Prenatal vs Postnatal Massage: What’s the Difference and When Is It Appropriate?
Pregnancy changes your body.
Giving birth changes it again.
So why would prenatal massage and postnatal massage be treated as if they are the same thing?
They aren’t.
A pregnant woman’s body has different needs from a woman who has recently given birth. During pregnancy, massage needs to account for the growing abdomen, positioning and the physical changes of pregnancy. After childbirth, the focus shifts toward recovery, fatigue, feeding and caring for a newborn, while the mother may also be recovering from vaginal birth, a cesarean incision or other childbirth-related changes.
That is why choosing between prenatal and postnatal massage isn’t simply about asking:
“Alin ang mas relaxing?”
The better question is:
“Nasaan na ako sa pregnancy or postpartum journey, and is massage appropriate for me right now?”
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says massage can be a way to relax during pregnancy and recommends that pregnant clients tell their massage therapist they are pregnant. ACOG also notes that side-lying is the preferred position during pregnancy massage and that prenatal massage should be performed by therapists trained to work with pregnant women. (ACOG)
After birth, however, the situation changes. The postpartum period involves physical recovery, emotional adjustment, sleep disruption, infant care and sometimes recovery from a cesarean or perineal injury. ACOG recommends postpartum care as an ongoing process rather than simply waiting for one traditional six-week appointment. (ACOG)
So let’s look at the difference.
PRENATAL VS POSTNATAL MASSAGE AT A GLANCE
The simplest way to understand the difference is this:
Prenatal Massage = massage adapted for pregnancy.
Postnatal Massage = massage adapted for the recovery period after childbirth.
The goal of both may include relaxation and comfort, but the circumstances are completely different.
| Prenatal Massage | Postnatal Massage |
|---|---|
| During pregnancy | After childbirth |
| Considers the growing abdomen | Considers recovery from birth |
| Positioning is especially important | Recovery status determines what is appropriate |
| Usually uses pregnancy-adapted techniques | May need modifications based on delivery and healing |
| Therapist should know the client is pregnant | Therapist should know when and how the client gave birth |
| Doctor consultation may be important for complicated pregnancies | Postpartum medical clearance may be important depending on recovery |
| Focus may include relaxation and pregnancy-related body discomfort | Focus may include relaxation and comfort during postpartum recovery |
The key point:
Neither should simply be treated as an ordinary massage.
WHAT IS PRENATAL MASSAGE?
Prenatal massage is massage specifically adapted for a pregnant woman.
Pregnancy changes posture, weight distribution, movement and comfort.
As the pregnancy progresses, lying in certain positions can become uncomfortable.
That’s why a prenatal massage therapist needs to understand pregnancy-specific positioning.
ACOG says the preferred position for pregnancy massage is lying on the side rather than facedown. Some specialized massage tables may have a cut-out that allows a pregnant woman to lie facedown comfortably, but positioning should be appropriate for the individual. (ACOG)
The purpose isn’t to “fix pregnancy.”
Instead, prenatal massage can provide:
Relaxation.
A break from daily stress.
Comfort.
Time for self-care.
A calm environment.
A chance to temporarily step away from work and responsibilities.
WHAT IS POSTNATAL MASSAGE?
Postnatal massage is massage provided after childbirth and adapted to the mother’s recovery stage.
But here’s something very important:
Postnatal does not mean “any massage immediately after delivery.”
A woman who gave birth yesterday is not in the same situation as a woman who gave birth several months ago.
The type of birth matters.
Her healing matters.
Her medical history matters.
Her symptoms matter.
Her doctor’s recommendations matter.
ACOG describes the weeks after childbirth as an important recovery period involving physical, emotional and social changes. Postpartum care should address physical recovery, mood, sleep, fatigue, infant feeding and other aspects of maternal health. (ACOG)
Therefore, postnatal massage should be individualized.
THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE: PREGNANCY VS RECOVERY
Think about it this way.
During pregnancy, your body is:
Growing and adapting.
After childbirth, your body is:
Healing and recovering.
That’s why the therapist needs different information.
For prenatal massage, the therapist needs to know:
How far along you are.
How you’re feeling.
Whether your pregnancy is uncomplicated.
What position is comfortable.
