Pregnancy massage at Cholly’s is a gentle, side-lying treatment for expectant mothers, available from the second trimester (12+ weeks) onwards. Sessions last 60 or 90 minutes, from £55, and are designed to ease back pain, reduce swelling, improve circulation, and help both mother and baby relax.
About This Treatment
Pregnancy changes how your body carries weight, moves, and holds tension and a standard massage isn’t built for that. Cholly’s pregnancy massage is adapted specifically for expectant mothers: side-lying positioning with supportive pillows, lighter pressure than a typical Thai or deep tissue session, and careful avoidance of the abdomen and any pressure points considered unsuitable during pregnancy. The aim is simple relieve the aches that come with a growing bump, calm an overworked nervous system, and give you an hour or two that belongs entirely to you.
In Cholly’s Own Words
“I’ve been practising Thai massage for over a decade, starting in private spas in Bangkok before building my own practice here in Inverness. Pregnant clients need a different kind of care – I always start with a quick chat about how far along you are, how you’re feeling, and anything your midwife has flagged, before I decide on positioning and pressure. I keep movements slow and gentle, focus on the lower back, hips, shoulders and feet the areas that carry the most strain in pregnancy and check in with you throughout. My goal is for you to leave feeling lighter, not worked on.” – Cholly Saidoung, Thai massage therapist, Cholly’s Thai Massage & Therapy, Inverness
Benefits of Pregnancy Massage
- Relieves lower back, hip, and shoulder tension caused by carrying extra weight. If shoulder tension is your main concern even outside pregnancy, our Back, Neck and Shoulders Massage is also available.
- Reduces swelling (oedema) in the feet and ankles through gentle, upward strokes
- Improves circulation for both mother and baby
- Eases the stress hormones that build up through pregnancy, supporting better sleep
- Offers dedicated, quiet time to slow down and connect with your changing body
Is Pregnancy Massage Safe?
Yes , pregnancy massage is widely recognised as a safe complementary therapy, and the NHS lists massage among the options that can help with backache, swelling, and general discomfort in pregnancy. That said, a few simple safety rules apply, and Cholly follows them closely:
- From 12 weeks onwards. Most therapists, including Cholly, wait until the second trimester before booking pregnancy massage. This isn’t because massage is known to cause harm there’s no evidence it triggers miscarriage but because miscarriage risk is naturally higher in the first trimester, so it’s the cautious, standard approach across the industry.
- Side-lying, not face-down or flat on your back. From around 16 weeks, lying flat on your back can put pressure on a major vein and affect blood flow, so sessions are done on your side with cushion support.
- No deep pressure on the abdomen, and lighter pressure generally than a standard massage.
- Always check with your midwife or GP first if you have a high-risk pregnancy, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or any pregnancy complication your medical team’s clearance comes first.
- If you notice sudden swelling, severe headaches, or other warning signs of pre-eclampsia, please contact your midwife before your appointment rather than after.
Always check with your midwife or GP first if you’re unsure whether massage suits your pregnancy
What to Expect at Cholly's
Every visit starts the same way it does for all clients at Cholly’s: a warm welcome, a comfortable robe, and a moment to relax with tea before treatment followed by Cholly’s signature foot-washing ritual, which feels especially good when your feet have been carrying extra weight all day. If swollen, tired feet are your main concern, you may also want to try our dedicated Foot Scrub and Massage. You’ll then be positioned comfortably on your side, supported with pillows, for a slow, gentle massage focused on the back, hips, shoulders, and feet. Afterwards, take your time with a hot or cold drink before heading back out into Inverness.
Pricing & Duration
| Duration | Price |
|---|---|
| 60 minutes | £55 |
| 90 minutes | £80 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pregnancy massage safe, and from which month can I start?
Yes, it’s generally considered safe, especially from the second trimester (12+ weeks) onwards. Cholly recommends waiting until after the first trimester and always advises checking with your midwife or GP first, particularly if you have a high-risk pregnancy.
Do I need to tell Cholly how far along I am before booking?
Yes , please mention your stage of pregnancy and any conditions your midwife has flagged when you book, so the session can be tailored safely to you.
Will I lie face down during the massage?
No. Pregnancy massage is done with you lying on your side, supported by pillows, for comfort and safety — not face-down or flat on your back.
Can pregnancy massage help with swollen feet and ankles?
Yes. Gentle, upward strokes on the feet and lower legs can help ease swelling and improve circulation this is one of the most requested benefits among pregnant clients.
Is it safe in the third trimester?
Generally yes, with side-lying positioning and lighter pressure. As with any stage, check with your midwife if you have any complications or concerns.
Will the massage use oils, and are they safe during pregnancy?
Yes, a gentle oil is used. If you have any sensitivities or prefer to avoid certain scents, let Cholly know beforehand.
Can pregnancy massage induce labour?
No- there’s no reliable evidence that massage induces labour. Pregnancy massage is for relaxation and comfort, not for bringing on contractions.
How is this different from a regular Thai or deep tissue massage at Cholly's?
Pregnancy massage uses lighter pressure, side-lying positioning, and avoids the abdomen and certain pressure points adaptations that aren’t part of a standard massage session.