on the Australian Massage Directory.

Search for a Qualified Therapist

Who are Qualified Therapists?

Qualified therapists are members of Massage & Myotherapy Australia who are required to hold one or more qualifications. These qualifications ensure the therapist has the competencies and knowledge to provide effective remedial massage and myotherapy services. Members are therapist required to undertake on-going professional development, including first aid to ensure the quality of service remains high.

What the research and clinical experience tells us

Improved Labour Outcomes

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 randomised control trials (RCT) and 3467 patients found antenatal perineal massage led to reduced episiotomy, amount and severity of perineal tears, reduced second stage of labour, and post-partum incontinence.

Reduced Pain & Labour Time

A review concluded that massage may have a role in reducing pain and the length of labour as well as improving the sense of control and emotional experience of labour.

Pregnancy Massage is Safe

A systematic review of 12 random control trials showing that pregnancy massage is safe

Reduced Lower Back Pain

Massage therapy has been shown to effectively reduce lower back pain while reducing anxiety, depression and cortisol levels throughout the pregnant and post-partum.

Improved Anxiety & Depression

A systematic review of 8 studies found massage improves anxiety and depression during pregnancy.

Reduced Epidural and Caesarean

Complementary therapies for labour and birth significantly reduced epidural use and caesarean section.

Reduced Blood Pressure

Massage therapy reduced blood pressure, heart rate and inflammatory markers in hypertensive women.

Reduced Barriers to Exercise

Massage can help to overcome physical barriers to exercise during pregnancy. These barriers include nausea, fatigue, and the discomforts of pregnancy.

Pain Massage

Find out about pain massage

Injury Rehab Massage

Find out about massage for injury rehab

Musculoskeletal Massage

Find out about massage for musculoskeletal issues

Massage for Emotional Well-being

Find out about massage for emotional well-being

Want to Become a Massage & Myotherapy Australia Member?

If you are interested in a career as a massage therapist or myotherapist find out becoming a Massage & Myotherapy Australia member on our website.

find out about membership