Prenatal massage, also known as maternity massage, is a specialized form of bodywork focused on the unique needs of pregnant clients. It’s not just a modified version of a regular massage—it requires specific training, knowledge of pregnancy physiology, and an understanding of how to support both parent and baby safely.

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At Mokosh, our therapists provide informed, nurturing care that respects your changing body and helps relieve:

• Lower back and hip pain

• Sciatic nerve compression

• Swollen feet and ankles

• Neck and shoulder tension

• Sleep disturbances

• Anxiety and emotional stress

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Trimester-Specific Benefits

Your body changes rapidly over the course of pregnancy. We adapt our approach based on which trimester you're in:

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First Trimester (Weeks 1–12)

• Gentle work focused on stress relief and fatigue

• Addressing early tension in shoulders and low back

• Nervous system regulation for hormonal shifts
  Note: Massage is safe in the first trimester for low risk pregnancy.

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Second Trimester (Weeks 13–27)

• Circulation support to reduce swelling

• Gentle hip and glute work as your center of gravity shifts

• Support for mid-back and rib discomfort

• Emotional grounding as pregnancy becomes more physically real

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Third Trimester (Weeks 28–Birth)

• Relieving pelvic pressure and sciatica

• Improving sleep through nervous system relaxation

• Supporting posture as baby drops

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Safe Positioning Techniques

During maternity massage in Louisville, safety and comfort come first. We use:

• Prenatal Massage Tables for optimal comfort (lay face down for the first time in weeks!)

• Side-lying positioning with supportive pillows

• Semi-reclined setups when needed

• Avoidance of direct pressure on the abdomen or deep pressure on certain acupressure points

These methods ensure healthy blood flow for both you and your baby and reduce pressure on the vena cava (a major vein affected when lying flat during pregnancy).

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Common Pregnancy Discomforts We Address

• Sciatic pain and piriformis tension

• Carpal tunnel symptoms from swelling and wrist compression

• Round ligament pain in the lower belly

• Fatigue and insomnia from hormonal or musculoskeletal changes

• Emotional overwhelm from mental load and physical shifts

Our therapists listen deeply and adjust each session based on your current symptoms and trimester.

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Our Certified Prenatal Massage Therapists

All Mokosh prenatal therapists are specifically trained in pregnancy-safe massage techniques, including:

• Perinatal anatomy and physiology

• Contraindications and trimester-specific guidelines

• Safe pressure levels and positioning

• Communication strategies for emotional support

• Postpartum recovery massage techniques

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We stay updated with current research in maternal health and bodywork, ensuring that your care is not just relaxing—but informed, professional, and grounded in safety.

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Louisville’s Birth & Wellness Community

We’re proud to be part of Louisville’s vibrant birth and wellness culture. Our clients include doulas, midwives, OBs, yoga practitioners, and growing families across the city. Whether you’re working with a local birth center, home birth midwife, or hospital-based team, Mokosh is here to provide complementary care that centers your well-being.

From Crescent Hill to Dixie Highway, we’re honored to support the strong, intuitive, and beautifully adaptable pregnant community of Louisville.