PRENATAL MASSAGE BENEFITS, CONSIDERATIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS

 

Prenatal Massage Therapy Benefits - There are several observed or identified potential benefits to massage therapy during pregnancy, including:

• Relieves muscular tension, especially in the lower back, upper back, shoulders and neck
• Reduces stress on weight-bearing joints
• Enhances body awareness for better posture and less discomfort
• Assists with body mechanics and movement during structural change
• Supports birth process by relaxing muscles involved in labor and birth
• Eases anxiety and stress during time of transition
• Provides emotional support and nurturance

First Trimester Considerations -80% of miscarriages occur in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. While this number is high, it is extremely unlikely a massage would be the cause. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists does not list massage therapy among the causes for early pregnancy loss.

If there are higher medical risk considerations, discussing with your medical provider may be helpful to determine if massage is appropriate.

Prenatal Massage Therapy Contraindications - Performing massage therapy during pregnancy is contraindicated for women experiencing any of the following symptoms/signs:

• Bloody discharge
• Continual abdominal pains
• Sudden gush or leakage of amniotic fluid
• Sudden, rapid weight gain
• Increased blood pressure
• Protein or sugar in urine
• Severe back pain that does not subside with change in position
• Visual disturbances
• Severe nausea and/or vomiting (cannot keep anything down)
• Severe headaches
• Excessive hunger and thirst
• Increased urination in the second trimester
• Excessive swelling in arms or legs
• Decrease in fetal movement over a 24-hour period

 

Additional conditions - phlebitis, thrombosis, or suspected clotting conditions, any kidney, liver or spleen compromise or infection. Local massage on areas with severe varicose veins and swelling are avoided due to clotting risk.

• I have not experienced any of the above listed conditions.
• I am experiencing a Low-Risk Pregnancy. 
• I am receiving medical care including regular check-ups throughout my pregnancy.

I give permission and understand that I will be receiving massage therapy as an adjunctive form of healthcare only, and that this therapy is not meant to replace appropriate medical care. I understand that it is my responsibility to inform my massage therapist of any discomfort I may feel during the massage session so he/she may adjust accordingly. I understand that I or the massage therapist may terminate the session at any time.

I release the massage therapist/practitioner of all liability for any harm to me or my fetus(es), including miscarriage, preterm labor, or any other complications that may unintentionally occur during or after my treatment(s).