What areas you want addressed.
For postnatal massage, the therapist needs to know:
When you gave birth.
Whether you had vaginal or cesarean delivery.
Whether there were complications.
Whether you have healing wounds or an incision.
Whether you have unusual pain or swelling.
Whether your doctor has given you any restrictions.
This information can completely change whether massage is appropriate and how it should be performed.
PRENATAL MASSAGE: WHEN CAN IT BE APPROPRIATE?
For many women with uncomplicated pregnancies, massage can be an appropriate relaxation option when performed by a trained prenatal massage therapist.
ACOG specifically says massage is a good way to relax during pregnancy and recommends telling the therapist that you’re pregnant. (ACOG)
But pregnancy isn’t identical for everyone.
If your pregnancy is considered high-risk or you have a medical condition or pregnancy complication, don’t let a spa decide whether massage is medically appropriate.
Talk to your obstetrician.
Your OB-GYN knows your medical history.
A spa therapist doesn’t.
PRENATAL MASSAGE DURING THE FIRST TRIMESTER
One of the most common questions is:
“Pwede ba agad magpa-massage kapag buntis?”
There isn’t a single answer that applies to every woman.
Your pregnancy history and health situation matter.
If you’re newly pregnant and considering massage, tell the spa you’re pregnant and ask your healthcare provider whether massage is appropriate for you.
Don’t rely on social-media rules such as:
“Never massage during the first trimester.”
or:
“Massage is always safe during pregnancy.”
Both are overly simplistic.
The appropriate decision depends on the individual pregnancy.
PRENATAL MASSAGE DURING THE SECOND TRIMESTER
As pregnancy progresses, many women notice changes in:
Posture.
Balance.
Back comfort.
Leg comfort.
Sleeping position.
Energy.
The massage should adapt accordingly.
Comfort becomes increasingly important.
The therapist may use supportive pillows and side-lying positioning.
If a position doesn’t feel comfortable, say so.
You don’t need to “tiisin” it.
PRENATAL MASSAGE DURING THE THIRD TRIMESTER
During the third trimester, the body can feel substantially different.
The abdomen is larger.
Movement can become more tiring.
Sleeping may become difficult.
Back and leg discomfort may become more noticeable.
A prenatal massage may provide relaxation for some women, but positioning becomes particularly important.
ACOG recommends side-lying rather than facedown as the preferred position during pregnancy massage. (ACOG)
The most important rule:
Comfort and safety come before pressure or technique.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PRENATAL MASSAGE?
Massage during pregnancy may provide several wellness benefits.
1. Relaxation
Pregnancy can be mentally and physically demanding.
Massage gives you time to stop.
2. Stress Relief
A quiet spa environment can provide a break from daily responsibilities.
3. Temporary Muscle Comfort
Massage works with soft tissues and may help some people feel less tense.
4. Self-Care
Pregnant women often spend a lot of time preparing for the baby.
Prenatal massage gives some attention back to the mother.
5. Time Away From Work
For working moms, this can be especially valuable.
6. A Quiet Mental Break
Sometimes you don’t need another activity.
You need fewer activities.
7. Relaxation Around Back and Shoulder Tension
Pregnancy can change posture and body mechanics.
A properly adapted massage may feel comforting.
8. Partner Bonding
Your partner can accompany you and turn the visit into a relaxing date.
9. A Pregnancy Self-Care Routine
Massage can be one small component of a larger wellness routine.
10. Simply Feeling Cared For
Sometimes the biggest benefit isn’t technical.
It’s the feeling of:
“Someone is taking care of me for a while.”
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER DELIVERY?
Now let’s talk about postnatal massage.
After childbirth, the mother’s body doesn’t instantly return to its pre-pregnancy condition.
ACOG notes that postpartum recovery can involve:
Back, neck or joint pain.
Perineal pain.
Cesarean incision pain.
Breast swelling.
Bladder problems.
Bowel problems.
Hemorrhoids.
Cramping.
Fatigue.
Emotional changes.
These symptoms vary from woman to woman and may last different lengths of time. (ACOG)
That’s why postnatal massage requires more than simply saying:
“I already gave birth, so massage is okay.”
WHY POSTNATAL RECOVERY IS DIFFERENT
Imagine two mothers.
