Prenatal & postnatal massage at home: what to know

Talk to your doctor first

Pregnancy and the weeks after birth are times when your body changes quickly. Before booking any massage, check with your doctor or midwife that it's suitable for you. This is especially important if your pregnancy has any complications.

Massage is a way to rest and feel more comfortable. It isn't a medical treatment and doesn't replace care from your doctor.

Prenatal massage: from week 14

MiMi's prenatal massage is available from week 14 of pregnancy. You lie on your side, supported by pillows under your head, belly and between your knees, so there's no pressure on your bump. The therapist uses light, slow strokes and avoids sensitive areas.

Many mothers-to-be book it for the back, hips, legs and shoulders, which often feel the extra weight. It may help you relax and rest more comfortably.

• 60 min ₫400,000
• 90 min ₫550,000

When to wait or skip

Don't book a prenatal massage before week 14, and hold off if any of the following apply until your doctor says it's fine.

• Your doctor has said your pregnancy is high-risk or has complications.
• Bleeding, unusual pain or contractions.
• Severe swelling, high blood pressure or headaches that don't go away.
• Fever, or feeling unwell on the day.

Postnatal care: what's included

After birth, the traditional Vietnamese approach to postnatal care focuses on warmth and rest. MiMi's postnatal care session includes a full-body massage, a warm herbal salt compress on the belly, steam, and guidance on belly binding.

Ask your doctor when it's suitable to start, particularly after a caesarean section, and let the therapist know how and when you gave birth.

• 90 min ₫600,000
• 120 min ₫750,000

Preparing for the session

Choose a quiet time when someone else can look after the baby, or plan around feeding. Have a few extra pillows ready and keep the room comfortably warm.

• Write your week of pregnancy, or your birth date and type of birth, in the booking note.
• Mention any allergies to oils or herbs.
• Drink some water beforehand and have the bathroom close by.
• Tell the therapist straight away if any position feels uncomfortable.

A gentle, unhurried session

Both treatments are designed to be calm and gentle, never intense. You can ask to change position, take a break or stop at any time. If you feel unwell during or after the session, stop and contact your doctor.

Because the therapist comes to you, there is no travel through Hanoi traffic before or after, which many mothers appreciate in late pregnancy or in the first weeks with a newborn. You can rest straight afterwards, in your own bed, and have a drink of water and something light to eat.

As with every MiMi booking, you see the full price in the app before you confirm, pay the therapist directly in cash or by VietQR transfer, and MiMi is No Tip.