Because Every Mother to Be Deserves More Than Just Rest

Prenatal Massage Nurtures Your Body, Soothes Your Mind, and Supports You Every Step of the Way

Pregnancy is a beautiful and life-changing journey filled with joy, hope, and a growing connection between mother and baby. But let’s be real it also comes with its fair share of challenges.

Aches, swelling, hormonal shifts, and emotional ups and downs can make this special time feel overwhelming. That’s where Prenatal Massage becomes more than just a luxury it becomes essential care.

Prenatal massage is a specialized form of therapeutic bodywork designed specifically for expectant mothers. Unlike a standard massage, it focuses on the unique physical and emotional needs that change throughout each trimester.

From hormonal fluctuations and shifting posture to added pressure on joints and muscles, this massage offers safe, nurturing support tailored to your body’s journey through pregnancy.

Tailored Touch for Every Trimester

What sets Prenatal Massage apart is how adaptable and personalized it is. Your needs change during pregnancy — and so should your care. Here’s how we approach it at Real Thai Massage in Lethbridge:

Our therapists are trained in prenatal-specific techniques and know how to respond to your evolving needs with compassion, expertise, and care.

Comfort Comes First

At Real Thai Massage, your safety and comfort are our top priorities. During your session:

• You’ll lie in a side-lying position with supportive pillows and bolsters never flat on your back
• We use gentle but effective pressure suited to pregnancy
• Special focus is placed on the lower back, hips, shoulders, and feet, where most discomfort tends to build

The entire experience is designed to soothe your body, calm your mind, and help you reconnect with yourself during this busy, beautiful chapter of life.

Reducing Pregnancy Swelling with Lymphatic Massage

Swelling — especially in the feet, ankles, legs, and hands is incredibly common during pregnancy. While it’s a natural part of your body retaining more fluids and working harder to support your baby, it can also be uncomfortable and even frustrating.

That’s where lymphatic massage, a gentle and safe form of prenatal therapy, offers real relief.

Why Does Swelling Happen in Pregnancy?

Your body’s blood volume increases by up to 50% during pregnancy. Combined with hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus, this can slow down fluid movement, particularly in the lower body. The result? Puffiness, tightness, and a heavy, tired feeling in your limbs.

How Lymphatic Massage Helps

Lymphatic massage is a very light, rhythmic technique that encourages your lymph system to move fluids more efficiently throughout the body. Unlike traditional deep-tissue massage, it doesn’t use strong pressure — instead, it works with your body’s natural rhythms to gently reduce fluid retention and stimulate circulation.

• Decreases swelling in ankles, feet, hands, and legs
• Improves lymphatic flow, helping the body flush out toxins
• Reduces discomfort caused by tightness and bloating
• Eases heaviness in the legs and feet, especially in later stages of pregnancy
• Promotes relaxation and supports your body’s natural detox process

When You’ll Notice a Difference

Many expectant mothers feel noticeably lighter and less puffy even after a single session. With regular appointments, lymphatic massage can become a reliable part of your self-care routine especially during the second and third trimesters, when swelling tends to peak.

At Real Thai Massage, we focus on your comfort and safety. Our therapists use soft, flowing movements that support your body’s natural healing processes no discomfort, just relief.

How Prenatal Massage Prepares Your Body for Labor

Labor is one of the most physically and emotionally intense experiences a woman can go through but preparing your body for it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Prenatal massage offers a gentle, consistent way to help you feel more relaxed, more mobile, and better equipped for childbirth.

This isn’t just about “feeling good.” It’s about supporting your body’s natural ability to handle the demands of labor physically, hormonally, and emotionally.

