A nice thread: What massage helps in last few weeks?

[architien]

I'm 31 weeks now, tired I've got a toddler and my feet and legs are starting to look slightly puffy and are achy (nothing out of the ordinary, MW not concerned, normal levels). My lower back is sore and I'm uptight.

I really need to set aside some time to relax and I was thinking massage.

Any suggestions?

Hi Architien, Im 33 weeks and exactly same as you, got a little one, puffy feet/ankles and sore back.
Im going to have a pregnancy massage on Friday so will let know how it goes if you like :)

Ohh yeah and my MW very helpfully and tactfully mentioned to my DP that massaging my feet and ankles would help with the swelling so he now rubs my feet and back every night and doesnt moan cos the midwife told him to do it

DH says he's too tired and it kind of ruins it if I nag :( I've decided to take matters into my own hands and will gratefully receive any suggestions from experience...

DH has booked me an Elemis mum-to-be massage for a few weeks' time. Had one when pregnant with DD and seem to remember they use a beanbag instead of table, and loved the bump massage! My lady said they often feel the babies kick at that point.

Reflexology would be good, but be careful as it is also used to bring on labour...so maybe one for later on?

BTW, lower back massage when you're in labour is divine, especially if you're wearing a TENS machine and they massage the TENS pads, so start training your PH/birth partner now!

Have some Reflexology, it will sort you right out! I am 34 weeks and I have been having regular treatments every few weeks from 14 weeks. A little indulgent, but well worth it. It will not bring on labour unless you are ready and a specific pressure point is concentrated on for an extended period of time. Seriously if you haven't tried it you should give it a go.
I have also been for an antenatal massage and it was ok but a little delicate for my liking.
Hope that helps.

The clarins mum to be massage ia AMAZING and can be up to 38 weeks pg
DH bought it me for christmas and i havent stopped blathering on about it - so much hes bought me one as a finishing work treat :-) ita £43 takes 1hr 10 mins and was bacvk, shoulder, feet, bump massage + facial, all specially designed for bumps so in safe positions etc and using special oils etc
its worth every penny
they are in bogger joh n lewis, debs etc - have a look o nline, e njoy!

I have had the Aveda prenatal massage a few times. You lie on warm water filled pillows designed to make sure all of the weight is balanced and you're as comfortable as possible.

The massages have worked wonders for my water retention particularly in my feet and ankles.

Friends have also recommended that Neal's Yard Mum-to-be massage.

Heaven!

I can second the Aveda hydrotherm massage, I only just had it on Thursday, was THE most amazing feeling! The weight of your own body plus the pressure they can apply really feels like you're getting somewhere, a real relief. I've had a pregnancy massage before on a table with the hole for your bump...don't recommend it as you spend the whole time worrying about your bump hanging beneath you. Plus they can't apply very much pressure on your lower back, in which case, what is the point???

Aveda hydrotherm massage all way.

Should warn you all that the Aveda massage is addictive. I'm due on Wednesday and keep thinking, 'can I fit one more in?'

Does anyone know of any places that do pregnancy massage in the Marlborough/Hungerford/Newbury area? That Aveda one sounds bloody lovely but is it only in London?

I think they do it in Winchester, depending on how far up the A34 you are Moodykat.

Salon there is Mawsons, by the way.