Being a mum, whether you’re expecting or cradling your newborn, is one of life’s most magical and exhausting adventures.
Your body changes, your mind races, and your heart grows bigger than ever before. But through all the joy and challenges, there’s one thing mums often forget to care for: themselves.
If you’re a mum in Greenwich or nearby, you’ve probably felt it all: back aches, swollen feet, tired arms, restless nights. Sound familiar? That’s where massage comes in. Not just any massage, but the kind specially made for mums: prenatal and postnatal massage, designed to provide you with much-needed relief and comfort.
At Meridian Spa, we understand the unique needs of mothers. Whether you’re glowing with post-pregnancy or rocking a sleepy newborn, we offer safe, soothing massages to help your body and mind feel better. With our expert therapists and safe practices, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands.
So what’s the difference between prenatal and postnatal massage? And which one is right for you?
Let’s break it down, step by step, in a way every mum can understand.
What Is A Prenatal Massage?
A prenatal massage is specially designed for women during pregnancy. It’s gentle, calming, and focuses on the aches and discomforts that come with carrying a baby.
Benefits of Prenatal Massage:
- Relieves back pain, especially in the lower back, where many mums feel sore.
- Reduces swelling in the feet, ankles, and hands.
- Improves sleep by helping your body and mind relax.
- Boosts mood and helps reduce anxiety.
- Improves circulation, which is great for both mum and baby.
Is It Safe?
Yes. When done by trained professionals like our therapists at Meridian Spa, just browse prenatal massage near me and you will find the perfect and safety place for most healthy pregnancy. We use special pillows and gentle positions to keep both you and your baby comfortable.
Note: Always check with your midwife or GP before booking your first prenatal massage, just to be sure it’s right for you.
What Is A Postnatal Massage?
A postnatal massage is for new mums, whether you’ve just given birth or are a few months into motherhood. It’s all about recovery, healing, and rest.
Let’s be honest, carrying, feeding, and rocking a baby (not to mention sleepless nights) puts a lot of strain on your body. That’s where postnatal massage can work wonders.
Benefits of Postnatal Massage:
- Eases sore muscles from labour and nursing.
- Reduces tension in the neck, shoulders, and arms (especially from holding your baby).
- Encourages faster recovery by improving circulation and reducing inflammation.
- Supports emotional well-being, helping ease baby blues and reduce stress.
- Promotes better sleep, even if it’s only in short bursts.
Some mums say a postnatal massage feels like a warm hug, one that helps them feel more like themselves again.
Prenatal vs. Postnatal: What’s the Real Difference?
Feature | Prenatal Massage | Postnatal Massage |
Who it for | Mums-to-be (pregnant women) | New mums (after giving birth) |
Main focus | Relaxation, reducing pregnancy discomfort | Recovery, healing, and emotional support |
Pressure used | Very gentle, safe for pregnancy | Can be firmer depending on mum’s comfort |
Body areas treated | Back, legs, feet, hips, shoulders | Back, neck, arms, abdomen, legs |
Positioning | Side-lying or supported with cushions | Can lie on your front (after 6 weeks or as comfy) |
Safety tip | Only from trained prenatal therapists | Wait until any major healing is complete |
When Should You Get a Massage?
Let’s find out.
For Prenatal Massage:
- After the first trimester (from 13 weeks onward).
- Any time during pregnancy, when you feel discomfort or stress.
- Regular sessions can help throughout your second and third trimesters.
For Postnatal Massage:
- From 2 weeks after birth, if you had a natural delivery (with no complications).
- After 6 weeks, or with GP approval if you had a C-section or more complex delivery.
- Ongoing massage can help with recovery for weeks or even months after the baby arrives.
A Local Mum’s Experience: Real Talk from Greenwich
“I booked a prenatal massage at Meridian Spa when I was 28 weeks pregnant, and I can honestly say it saved my back. The therapist made me feel so safe and cared for. I came back for a postnatal massage 6 weeks after giving birth, and it was like pressing a reset button for my body. Every mum deserves this.” — Emily R., Mum of Two, Greenwich.
Why Choose Meridian Spa?
At Meridian Spa, located right in the heart of Greenwich, we’re proud to support local mums on their journey before and after birth. Here’s what makes us special:
- Specialist Therapists trained in prenatal and postnatal massage techniques.
- Comfort-focused spaces with soft lighting, relaxing music, and supportive cushions.
- Flexible booking options that work around your schedule (and your baby’s).
- Caring staff who treat every mum with kindness, understanding, and respect.
We’re here to listen, help, and guide you through this incredible time with compassion and care.
A Few Quick Tips for Mums
- Stay hydrated before and after your massage.
- Don’t worry about “how you look”; you’re a superhero, and this is your time to relax.
- Communicate with your therapist if anything feels uncomfortable; say so.
- Consider combining massage with other self-care options like a facial or gentle yoga.
Ready to Book Your Mum-Time?
We know that finding a moment for yourself isn’t always easy. But even 30 minutes of rest and recovery can make a huge difference. Whether you’re preparing for birth or recovering from it, you deserve to feel good in your body again.
Visit Meridian spa to learn more, book a massage, or talk to our lovely team. We’re always here for you, before baby, after baby, and every step in between. You can find us at 38 Creek Road, in Greenwich. Call us at 020 8469 1961 or email [email protected] to book your appointment.
Every Mum Needs a Break
Mums, you do so much. You grow life, give life, and spend your days nurturing little ones. But who takes care of you?
Prenatal and postnatal massages aren’t just a luxury; they’re support, they’re care, and they’re for your health and happiness.
So whether you’re counting baby kicks or counting nappies, take a moment to pause, breathe, and let someone look after you for a change. At Meridian Spa, we help you rest, recover, and feel like yourself again.
Because you’re not just a mum, you’re terrific.