A prenatal massage primarily makes use of the gentle Swedish massage techniques, which provide muscle relaxation to the entire body. The techniques include various types of strokes and movements that are used, which include:
• Friction (small circular movements)
• Effleurage (long gliding strokes)
• Tapotement (percussion movements, brisk tapping)
• Vibration (shaking and rocking movements of specific muscles)
• Petrissage (kneading the muscles)
A pregnancy massage will also cater to the unique needs of a person who is pregnant. Special care is taken to position the woman's body using bolstering (or propping) to accommodate the physical changes that occur during pregnancy (such as the growing belly).
This can include certain body positions, depending on how far along the pregnancy is. For example, side-lying positions are normally used during the second and third trimesters. Lying on the left side is safest for pregnant women, allowing optimal cardiac function and fetal oxygenation.