Mother A had an uncomplicated vaginal birth.
Mother B had a cesarean birth.
They both have newborn babies.
But their physical recovery may be completely different.
Mother B may have an abdominal incision that needs to heal.
She may have movement restrictions.
She may have specific pain.
She may need additional follow-up.
So the same massage routine shouldn’t automatically be used for both.
POSTNATAL MASSAGE AFTER VAGINAL BIRTH
After vaginal delivery, the mother may still experience:
Perineal soreness.
Back discomfort.
Pelvic discomfort.
Fatigue.
Muscle tension.
Cramping.
General exhaustion.
The timing and type of massage should depend on how she is recovering.
If she has significant pain, heavy bleeding, infection symptoms or another concern, medical evaluation comes first.
POSTNATAL MASSAGE AFTER CESAREAN BIRTH
This requires particular caution.
A cesarean delivery involves an abdominal surgical incision.
ACOG notes that postpartum care should include assessment of cesarean incision pain and guidance regarding normal versus prolonged recovery. (ACOG)
That means a spa should not simply massage over or around a recent incision without appropriate medical guidance.
The therapist needs to know:
“Cesarean po ako.”
Tell them when the surgery occurred.
Tell them whether the incision is healed.
Tell them if your doctor has given restrictions.
And never ask a spa therapist to make a medical judgment about whether your surgical wound is ready.
When in doubt:
Ask your OB-GYN.
WHEN IS POSTNATAL MASSAGE APPROPRIATE?
There isn’t one universal day that applies to every mother.
That’s because recovery differs.
Some women recover quickly.
Others need more time.
Some have complications.
Some have cesarean incisions.
Some experience significant postpartum symptoms.
Some are breastfeeding and dealing with severe sleep deprivation.
ACOG recommends postpartum care as an ongoing process and recommends contact with an obstetric care provider within the first three weeks, followed by ongoing care as needed and a comprehensive postpartum visit no later than 12 weeks after birth. (ACOG)
So instead of asking:
“Exactly how many days after birth can I get massage?”
a better question is:
“Has my healthcare provider assessed my recovery, and is massage appropriate for me now?”
WHY “6 WEEKS” IS NOT A MAGIC NUMBER
You may hear:
“Wait six weeks.”
But postpartum recovery isn’t controlled by one universal clock.
ACOG has moved away from treating postpartum care as simply one six-week appointment. Its guidance emphasizes individualized, ongoing care. (ACOG)
Some women may need earlier assessment.
Some need additional visits.
Some have complications requiring more medical attention.
So don’t use “six weeks” as a universal guarantee that everything is healed.
A postpartum medical checkup is also not necessarily an automatic “all-clear” for every activity.
PRENATAL VS POSTNATAL: THE POSITION IS DIFFERENT
During pregnancy, the growing abdomen makes positioning particularly important.
ACOG recommends side-lying for pregnancy massage. (ACOG)
After delivery, the abdomen is no longer the same issue, but other factors may become important:
Cesarean incision.
Perineal recovery.
Breastfeeding discomfort.
Abdominal muscle recovery.
Postpartum pain.
Fatigue.
So postnatal positioning is also individualized.
PRENATAL VS POSTNATAL: THE GOAL IS DIFFERENT
Prenatal massage often focuses on:
Comfort during pregnancy.
Postnatal massage often focuses on:
Comfort during recovery.
Both can involve relaxation.
But the context is different.
10 POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF POSTNATAL MASSAGE
1. Relaxation
New motherhood can be exhausting.
Massage gives you a temporary break.
2. Stress Management
Caring for a newborn can create significant mental demands.
A calm massage can provide a short period of relaxation.
3. Comfort Around Tired Muscles
Carrying a baby, feeding, rocking and lifting can place physical demands on the body.
ACOG notes that postpartum back, neck and joint pain can be related to muscle strain, abdominal muscle weakness and hormonal changes. (ACOG)
4. Self-Care
Postpartum care shouldn’t be only about the baby.
The mother needs care too.
5. Mental Break
For an hour, you aren’t:
Changing diapers.
Preparing bottles.
Doing laundry.
Checking messages.
Planning meals.
You are simply resting.
