The Transformative Power of Prenatal Massage at
- Flor da Vida Women's Wellness
- May 1
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 9
Pregnancy is one of life’s most transformative experiences—a beautiful, powerful, and sometimes uncomfortable journey. As a bodyworker, doula, and integrative therapist with nearly two decades of experience supporting women, I’ve seen how vital it is for expecting mothers to feel cared for—deeply, holistically, and skillfully.
That’s why I developed a signature approach to prenatal massage at Flor da Vida. This method blends my background in physiotherapy, energy work, aromatherapy, and traditional Brazilian womb medicine. More than just a massage, it’s a sacred pause. It’s a moment to honor your changing body and growing baby. I’ve personally trained each member of our team to ensure every session meets our highest standards of safety, intuition, and nurturing care.
What Is Prenatal Massage—And Why It Matters
Prenatal massage is more than a luxury; it’s a therapeutic practice designed specifically for the needs of pregnant women. This massage supports the physical, emotional, and energetic shifts that unfold throughout each trimester.
At Flor da Vida, our prenatal sessions integrate elements of:
Brazilian womb bodywork to support the uterus and pelvis.
Lymphatic drainage techniques to ease swelling.
Energy medicine to promote calm and balance.
Customized aromatherapy blends to soothe and uplift.
Intuitive touch that meets you exactly where you are.
This combination offers not just relief but reconnection. Women often tell us they leave feeling “lighter,” “more whole,” or even “in love with their body again.”
The Benefits of Our Unique Approach
Because our method is rooted in both clinical knowledge and sacred tradition, you’ll experience benefits beyond typical relaxation. Here are some key benefits you can expect:
Pain relief for the back, hips, legs, and round ligaments.
Deeper, more restful sleep.
Reduced anxiety and emotional overwhelm.
Improved circulation and lymph flow.
Enhanced connection with your baby.
In fact, studies support what we’ve known intuitively for years: consistent prenatal massage is linked to shorter labors, fewer complications, better birth outcomes, and even higher Apgar scores.
When to Begin and What to Expect
You can start your sessions at any point during your pregnancy. Our space is specially designed to hold you gently. We provide body pillows, soft textures, and a warm, womb-like environment. This allows your body to relax fully, without strain or pressure. Many clients choose a rhythm of monthly sessions in the second trimester and weekly as they approach birth.
Why We Avoid the Prone Position During Pregnancy
1. Increased Risk of Ligament Strain and Pelvic Instability
During pregnancy, the body produces the hormone relaxin. This hormone loosens ligaments to prepare for childbirth. Lying face down can place undue stress on uterine and pelvic ligaments, potentially leading to discomfort or injury.
2. Potential for Vascular Compression
The prone position can compress major blood vessels, such as the inferior vena cava and aorta. This compression may reduce blood flow to the uterus and fetus. As a result, it can lead to decreased oxygen and nutrient delivery to the baby and cause maternal symptoms like dizziness or nausea.
3. Lack of Long-Term Safety Data
While short periods in the prone position may be tolerated, limited research on prolonged prone positioning during pregnancy exists. A study published in BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth found that while the prone position could reduce systolic blood pressure in women with preeclampsia, the long-term effects and safety remain unclear.
Our Preferred Positioning: Side-Lying
To ensure your utmost safety and comfort, you'll spend most of the session in a supported side-lying position. Toward the end, we gently transition you onto your back (if that is available) with proper head and upper body elevation to maintain alignment and relaxation.
The side-lying position provides a nurturing environment by:
Reducing pressure on the uterus and major blood vessels.
Minimizing strain on ligaments and joints.
Enhancing maternal cardiac function and fetal oxygenation.
If you have further questions or concerns about prenatal massage positioning, please feel free to reach out to us.
Why Training Matters—And What Sets Us Apart
One of the things I’m most proud of is the consistency of care at Flor da Vida. Every practitioner on our team is trained by me in the specific techniques I’ve developed through years of hands-on practice and spiritual study. This ensures:
A safe, trauma-informed environment.
A high standard of anatomical and energetic awareness.
Deep respect for the sacredness of pregnancy and birth.
We know that this is not just a service—it’s a rite of passage. Our work honors that.
After Your Massage: Continuing the Ritual
We encourage you to care for yourself after your session with:
Hydration – to help the body flush and renew.
Rest – to let the integration continue beyond the table.
Gentle movement – such as walking or stretching to support flow.
Prenatal massage is most effective when it becomes part of your rhythm. Our clients often say these sessions became the anchor of their pregnancy. A place where they could simply be.
You Deserve This Care
Whether you’re navigating your first trimester with tenderness or preparing for birth, know this: you deserve to be held. Our prenatal massage is not about fixing what’s broken. It’s about witnessing the miracle of what’s unfolding.
We welcome you to experience this care at Flor da Vida. You’re not just booking a massage—you’re stepping into a sanctuary where your body and baby are honored in every touch.
with love,
Débora Marchetti
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