The Ultimate Guide to Portland Oregon Prenatal Massage: An Interview with a Top Therapist
Pregnancy can bring on all sorts of aches and pains—and let’s be honest, a deep desire to be pampered. Am I right?
That’s exactly why I started looking into Portland Oregon prenatal massage and what it can actually do for expecting parents. Is it just about feeling relaxed and indulged? Or can it actually help with things like labor prep, better sleep, and stress relief? I had so many questions, so I decided to go straight to the source: a local expert in prenatal bodywork.
I recently met Morgan Corona at a networking event and was immediately drawn to her calm, kind energy. When we discovered we both work with expecting parents, we knew we had to connect further. We met up at her massage studio—and let me tell you, the space is incredibly peaceful and welcoming. I could instantly imagine how comforting it must feel for her clients, especially during pregnancy.
Morgan brings a beautiful, holistic approach to her work. She incorporates herbs like rosemary and lemon balm into her sessions, and during our visit, we lit some cinnamon together—it smelled amazing and added to the soothing atmosphere. After getting to know her, I knew she’d be the perfect person to feature as I relaunch my community connections blog post series (formerly known as the Women Warriors Series).
I’m so excited to share our interview on the blog today. If you’ve ever been curious about the benefits of prenatal massage in Portland, this is your sign to learn more. Morgan has some incredible insight to share—enjoy!
Meet Morgan Corona, Licensed Massage Therapist & Doula in Portland, Oregon
Morgan Corona (she/her) is a Licensed Massage Therapist and doula, and the heart behind La Luz Massage. Her cozy, plant-filled practice is located in the Hollywood District of Portland, OR inside a beautiful blue house known as Temple Medicine Healing. Morgan specializes in Maya Abdominal Massage and prenatal massage and has a deep passion for supporting pregnant people through every stage of their journey.
Q&A: All About Portland Prenatal Massage with Morgan Corona
What exactly is prenatal massage, and how does it differ from regular massage therapy?
Prenatal massage is bodywork specifically designed for pregnant people. Like other massage modalities, it’s relaxing and targets areas of tension—but it also accounts for the unique comfort and safety needs of a pregnant body. We use special pillows for positioning and techniques that address pregnancy-related discomforts like low back pain, swelling, and hip dysfunction, while also supporting the nervous system. There’s even evidence that regular prenatal massage can improve labor outcomes!
Are there any specific techniques used in Portland Oregon prenatal massage? What are the benefits for the pregnant person?
In my practice, I use a lot of Myofascial Release, which offers deep relief from tension and pain while being gentle and slow. I also use Maya Abdominal Massage to ease heartburn, treat round ligament pain, and make space for breech babies to turn. Other techniques I often incorporate include:
- Lymphatic Drainage to reduce swelling
- Swedish massage to support circulation
- Reflexology and Acupressure for overall balance
Can prenatal massage help with common pregnancy discomforts like back pain and swelling?
Oh yes—absolutely! These are some of the most common concerns I see. With techniques like Myofascial Release and Lymphatic Drainage, we can provide relief from these issues. Most of my clients leave their sessions feeling significantly better than when they arrived.
How do you ensure the safety and comfort of pregnant clients during a massage?
My background includes extensive training in prenatal massage, which is the foundation of creating a safe experience. During our first session, I conduct a thorough intake to understand your pregnancy journey so far. I primarily use side-lying positioning, which takes pressure off the uterine ligaments and offers maximum comfort.
As a doula, I’m deeply attuned to positioning and body awareness, and I always check in during the session to ensure everything feels good. I work only to your comfort level—always.
When should someone start receiving prenatal massages? Can they be done throughout the entire pregnancy?
Yes! Prenatal massage can be done throughout the entire pregnancy. Some massage therapists avoid working with clients in the first trimester due to liability concerns, but there’s currently no evidence that suggests massage causes harm in early pregnancy.
Ideally, you can begin as soon as you feel comfortable with therapeutic touch. For some, that’s the first trimester; for others, it’s later. I see massage as preventative healthcare—the more we care for our physical and emotional bodies during pregnancy, the better we feel.
What kind of equipment do you use to support comfort during a prenatal massage?
One of my clients once called me the “pillow queen”—and it’s true! I use all kinds of bolsters, wedge pillows, belly pillows, and even prone cushions so you can lay face-down (though I use this option cautiously after the second trimester). Each tool is chosen with your comfort and safety in mind.
Can you personalize the massage for individual needs or areas of discomfort?
Absolutely. Every session begins with a check-in where we discuss your needs and goals for that day. I listen deeply and create a treatment plan that’s both intuitive and intentional. Each massage is holistic and tailored to the client’s unique pregnancy journey.
How does prenatal massage integrate with other prenatal care like acupuncture or chiropractic?
Prenatal massage works beautifully alongside other modalities like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and pelvic floor therapy. For example, I’ve had clients receiving acupuncture for nausea and coming to me for insomnia—together, we created a care plan that resolved both issues with regular complementary sessions.
How do you support people with high-risk pregnancies?
I have experience working with high-risk pregnancies and always begin by ensuring their care team has approved massage therapy. Once cleared, I focus on positioning them in the safest, coziest way possible. Massage can be incredibly helpful in reducing stress and anxiety for people carrying high-risk pregnancies—it’s often a much-needed moment of calm.
What postpartum massage services do you offer, and how do they help new mothers?
I offer Maya Abdominal Massage for postpartum clients—a sacred, traditional practice usually done daily for the first forty days after birth. This treatment includes work on the back, hips, chest, head, and belly. It finishes with a herbal belly wrap (la faja) using fresh herbs.
This treatment supports organ repositioning, helps regulate the nervous system, promotes tissue healing (especially after cesarean birth), and supports healing from diastasis recti, prolapse, and incontinence. It’s also deeply nourishing and grounding for new mothers navigating early postpartum life.
Do you offer packages or ongoing care plans for regular prenatal massage?
Yes! I recommend at least monthly massages during pregnancy—biweekly if possible, especially in the third trimester. I’m currently developing a prenatal care package, so stay tuned by subscribing to my newsletter for updates.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work as a portland oregon prenatal massage therapist?
I love seeing the look of relief and bliss when a client leaves the massage room. Supporting pregnant people so they can carry their babies with more ease—in both their bodies and hearts—is such a joy and honor for me.
Connect with Morgan
Ready to Feel Relaxed and Radiant for Your Maternity Photos?
A great way to prepare for your maternity session in Portland is by treating yourself to a prenatal massage 1–2 days beforehand. You’ll feel more relaxed, grounded, and comfortable—inside and out—which always shines through in your photos.
✨ Check out my maternity portfolio for inspiration and start dreaming up your own beautiful session.
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