6. Time to Reconnect With Your Body
Your body has just gone through pregnancy and birth.
It can take time to feel comfortable in it again.
7. Support During a Busy Period
The postpartum period can be physically and emotionally demanding. ACOG describes sleep disruption, fatigue, pain, breastfeeding difficulties and emotional challenges as common issues that may need attention. (ACOG)
8. A Structured Self-Care Routine
Having something scheduled for yourself can be helpful.
9. A Chance to Relax With Support
A partner, parent or family member can watch the baby while mom gets some time for herself.
10. Feeling Cared For
New moms often spend all day caring for someone else.
Postnatal self-care says:
“Ikaw naman.”
10 THINGS TO TELL YOUR THERAPIST AFTER CHILDBIRTH
Before postnatal massage, tell the therapist:
- Your delivery date.
- Vaginal or cesarean delivery.
- Whether you had complications.
- Whether you have an incision.
- Whether you have stitches or perineal discomfort.
- Any current pain.
- Any unusual swelling.
- Any medical restrictions.
- Whether you’re breastfeeding.
- Whether your doctor has advised you to avoid particular activities.
This information helps the therapist understand your situation.
WHAT ABOUT BREASTFEEDING MOMS?
Breastfeeding can involve a lot of repetitive positioning.
You may spend hours:
Holding the baby.
Looking down.
Supporting your arms.
Sitting in one position.
ACOG notes that postpartum back, neck and joint pain may occur and recommends paying attention to breastfeeding positions, supporting the arms and back, and avoiding prolonged awkward positioning. (ACOG)
A massage can feel relaxing, but if breastfeeding-related pain is persistent, consider discussing it with your healthcare provider.
POSTNATAL MASSAGE AND SLEEP DEPRIVATION
Here’s something every new parent understands.
You finally get the baby to sleep.
Then:
Baby wakes up.
Feed.
Change diaper.
Rock baby.
Sleep.
Baby wakes up again.
Repeat.
Sleep deprivation can make everything feel harder.
A massage won’t magically make a newborn sleep through the night.
But it can give Mom a small period of rest.
And sometimes:
One quiet hour matters.
PRENATAL MASSAGE VS POSTNATAL MASSAGE FOR BACK PAIN
Both pregnant and postpartum women can experience back discomfort.
But the reasons may differ.
During pregnancy:
Changing posture.
Growing abdomen.
Weight distribution.
Musculoskeletal strain.
After delivery:
Muscle strain.
Abdominal muscle weakness.
Breastfeeding posture.
Carrying the baby.
Lifting.
Sleep deprivation.
ACOG specifically notes that postpartum back, neck and joint pain can be related to strain, abdominal muscle weakness and hormone changes. (ACOG)
So don’t automatically assume:
“Back pain = massage.”
Persistent or severe pain should be evaluated.
WHAT ABOUT ABDOMINAL MASSAGE AFTER BIRTH?
This deserves special caution.
A recent pregnancy and delivery can leave the abdominal area healing.
If you had a cesarean, there’s also a surgical incision.
Do not assume that abdominal massage is appropriate simply because you’ve delivered.
Ask your healthcare provider.
And make sure your therapist knows about your delivery and recovery.
WHAT ABOUT WEIGHT-LOSS MASSAGE AFTER PREGNANCY?
This is another common marketing claim you should be careful about.
Massage isn’t a substitute for postpartum nutrition, appropriate exercise or medical care.
ACOG recommends gradual return to physical activity as appropriate after pregnancy and notes that exercise can improve energy, sleep and stress. (ACOG)
Don’t rush your body.
Your priority after childbirth should be recovery and health.
POSTNATAL MASSAGE IS NOT A DETOX
You may hear:
“Massage removes toxins after pregnancy.”
Be careful with claims like this.
Massage can promote relaxation.
It may make muscles feel better.
It may feel refreshing.
But “detoxing” is not a reason to replace proper medical care.
Your body already has organs responsible for processing and eliminating waste.
WHAT IF YOU HAVE POSTPARTUM SWELLING?
Some swelling can occur after pregnancy.
But unusual or severe swelling should not automatically be treated with massage.
Especially if swelling is:
Sudden.
Severe.
Painful.
One-sided.
Associated with redness.