Physical Preparation for Labor

• Relaxes tight muscles, especially in the lower back, hips, and pelvic region promoting flexibility and reducing the risk of tension during delivery
• Increases blood flow to tissues involved in labor, helping muscles receive more oxygen and stay resilient
• Eases pressure on joints and ligaments, making it easier to move and position your body during labor
• Improves posture, which can positively influence baby’s positioning before birth

Mental and Emotional Readiness

• Massage triggers the release of feel-good hormones like oxytocin, which plays a critical role in labor by promoting uterine contractions and bonding
• Helps reduce fear, stress, and anxiety all of which can slow labor progression if left unmanaged
• Supports emotional connection many women describe massage as a way to connect more deeply with their body and trust their instincts

A Natural Boost for Your Birth Plan

Whether you’re hoping for a natural birth or planning for a medicated one, massage supports any approach. It complements prenatal yoga, breathing techniques, and midwife or doula care beautifully — creating a more balanced and confident transition into labor.

Some women even schedule a final prenatal massage a few days before their due date to help the body relax and naturally begin preparing for labor.

Labor is unpredictable — but by preparing your body in advance, you can increase your chances of a smoother, more comfortable experience. Prenatal massage doesn’t just ease the journey — it helps you show up stronger for the final steps.

When Should You Start Prenatal Massage in Each Trimester?

Many moms-to-be wonder, “When is the right time to begin prenatal massage?” The truth is — it depends on your body, your comfort level, and your healthcare provider’s guidance.

That said, massage can offer benefits in every stage of pregnancy, as long as it’s performed by a certified prenatal therapist using appropriate techniques.

First Trimester (Weeks 1–13): Gentle Support for Early Changes

• This is the most delicate stage of pregnancy, when your body is adjusting hormonally and structurally.
• Some women prefer to wait until the second trimester due to fatigue, nausea, or miscarriage concerns — but light massage is safe when performed correctly.
• Focus: Stress reduction, mood balance, and gentle relaxation to ease early anxiety.

Second Trimester (Weeks 14–27): Relief and Relaxation

• Most women feel more energetic and stable in the second trimester, making this an ideal time to begin regular prenatal massage.
• As your belly grows, posture begins to shift — which can cause back and hip pain. Massage helps relieve this tension and keeps your muscles balanced.
• Focus: Back pain, hip tension, swelling, and mental clarity.

Third Trimester (Weeks 28–Birth): Preparing for Labor

• As your due date approaches, the physical strain increases and mobility may decrease.
• Massage during this stage helps improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and support the body in preparing for childbirth.
• It can also promote pelvic flexibility and reduce sciatic discomfort caused by the baby’s position.
• Focus: Labor prep, sleep support, circulation, and nerve relief.

Many women schedule weekly massages in the final month to stay relaxed and centered as labor nears.

Massage can be safely and thoughtfully integrated into every trimester with the right care. At Real Thai Massage, we adapt each session to your stage of pregnancy using safe positions, trained therapists, and a calming environment that respects your changing needs.

What to Expect During Your Prenatal Massage Session

If it’s your first time booking a prenatal massage, it’s completely normal to feel a little unsure about what’s involved. But rest assured — your comfort and safety are the top priority throughout the entire experience.

At Real Thai Massage in Lethbridge, we make sure every session is not only relaxing, but also completely tailored to your stage of pregnancy, your body’s needs, and your emotional comfort.

Here’s what you can expect, step-by-step:

Warm Welcome and Consultation

Your session will begin with a brief conversation with your therapist. This helps us understand:

• How far along you are
• Any physical discomforts (like back pain, swelling, or sciatica)
• Your sleep patterns or emotional stress levels
• Any health conditions or concerns your doctor has mentioned

This chat ensures we tailor your massage safely and effectively.

Supportive Setup and Positioning

You won’t be lying flat on your back or stomach. Instead, you’ll be positioned:

• In a side-lying position with pillows supporting your belly, knees, and neck
• Or on a specially designed pregnancy massage table with a cut-out for your bump (if safe and preferred)

We ensure you’re completely relaxed and fully supported before we begin.

