Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it often comes with back pain, swollen legs, fatigue, and muscle tension. According to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), over 70% of pregnant women experience back pain during pregnancy.
Many expecting mothers look for safe ways to find comfort and relaxation without relying too much on medication. One common question we hear is: “Are massage chairs safe for pregnancy?”
At VComfort UK, we provide premium massage chairs designed for everyday relaxation and wellness. But when it comes to pregnancy, there are important safety considerations to keep in mind.
Benefits of Massage During Pregnancy
Massage has long been used to ease common pregnancy discomforts. Research suggests that prenatal massage may reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels by 31% and improve serotonin and dopamine, which are linked to mood regulation.
Common Benefits of Massage:
|
Benefit |
% of Pregnant Women Who Report Relief |
|
Back pain relief |
70%+ |
|
Reduced swelling in legs/feet |
60% |
|
Improved sleep quality |
55% |
|
Lower stress/anxiety |
65% |
(Source: American Pregnancy Association & RCOG studies)
Are Massage Chairs Safe for Pregnant Women?
The short answer: Massage chairs can be safe if used with caution and under medical guidance.
Early Pregnancy (First Trimester)
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Doctors often advise avoiding deep tissue massage and heated therapy during this stage.
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Focus on gentle vibration only, if approved.
Second & Third Trimester
Massage chairs can be used more comfortably if:
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Sessions are limited to 10–15 minutes.
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Programs use gentle massage (avoid strong shiatsu pressure on the lower back).
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Heated features are used at low settings.
Safety Tips for Using a Massage Chair in Pregnancy
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✅ Always consult your doctor before using any massage equipment.
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✅ Select gentle programs → avoid deep kneading or shiatsu on the abdomen.
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✅ Keep sessions short → 10–15 minutes.
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✅ Avoid lying flat on your back after 20 weeks.
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✅ Use models with zero-gravity recline and adjustable intensity.
Research & Clinical Proof
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A 2012 study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology found that women who received bi-weekly massages had a 75% reduction in leg and back pain compared to those who did not.
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A trial by the Touch Research Institute showed that prenatal massage reduced anxiety levels by 60% and improved sleep quality.
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The NHS also recommends massage as a safe complementary therapy during pregnancy, provided it’s gentle and approved by a healthcare provider.
Comparison – Massage Chairs vs. Traditional Prenatal Massage
|
Feature |
Massage Chair |
Prenatal Massage by Therapist |
|
Availability |
Anytime at home |
Appointment-based |
|
Cost (average) |
One-time investment (£1,399–£4,999) |
£50–£80 per session |
|
Customisation |
Adjustable programs, heat, vibration |
Depends on therapist’s skill |
|
Safety for Pregnancy |
Gentle use + doctor approval |
Specialised prenatal therapists required |
|
Long-Term Value |
5–10+ years use |
Pay-per-session |
👉 See our Massage Chair Collection for models suitable for gentle use during pregnancy.
Recommended Models for Gentle Use
At VComfort UK, we offer chairs that are customisable and adjustable, making them safer for expecting mothers:
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VComfort Xavier 3D – Full-body massage chair with zero-gravity positioning, designed to deliver a deep yet soothing massage from head to toe. Featuring advanced roller technology, adjustable intensity levels, and full-body air compression, it helps ease back tension, improve circulation, and promote total relaxation in weightless comfort.
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VComfort Kalkoona Max 3D – A compact yet comfortable chair featuring four super-soft silicon 3D rollers on an extended S-&-L track, multiple auto and manual massage programs, heat therapy, airbags, Bluetooth speakers, and a zero-gravity reclining mode that distributes body weight evenly for enhanced relaxation.
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VComfort iSupreme Max 4D – The flagship, high-end model equipped with advanced 4D massage technology, body stretch, metronome rocking, zero-gravity positioning, heat therapy, deep calf kneading and rubbing, and more.
Why these chairs are a great fit for expecting mothers:
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Adjustable intensity and customizable programs:
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The Kalkoona Max 3D offers both auto and manual programs; users can adjust settings as needed for gentler massage.
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The iSupreme Max 4D goes further with flexible roller speed, depth, and motion patterns tailored to comfort preferences.
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Zero-gravity positioning:
All three models (including Xavier) have zero-gravity modes that ease spinal pressure and support better circulation—beneficial considerations during pregnancy. -
Heat and massage customization:
You can adjust or switch off heat and select gentler massage strengths, which is important since overheating and intense massage may not be recommended during pregnancy
When to Avoid Massage Chairs During Pregnancy
Massage chairs should be avoided if:
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You have a high-risk pregnancy.
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Diagnosed with preeclampsia, placenta previa, or preterm labour risk.
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Your doctor specifically advises against it.
Massage chairs can be a safe and effective way to ease pregnancy discomfort when used cautiously and with medical approval. With benefits like stress reduction, improved circulation, and back pain relief, they can complement your wellness routine.
👉 Explore our full range of Massage Chairs at VComfort UK and discover models that suit your needs.