Associated with shortness of breath.
Or accompanied by another concerning symptom.
Contact your healthcare provider.
WHAT IF YOU HAVE POSTPARTUM BLEEDING?
Postpartum bleeding can be normal, but the amount and pattern matter.
If you’re experiencing heavy or unusual bleeding, don’t go to a spa first.
Contact your healthcare provider.
A massage therapist cannot determine whether postpartum bleeding is medically normal.
WHAT IF YOU HAVE FEVER?
Don’t book a massage.
A fever after childbirth can be a sign of infection or another medical problem.
Contact your healthcare provider.
WHAT IF YOU FEEL EXTREMELY SAD OR ANXIOUS?
Postpartum emotional health deserves serious attention.
ACOG emphasizes screening and support for postpartum depression and anxiety as part of postpartum care. (ACOG)
A massage can be relaxing, but it isn’t treatment for postpartum depression.
If you’re experiencing persistent sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, frightening thoughts or difficulty functioning, contact a healthcare professional.
You deserve support.
10 TIPS FOR CHOOSING PRENATAL OR POSTNATAL MASSAGE
Tip 1: Tell the Spa Your Situation Before Booking
Say:
“Pregnant po ako.”
or:
“Kakapanganak ko lang po.”
Don’t wait until you arrive.
Tip 2: Ask for a Trained Therapist
Prenatal massage especially requires pregnancy-specific knowledge.
Tip 3: Tell Them Your Pregnancy Stage
For prenatal massage, mention how many weeks pregnant you are.
Tip 4: Tell Them Your Delivery Date
For postnatal massage, tell them when you gave birth.
Tip 5: Tell Them Your Delivery Type
Vaginal or cesarean.
Tip 6: Mention Complications
Don’t hide relevant medical information.
Tip 7: Tell Them About Incisions or Wounds
Especially after cesarean delivery.
Tip 8: Ask About Positioning
Make sure you know how you’ll be positioned.
Tip 9: Don’t Chase Strong Pressure
Relaxation does not require pain.
Tip 10: Ask Your OB-GYN When You’re Unsure
This is the most important tip.
10 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR
If you’re considering massage during pregnancy or after delivery, you can ask your healthcare provider:
- Is massage appropriate for me right now?
- Is my pregnancy considered high-risk?
- Are there areas or techniques I should avoid?
- What position is appropriate for me?
- When can I safely resume massage after delivery?
- Does my cesarean incision need additional healing time?
- Is my postpartum bleeding normal?
- Is my current pain appropriate for massage?
- Are there activities I should avoid right now?
- When should I return for my postpartum checkup?
These questions can make the conversation much more useful.
PRENATAL MASSAGE FOR WORKING MOMS
Pregnant working women may spend hours:
Sitting.
Standing.
Commuting.
Working on computers.
Attending meetings.
Managing customers.
Running businesses.
Then they go home and continue working.
A prenatal massage can provide a quiet pause.
But it should complement:
Adequate sleep.
Nutrition.
Appropriate physical activity.
Prenatal checkups.
Medical advice.
POSTNATAL MASSAGE FOR WORKING MOMS
Returning to work after childbirth can introduce another challenge.
Now you’re:
Working.
Breastfeeding or feeding.
Pumping.
Commuting.
Caring for the baby.
Managing the home.
The physical and emotional workload can be enormous.
Postnatal self-care becomes important.
But don’t treat massage as the solution to chronic exhaustion.
If you’re severely sleep-deprived, overwhelmed or experiencing postpartum mental-health symptoms, ask for support.
PRENATAL MASSAGE AS A DATE
Before the baby arrives:
Massage.
Dinner.
Quiet conversation.
No diaper changes.
No crying.
Just time together.
It can be a simple way for couples to enjoy one another before life changes again.
POSTNATAL MASSAGE AS A “MOM’S DAY OFF”
After the baby arrives, Mom may rarely get uninterrupted time.
So create it.
Dad watches the baby.
Grandma helps.
A trusted family member assists.
Mom gets her massage.
Then she comes home.
It doesn’t mean she loves her baby less.
It means:
Mom needs care too.
BER MONTHS AND MATERNITY SELF-CARE
September.
October.
November.
December.
The BER months can become busy.
