Pregnancy changes your body in so many ways, and not all of them are fun. There’s the sore back, tight hips, swollen feet, restless sleep, and random aches that show up out of nowhere. While everyone tells you to “take it easy,” that’s not always easy to do when you’re uncomfortable.
That’s where prenatal massage steps in. It’s more than just a chance to lie down and relax (though that’s a big plus too). There’s actually a lot happening inside your body during a massage, things that can help you feel better not just for the moment, but long after you leave the table.
Here’s what prenatal massage really does to your body
Also, how it works under the skin, and why it might be one of the best things you do for yourself during pregnancy.
It gets your blood flowing better
Let’s start with blood flow. During pregnancy, your body is already working overtime to send blood and oxygen to both you and your baby. But sometimes, the circulation slows down, especially when your belly starts to grow and puts pressure on certain veins. This can lead to things like swelling, cold feet, or that “pins and needles” feeling in your legs.
Prenatal massage helps boost circulation. The gentle, steady strokes of a Swedish massage (which is often used during pregnancy) help move blood through your body. This means more oxygen and nutrients are getting to your muscles, and also to your baby. Better blood flow can also help reduce puffiness and ease that heavy feeling in your legs and feet.
It lowers cortisol, the stress hormone
You’ve probably heard that stress isn’t great during pregnancy. It can affect your mood, your sleep, and even how your body feels day to day. One of the main hormones tied to stress is cortisol, and too much of it floating around can leave you feeling anxious, tense, and exhausted.
Here’s the cool part: studies have shown that prenatal massage can actually lower cortisol levels in your body. That’s right, lying on a massage table, letting your muscles relax, and zoning out for an hour isn’t just calming. It’s shifting things chemically in your body. Less cortisol means less stress, and that’s good for both you and your baby.
It increases the feel-good stuff too
As cortisol drops, your body starts releasing more of the good stuff: dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. These are often called your “happy hormones” because they help regulate your mood and make you feel more relaxed, connected, and calm.
Massage triggers these naturally. Think of it like a switch your body flips when you feel safe and supported. These hormones don’t just help you feel better emotionally, they also help your body stay balanced. For example, oxytocin can help with bonding, serotonin helps with sleep and digestion, and dopamine gives you a little energy boost.
So while it may feel like “just a massage,” prenatal massage is actually helping your body work better on a deep level.
It eases muscle tension and nerve pain
As your body changes shape to carry your baby, your muscles, joints, and ligaments have to shift and stretch. This often causes pain, especially in the lower back, hips, and legs. Some people also feel pain in their shoulders or neck from carrying extra weight or sleeping in awkward positions.
Massage helps by gently releasing tight muscles and softening the tissues around sore areas. A Swedish massage, which uses long, gliding strokes, is perfect for this because it’s relaxing without being too deep or painful.
Prenatal massage can also help with sciatic nerve pain, that sharp or shooting pain that sometimes runs from your lower back down your leg. By loosening the muscles pressing on the nerve, massage can bring serious relief.

It helps with sleep (finally)
If you’re pregnant and sleeping great, you’re one of the lucky few. Most pregnant people struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling stiff and sore.
Prenatal massage can help calm the nervous system, reduce pain, and quiet the mind, all things that make falling asleep easier. And with less cortisol and more serotonin in your system after a massage, your body is in a better place to rest.
Lots of people say they sleep way better after a massage, some even fall asleep during it (which is totally okay and very normal).
It supports your emotional wellbeing
Let’s be real, pregnancy is an emotional ride. Hormones go up and down, moods can shift fast, and it’s easy to feel a little out of control sometimes.
Prenatal massage gives you a safe space to pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself. The quiet time, the nurturing touch, and the feeling of being looked after, it all makes a difference.
At Coastal Massage & Spa, we see this every day in our Wilmington, NC space. People walk in feeling stressed or sore, and walk out lighter, calmer, and more connected to their body.

What makes prenatal massage different?
A big question we get is, “Is prenatal massage just a regular massage?”
The short answer is no. Prenatal massage is designed for pregnant bodies. The massage therapist is trained to understand the changes happening in pregnancy, what to avoid, what to focus on, and how to position your body safely.
For example, in later stages of pregnancy, you might lie on your side instead of on your belly. Pillows and props are used to support your hips, knees, and belly so you’re comfy. Pressure is gentle but effective, and special care is taken around certain areas of the body.
At Coastal Massage & Spa in Wilmington, NC, all our pregnancy massages are done by trained professionals who know how to work safely and gently with your changing body.
Book your massage today
So much happens under the skin during a prenatal massage, and most of it is working in your favour. Better blood flow, less stress, more happy hormones, fewer aches and pains, and better sleep. It’s not just about pampering, it’s about supporting your body while it does the amazing work of growing a baby.
If you’re curious or feeling uncomfortable lately, come see us at Coastal Massage & Spa in Wilmington, NC. Our team knows how to make you feel comfortable, cared for, and more at ease in your body, one massage at a time.
