Pregnancy massage. Masseuse's hand massages an aromatherapy oil into the back of a full-term pregnant woman. Massage consists of kneading and rubbing areas of the body which commonly become tense and painful. It increases blood flow, relaxes muscles, reduces water retention and increases the suppleness of the skin. Massage can relieve the back pain common in late pregnancy, as can the soothing nature and smell of aroma- therapy oils. The relaxing effect of massage can also help women to cope with the pains of labour and birth.