Pregnancy Massage: Why Side-Lying is the Safest Position for You!
When you’re pregnant, comfort and safety are always top priorities — especially when it comes to massage. Many expectant mothers wonder: Do I need one of those special pregnancy massage tables with the belly cut-out? Or Can I still lie on my back for a treatment?
The truth is, the safest and most effective position for pregnancy massage is side-lying.
Here’s why.
1. Protects Blood Flow and Baby’s Safety
After about 20 weeks of pregnancy, lying flat on your back can put pressure on a major blood vessel (the vena cava). This can reduce blood flow to both you and your baby, sometimes causing dizziness, nausea, or even lightheadedness.
Side-lying ensures that circulation stays healthy and unrestricted — keeping both mom and baby safe.
2. Relieves Pressure on Joints and the Lower Back
Pregnancy shifts your posture and adds extra strain to your hips, pelvis, and lower back. Lying on your side with supportive pillows allows these areas to fully relax. Your massage therapist can then safely access the muscles that are working overtime — especially the lower back, hips, and shoulders.
3. Provides Ultimate Comfort with Pillows and Bolsters
In the side-lying position, pillows are your best friend. They can be placed under your belly, between your knees, behind your back, and even under your arms to create a cozy “nest.”
This makes it easier for you to relax and receive the full benefits of your massage without worrying about awkward positioning or discomfort.
4. Allows for Specialized Pregnancy Techniques
Side-lying positioning makes it easier for your therapist to work on areas that are especially important during pregnancy, including:
- Lower back and hips (relieving sciatica pain)
- Shoulders and neck (so much tension builds here!)
- Pelvic and gluteal muscles (supporting posture and birth prep)
5. Supports Your Body Right Through the Third Trimester
As your pregnancy progresses, lying on your stomach becomes impossible — and even the “belly tables” with cut-outs aren’t truly safe. They can strain ligaments, place pressure on the abdomen, and don’t adapt well to each unique body and stage of pregnancy.
Side-lying, on the other hand, is adaptable all the way to birth and beyond.
The Bottom Line
Pregnancy massage is an incredible way to relieve discomfort, improve circulation, and prepare your body for birth. And the side-lying position is the safest, most comfortable way to receive it.
As both a Registered Massage Therapist and doula, I’ve seen firsthand how much better women feel after a side-lying treatment. Supported, cared for, and deeply relaxed — exactly as it should be.
👉 Ready to experience the benefits of safe, soothing pregnancy massage? [Book your session today]
Hi there! I’m Renée. I have been supporting families of all shapes, creeds and sizes through pregnancy, labour and early postpartum life for over a decade. I am here for you. Make yourself at home and be sure to reach out if you have any questions! 