Gentle, Focused Massage Techniques

Your therapist will use light to moderate pressure, depending on your comfort level. The massage typically focuses on:

• Lower back, hips, and glutes
• Shoulders and upper back (especially if you’re experiencing postural tension)
• Legs and feet to reduce swelling
• Arms and hands to relieve joint tightness

No deep tissue work or strong pressure points are used — especially in areas like the ankles or lower legs that are sensitive during pregnancy.

Quiet, Peaceful Environment

Expect a soothing atmosphere, calming music, and time to breathe deeply and unwind. Many mothers even fall asleep during the session and that’s perfectly okay!

Optional Oils and Comfort Add-ons

We offer safe, pregnancy-friendly oils upon request to enhance the experience. These can:

• Soothe dry, stretching skin
• Provide a subtle, relaxing aroma
• Support emotional calm

Every session ends with time to slowly get up, hydrate, and ask questions. You’ll walk out feeling more balanced, lighter, and fully cared for both physically and emotionally.

Is Prenatal Massage Safe? Understanding the Precautions

One of the most common questions expectant mothers ask is: “Is prenatal massage really safe?”

The answer is: Absolutely when done correctly by a trained and certified prenatal massage therapist.

At Real Thai Massage in Lethbridge, your safety (and your baby’s) is at the heart of everything we do. We understand the unique physical and hormonal changes your body is going through and tailor every massage accordingly.

When Prenatal Massage Is Safe

• Therapists are specially trained in prenatal techniques, positioning, and pressure points
• Side-lying positions are used with pillows and bolsters to keep pressure off your belly and back
• Gentle to moderate pressure is applied no deep tissue or intense manipulation
• Focus is placed away from sensitive areas like inner legs and certain ankle points that may stimulate uterine activity

When to Avoid or Consult a Doctor First

You should consult your healthcare provider before scheduling a prenatal massage if you:

• Are in a high-risk pregnancy
• Have pre-eclampsia or gestational hypertension
• Are experiencing severe swelling, pain, or headaches
• Have a history of blood clots or DVT
• Have been advised to avoid physical activity or pressure on certain areas

What Makes Our Practice Different

• We communicate clearly before and during the session
• We avoid contraindicated pressure points
• We constantly adjust techniques based on your feedback
• We never take a one-size-fits-all approach to pregnancy care

Why Choose Real Thai for Prenatal Massage in Lethbridge

When it comes to prenatal massage, experience and trust matter. You’re not just looking for a massage — you’re looking for a place that understands your body, your baby, and your journey.

At Real Thai Massage in Lethbridge, we go beyond comfort. We provide compassionate, expert prenatal care designed to support every stage of pregnancy — safely, gently, and with intention.

1. Certified Prenatal Massage Therapists

• All therapists are trained in pregnancy-safe techniques, positioning, and contraindications
• We know what to treat, what to avoid, and how to adjust depending on your stage

2. Customized Experience No One-Size-Fits-All

• Each session is tailored to your needs, trimester, and comfort level
• We adjust pressure, focus, and positioning based on your concerns

3. Unmatched Comfort and Support

• Professional bolstering systems and side-lying pillows keep you relaxed and safe
• You’re never rushed — we give you time to settle in and feel cared for

4. Peaceful, Relaxing Environment

• Our space helps you disconnect and tune into your body and baby
• Soft lighting, calming scents, and quiet surroundings promote healing

5. Compassionate, Clear Communication

• We talk with you before and during your session so you’re always in control
• Nothing is done without your consent we listen, adjust, and care deeply

Choosing the right massage therapist during pregnancy isn’t just about skill it’s about feeling seen, heard, and nurtured. That’s exactly what we offer at Real Thai.

Whether you’re in your first trimester or just weeks from labor, we’re here to support your journey one gentle touch at a time.

Book Your Prenatal Massage Today – Nurture Your Pregnancy Journey

Pregnancy is a time of deep transformation emotionally, physically, and spiritually. With all the excitement, planning, and preparation, it’s easy to forget one simple truth: you deserve care, too.

Prenatal massage isn’t just a treat it’s a tool. A way to relieve discomfort, reduce stress, and reconnect with