As the aches and pains of the third trimester ramp up, a prenatal massage can be just the thing to relax those achy joints. Whether you’re struggling with sciatica, swelling feet, or tension headaches, a good massage can help relieve your pregnancy symptoms. (Even the OB-GYN professionals tout the benefits of prenatal massage).
What's special about prenatal massage?
Prenatal massage is done in a side-lying position. The masseuse uses support pillows, so she can work on your back and hips while making you comfortable and keeping the baby safe.
Look for a massage therapist who has a specialty or certificate in prenatal massage so they’re familiar with your specific needs. This can also make a great gift or addition to your baby registry.
Places for Prenatal Massage in the East Bay
We’re lucky that there are a ton of choices in the East Bay! Here are a few of our favorite prenatal massage options nearby.
Glow Birth & Body (Oakland)
The only massage studio focusing on prenatal massage in the East Bay, Glow Birth & Body gives amazing prenatal massages. They have a lovely studio in Temescal and offer 55-, 70-, or 85-minute options. (They also offer a 90-minute in-home massage, which can be an amazing treat in the first weeks after baby arrives.)
Massage for Moms (Berkeley or your house)
The name says it all. If you’re looking for prenatal massage in West Berkeley, Lori Colombo at Massage for Moms offers 60-, 70, or 90-minute massages in her studio (or she’ll travel to your home).
Piedmont Springs (Oakland)
Though their hot tub and sauna are a no-go during your pregnancy, Piedmont Springs offers a prenatal, side-lying massage as one of their specialities. They offer 30-, 60- or 75-minute options.
LunaBee Body (Oakland)
Lila Ann Frechette at Lunabee Body offers a “Mama Bliss Massage” with a combination of deep pressure and practical support for your pregnancy.
Souly Body (Oakland)
Interested in more than just massage? Tsadae Neway of Souly Body has a full menu of prenatal and postpartum bodywork, from massage to aromatherapy to CranioSacral Therapy and much more.
Damiana Carpizo, CMT (Oakland)
Damiana is an experienced massage therapist with a speciality in pre- and postnatal massage. She offers a 60-, 90-, or 120-minute options at her North Oakland studio or in your home.
Massage Envy (Alameda, Moraga, and Castro Valley)
Massage Envy, a massage studio chain, has locations throughout the East Bay. Prenatal massage is one of their options, though not their specialty.
Then Comes Baby (Oakland)
Sadly, the Prenatal Massage program at Then Comes Baby is on hold for now. Maybe they'll bring it back by the time you're ready for one.
Looking for other ways to relieve those prenatal aches and pains? Go for a swim or take to a prenatal yoga class!
If we missed your favorite pregnant massage place, please drop it in the comments!
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