Pregnancy is undoubtedly an incredible gift to be carrying a growing child within. But it can also be an exhausting time for women. That’s why you deserve a spoil during the time that your body is taking strain. If you are looking for more information on pregnancy massage in Port Elizabeth or Gqeberha, we answer all your questions on the process, the relaxation and the safety of pregnancy massage.
Pregnancy massage in Port Elizabeth / Gqeberha
Oh Baby Pregnancy and Holistic Massage Parlour has recently opened at 108 Villers Road, Walmer, Port Elizabeth. It is run by Madri du Plessis, a beauty, health, skincare and massage therapy graduate of Total Concept Academy. She also has years of experience working in a spa in Cape Town, where she specialised in Pregnancy Massage.
What is pregnancy massage?
Pregnancy massage is a great way to ease discomfort when medicines and other treatments are not safe to use. While pregnancy puts strain on your back, shoulders, neck and abdominal muscles, massage releases that stress.
How does pregnancy massage work?
Before the massage, Madri will take you through a form which asks questions so as best to serve your needs.
During the massage you will lie on your side with a special pregnancy pillow for support, while you are massaged from the side.
Bella Roze products are used which are specially designed for the safety of pregnant women. She doesn’t actually touch your pregnant belly (you can take the oils home and rub this on yourself).
Is pregnancy massage safe?
Yes, if it’s performed by a fully trained, qualified therapist. A qualified therapist will know which areas to target, and which to avoid.
This is also why Madri has a screening form as part of the process. She won’t take you in the first trimester. She will also avoid high risk pregnancies – or these must have permission from your doctor. If you have allergies and blood clot issues – that is also a no-no.
Are pregnancy massage pillows safe?
“Yes, they are there to help lift the tummy and support it while lying on your side and giving your head and neck a bit of a lift,” says Madri.
Can pregnancy massage induce labour?
“No, there isn’t research for this, but it does stimulate the circulation, but you avoid certain pressure points to prevent early labour,” says Madri.
Can pregnancy massage hurt the baby?
“No, you’re not coming into contact with the baby. You must only come from your second trimester to avoid complications,” says Madri. She maintains that she doesn’t touch the actual belly at all.
Pregnancy massage: where not to massage a pregnant woman
“I would not massage the belly”, says Madri, “especially not in the last timester, and definitely not in the first trimester. They can apply their own oils on their body, but it has to be in a clockwise motion.”
What Oh Baby offers:
Pregnant ladies can choose from the full body or the back, neck and shoulder massage. She also offers a boogie legs treatment as well.
You don’t have to be pregnant to enjoy her massages though! She also offers Swedish and Aromatherapy massages for the rest of us!
Opening hours:
OPEN times from the salon:
Mon – Fri : 9am-5pm
Sat : 9am – 3pm
Sun : Closed
Find them on Instagram and Facebook.
Phone Madri: 082 537 8316
Check out this related massage post:
“The Lab” Mobile Massage in Port Elizabeth/ Gqeberha: Personalized Relaxation Delivered to You
Check out these related pregnancy posts:
Paracetamol during Pregnancy: What you need to know
My pregnancy journey with gestational diabetes
Prenatal vitamins: Product Review Roundup: Four Moms try out Chela Preg
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[…] Yes, massage can be safe during pregnancy if you book a prenatal massage. These sessions are specifically designed to cater to the needs of pregnant women, focusing on comfort and relaxation. Always inform your therapist that you are pregnant so they can adjust their techniques accordingly. You can also check out our post on Pregnancy Massage. […]