There are several reasons you might consider having a pregnancy massage (also called a prenatal massage). Pregnancy changes your body and mind, bringing about a wide range of emotions and aches and pains in places that never hurt before.

A prenatal massage may help alleviate some of the discomforts of pregnancy while providing a sense of relaxation—but is it safe? In general, the answer is yes. However, there are some important things you should know before you schedule a session.

First, you will need to ask your doctor if it would be safe for you to have a prenatal massage, as there are some women who should not have massages while they are pregnant.Once you get your doctor’s OK, you’ll need to find a massage therapist who has the training and certification necessary to do pregnancy massage.

Swedish massage can help improve a person’s general body tone, increase blood flow and lymph circulation, improve the function of the joints and muscles, and alleviate physical and mental fatigue.