So spa so good

"The masseuse did manage to work on areas of tension across my back that I didn't even know were there"

I am: Suzie from Epsom, 28 years old and 34 weeks pregnant

I went to: The Elemis, Mayfair, London

I had: The Absolute Mother-to-Be Ritual (£170) a nurturing Massage for Mother-To-Be, followed by an advanced Japanese Silk Booster facial, 2 hours in total

My day: The Elemis day-spa is tucked away off Oxford Street and Bond Street, sitting in the reception with scented candles and soothing music was a relaxing contrast to the hussle and bussle of Oxford Street shoppers and that was before I'd even had the treatment.

Having filled in the medical information/ lifestyle questionnaire, I was taken upstairs by Sabine, my masseuse for the afternoon. She explained that I would first have a massage, including bump if I wanted and that this would be followed by a facial. I was then left to get changed.

The treatment took place nestled on a bean bag and cushions - this meant that it was easy to move into bump-friendly positions so there's no lying on back or front. It also takes place under a warm fluffy towel so there's no need to worry about revealing all! My pregnancy's been very straightforward so far without even a hint of back ache -but the masseuse did manage to work on areas of tension across my back that I didn't even know were there. It was all much more gentle than previous massages I've had - no strenuous pummelling or pulling - although those were while on skiing holiday.

Next was the facial - a real treat for someone who barely even uses moisturiser. This involved various lotions and potions including exfoliation and a face mask - all tailored to take account of your own skin's needs. When I got home, my husband said that my face was positively glowing!

After being left to drift back to reality, Sabine came back having written out her "prescription" - a list of recommended products to use - in going through this she managed somehow to make me feel guilty for using anything less than the best quality products on my skin! To be honest, the treatment and the product cost combined might seem a little pricey - especially when there's a new baby to buy for. But I did treat myself to a bottle of their Japanese Camelia oil - it's doing wonders for the bump and a little goes a long way!

Treatments: Absolute Mother-To-Be Ritual A nurturing Massage for Mother-To-Be, followed by a Facial, perfectly prescribed to take you on a journey of total comfort and relaxation.

Cost: £170

Verdict: Fabulous, felt very relaxed and pampered, but rather pricey. If you felt the treatment and the products are too expensive for you, then I would say treat yourself to a bottle of their Japanese Camelia oil - it's doing wonders for the bump and a little goes a long way!

The spa test: 4/5

Find out more: Elemis day spa, 2-3 Lancashire Court, Mayfair, London W1S 1EX.

Telephone: 0870 410 4210

Website: www.elemis.com