For a pregnant woman, that can mean:
Work deadlines.
Christmas shopping.
Family gatherings.
Travel.
Parties.
Household preparation.
Pregnancy.
That’s a lot.
And for a new mom?
Add a newborn.
So don’t wait until you’re completely exhausted before thinking about rest.
CHAREL SPA PRENATAL / POSTNATAL MASSAGE
Charel Spa currently lists:
Pre Natal / Post Natal Massage
The referenced price is:
1 Hour — ₱999
Longer sessions may be available depending on the current service menu and branch.
Because prenatal and postnatal services require appropriate therapist availability and because prices or policies can change, contact your preferred branch before booking.
When booking, be specific:
“Prenatal po.”
or
“Postnatal po. Kaka-deliver ko lang.”
Tell the team your pregnancy stage or delivery date so they can discuss the appropriate current service and availability.
CHAREL SPA BRANCHES
Charel Spa has branches in:
Balagtas
Bocaue
Marilao
Meycauayan
Valenzuela City
For prenatal or postnatal massage, confirm therapist availability before visiting.
OTHER CHAREL SPA SERVICES
Depending on branch availability, Charel Spa offers services such as:
Whole Body Massage.
Swedish Massage.
Shiatsu.
Foot Reflex.
Foot Spa & Scrub.
VIP Head Spa.
Hot Stone.
Ventosa.
Body Scrub.
Ear Candle.
Manicure.
Pedicure.
and other spa services.
EXPLORE OUR OTHER WEBSITES
For massage and spa services:
For hair, beauty and grooming:
For local deals and listings:
FOLLOW CHAREL SPA
For massage tips, spa promotions, wellness content and branch updates:
For massage and spa videos:
Charel Spa Massage YouTube — @charelspamassage
For the latest branch-specific Facebook pages and contact information, check Charel Spa’s official website rather than relying on old social-media links.
PRENATAL OR POSTNATAL: WHICH ONE DO YOU NEED?
The answer is actually simple.
Still pregnant?
You’re looking at:
Prenatal Massage.
Already gave birth?
You’re looking at:
Postnatal Massage.
But don’t stop there.
Ask:
“Is massage appropriate for me right now?”
That’s the important question.
A SIMPLE EXAMPLE
Imagine you’re 30 weeks pregnant.
Your back feels tired.
You want to relax.
You tell the spa:
“30 weeks pregnant po ako.”
The appropriate approach is prenatal massage with pregnancy-appropriate positioning and a therapist trained to work with pregnant women.
Now imagine you gave birth two weeks ago by cesarean.
You tell the spa:
“Two weeks postpartum po ako, C-section.”
That’s a completely different situation.
You shouldn’t simply book the same massage.
Your recovery needs to be considered first.
Ask your OB-GYN whether massage is appropriate and follow your medical team’s advice.
ANOTHER EXAMPLE
You’re eight months postpartum.
Your doctor says your recovery is progressing normally.
You’re breastfeeding.
Your back and shoulders feel tired from carrying and feeding the baby.
Now your therapist has different information.
You’re no longer pregnant.
The abdomen isn’t the same positioning concern.
But breastfeeding posture, muscle tension and postpartum recovery may matter.
That’s why:
Prenatal ≠ Postnatal.
WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER HIDE YOUR PREGNANCY
Some women think:
“Hindi pa naman halata.”
Tell the therapist anyway.
ACOG specifically advises pregnant women to tell their massage therapist that they are pregnant, even if they are not yet showing. (ACOG)
This isn’t about judging you.
It’s about choosing the appropriate approach.
WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER HIDE A RECENT CESAREAN
The same principle applies after delivery.
If you recently had a C-section:
Tell the therapist.
The therapist needs to know.
Your incision and recovery can affect positioning and what areas should be avoided.
THE BIGGEST MISTAKE: THINKING MASSAGE IS ALWAYS SAFE
Massage is generally considered low-risk when performed appropriately, but “massage” covers many different techniques and situations.
A gentle prenatal massage is different from vigorous deep-tissue work.
A healthy postpartum woman months after delivery is different from someone recovering from surgery.
That’s why context matters.
THE SECOND BIGGEST MISTAKE: THINKING MORE PAIN = BETTER
This applies to everyone.
