Pregnancy: Massage is a wonderful way in which to cope with both the stress and discomfort experienced during pregnancy. Massaged women “reported fewer obstetric and postpartum complications, reduced prematurity rates, shorter and less painful labors and fewer days in hospital after labor and delivery” (p.245, Salvo).
 Postpartum depression, as well as depression in general, has been shown to be reduced by massage. Massage is not recommended in the first trimester. Conditions and complications should be reported to your therapist to ensure the best care and health for you and your baby (p.245, Salvo).