Massage Envy Prenatal Massage – My Honest Review After Three Pregnancies

Pregnancy is a life-changing journey, but let’s be honest: it’s also a physically demanding one. With three pregnancies under my belt (my two kids and a surrogacy pregnancy), I’ve experienced my fair share of backaches, swollen ankles, and sleepless nights. One of the things that kept me sane through it all? Prenatal massages.

I started going to Massage Envy years before I was ever a mom, and it only seemed natural to continue with them during my pregnancies. While there’s some positive points to booking with Massage Envy, it’s not always sunshine and rainbows. But if you follow my personal tips, you can get the most out of your experience (and your money!).

How I Got Started with Massage Envy

Back when I lived in the San Francisco Bay Area, I lived near a Massage Envy location. I was looking for a place to get regular massages to help with the tension that builds up in my neck and shoulders from migraines. It is hard to find independent practice massage therapists who are regularly available and that will allow you to book on short notice for the times when you really need some tension relief.

The Most Cost-Effective Option for Massage Therapy

Massage Envy is known as one of the cheapest options for quality massage therapy due to its membership-based pricing model. Unlike traditional spas or independent massage therapists that often charge premium rates per session, Massage Envy offers discounted rates for members, enabling consistent access to professional massage services at a fraction of the cost.

I am currently paying $80 a month, which equals one credit. I can use one credit for a 60 minute massage (not including tips or any extra services). If I want a 90 minutes massage, it would be 1.5 credits. You can always book more sessions, you’ll just be paying the $80+ at the time of service.

Massage Envy Has Convenient Booking Hours

Massage Envy is designed to accommodate even the busiest schedules. With extended operating hours, including evenings and weekends, it’s easy to find a time that fits into your day. This flexibility is ideal for professionals, parents, and anyone juggling multiple responsibilities. Many locations also offer online booking, making it simple to schedule an appointment whenever it’s convenient for you. Whether you need a last-minute session after a long workday or a weekend escape to unwind, Massage Envy’s hours ensure you can prioritize self-care without disrupting your routine.

The Prenatal Massage Experience

Pregnant women can take chillax time during a prenatal massage to focus on themselves and their well-being, nurturing both their body and mind.

Safety First When it Comes to Pregnancy

Pregnant women are generally advised to wait until after the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, entering the second trimester, before booking a prenatal massage. During the first trimester, the body undergoes significant changes, and this period is often considered more delicate, with some healthcare providers recommending caution to minimize any potential risks.

By the second trimester, many of the initial discomforts, such as nausea and fatigue, subside, making it a more ideal time to enjoy the benefits of massage therapy. Prenatal massages during this stage can safely address backaches, muscle tension and stress.

Finding the Right Massage Therapist

Firstly, not all massage therapists at Massage Envy are certified to do prenatal massage. You will have to ask at the time of booking who the available masseuses are for pregnant women. If you prefer a specific gender, make sure to let them know if you want a male or female massage therapist.

After you’re done with your first massage, think about how your experience went. If there was room for improvement, then try another massage therapist. Insider tip, the best massage therapists are always super booked out. So you may have to plan out well in advance to get the coveted time slots.

Body Positioning for Pregnancy During a Prenatal Massage

When you’re pregnant, you obviously can’t lay flat on your stomach, and you’re not supposed to lay flat on your back either. During the massage, I was positioned with special cushions and bolsters to support my growing belly and relieve pressure on my back.

Pressure for Pre-Natal Massages

Pressure during prenatal massages is carefully adjusted to ensure the comfort and safety of the expectant mother. Licensed therapists trained in prenatal techniques understand the importance of using gentle to medium pressure, avoiding deep tissue work or excessive force, particularly in sensitive areas like the lower back, abdomen, and legs. Special attention is given to pressure points that could potentially trigger contractions, ensuring these are avoided. Communication is key during the session, and mothers-to-be are encouraged to provide feedback about their comfort level and preferred pressure.

Skin Sensitivities During Pregnancy

For some pregnant women, their skin can get really sensitive to topical oils used during massage. You can ask for unscented skin products to avoid irritated skin.

---

The Benefits of Prenatal Massage for Pregnant Women

Prenatal massage offers numerous benefits for pregnant women, providing physical, emotional, and mental relief during a challenging time.

Physically, it helps alleviate common pregnancy discomforts such as back pain, swollen feet, leg cramps, sciatic nerve pain and muscle tension, promoting better overall circulation and reducing fluid retention. Regular prenatal massages can also improve sleep quality by helping the body relax and reducing stress hormones.

Emotionally, it provides a calming experience that lowers anxiety and enhances mood, fostering a deeper sense of well-being.

Additionally, prenatal massage supports posture adjustments caused by the growing baby and prepares the body for labor by relaxing tense muscles. This holistic approach to care makes prenatal massage a valuable self-care option for expectant mothers.

---

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Prenatal Massage

Plan for the Months Ahead

As your due date approaches, make sure that you are booking your favorite massage therapist on a monthly basis.

Communicate Clearly

Let your therapist know about any discomfort or specific areas of tension.

Make Sure the Table is Warm

It’s a big pet peeve of mine when the table is cold. So I make sure to ask that the heater is turned on.

Clear Your Mind

I know that it’s tough for us mothers to avoid overthinking, especially when a baby is due (I know many of us pregnant mamas are always thinking of baby names!). Do your best to clear your mind and be present in the moment.

Hydrate

Drink plenty of water before and after your massage to avoid muscle soreness and stay hydrated.

Time It Right

Make sure you have given yourself plenty of time to arrive and get settled. You don’t want to feel stressed when arriving or heading home.

Make Sure You Use the Bathroom Before the Massage Starts

It’s well known that pregnant women have squished bladders and need to use the bathroom frequently. It will kill your relaxation vibe if you need to pee the entire time. So make sure to empty your bladder before you lay down on the table.

---

In Conclusion

Massage Envy’s prenatal massages were a lifesaver during all three of my pregnancies. While no two experiences were identical (because no two pregnancies are!), the consistency and care provided by their therapists made a significant positive impact on my physical well-being. If you can avoid too much build-up of muscle tension and aches during pregnancy, then your postpartum recovery will be much smoother.

If you’re expecting and looking for a way to ease the aches and pains of pregnancy, I highly recommend giving Massage Envy a try.

Relaxation Gifts for Pregnant Women

Browse these thoughtful relaxation gifts for pregnant women that provide comfort, stress relief, and pampering during this special time.

Learn More