But it’s especially important during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Don’t say:
“Mas malakas pa po.”
just because you think stronger is better.
Your goal should be:
Comfortable and appropriate relaxation.
THE THIRD BIGGEST MISTAKE: USING MASSAGE INSTEAD OF MEDICAL CARE
Massage is not:
An OB consultation.
A wound check.
A postpartum checkup.
An emergency service.
A treatment for infection.
A treatment for severe bleeding.
A treatment for postpartum depression.
If something concerning is happening, see a healthcare professional.
QUESTION FOR MOMS
If you’re pregnant or recently gave birth, which one sounds more like you?
A. “Pregnant ako and gusto ko lang mag-relax.”
B. “Kakapanganak ko lang and sobrang pagod ko.”
C. “Pregnant ako pero may medical concern ako, so I’ll ask my OB first.”
D. “Postpartum ako and gusto ko malaman kung kailan safe magpa-massage.”
Comment your answer.
And tell us:
Where are you reading from?
And:
What time of day do you feel most tired?
Morning?
Afternoon?
After work?
Late at night?
SHARE THIS WITH A MOM-TO-BE OR NEW MOM
Know someone who’s pregnant?
Send this to her.
Know someone who just gave birth?
Send it to her too.
Not because she necessarily needs a massage.
But because she should know the difference between:
Prenatal care
and
Postnatal recovery.
And she should know when to ask her doctor before visiting a spa.
CONCLUSION: THE RIGHT MASSAGE DEPENDS ON THE STAGE OF YOUR JOURNEY
Prenatal and postnatal massage may sound similar.
But they serve women at two very different stages.
Prenatal Massage is designed around the needs of the pregnant body.
The growing abdomen.
Changing posture.
Pregnancy positioning.
Comfort.
Relaxation.
The therapist needs to know you’re pregnant and should be appropriately trained. ACOG recommends side-lying as the preferred pregnancy massage position. (ACOG)
Postnatal Massage is designed around recovery after childbirth.
The mother may be dealing with:
Fatigue.
Muscle tension.
Breastfeeding positions.
Back discomfort.
Perineal recovery.
Cesarean recovery.
Emotional changes.
Sleep deprivation.
And the enormous responsibility of caring for a newborn.
ACOG emphasizes that postpartum recovery is an ongoing process and recommends individualized postpartum care rather than treating one traditional six-week appointment as the entire recovery period. (ACOG)
That’s why there isn’t one universal answer to:
“When can I get a massage after giving birth?”
Your delivery type, recovery, symptoms and medical history matter.
If you’re pregnant:
Tell the therapist.
If you’ve recently given birth:
Tell the therapist.
If you had a C-section:
Tell the therapist.
If you have a medical complication:
Talk to your OB-GYN.
If you’re experiencing unusual symptoms:
Get medical advice.
And if your doctor says massage is appropriate, then you can look for a qualified therapist who understands the needs of pregnant or postpartum women.
At Charel Spa, the current referenced service is:
Pre Natal / Post Natal Massage — 1 Hour ₱999
Availability, pricing and exact service procedures may vary, so contact the branch before booking.
Charel Spa branches:
Balagtas
Bocaue
Marilao
Meycauayan
Valenzuela City
Most importantly, remember this:
A healthy mom needs care too.
During pregnancy:
Pahinga, Mommy.
After childbirth:
Pahinga ulit, Mommy.
You spent months carrying your baby.
Then you spent hours bringing your baby into the world.
Now you’re learning how to care for another human being.
You deserve support.
You deserve rest.
And when massage is appropriate for you, you deserve a massage experience that respects where your body is in its journey.
Like this article if you found it helpful.
Share it with a pregnant friend, new mom, husband, partner, sister or family member.
Comment below:
PRENATAL OR POSTNATAL?
And tell us your biggest question about pregnancy or postpartum massage.
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Prenatal vs Postnatal Massage explained: learn the key differences, potential benefits, positioning, safety questions and when to ask your OB-GYN before booking. Discover Charel Spa’s current referenced 1-hour Prenatal/Postnatal Massage at ₱999 in Balagtas, Bocaue, Marilao, Meycauayan and Valenzuela City.
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