Your Massage
Your first massage session may include up to thirty minutes of consultation and demonstration. Your health intake form (right) will be reviewed and we’ll discuss how massage therapy can support your vision for your pregnancy and your child’s birth. Your therapist will also determine with you the proper modality to use, intensity of pressure, and positioning on the table for maximum safety and comfort.
During your massage, you will be supported with pillows and be either clothed or draped with a sheet, except for the area being worked. Most massages after the first trimester are received in the side-lying position, with all areas of the body easily accessed. Many women are surprised at how comfortable they can be lying on their side when properly aligned and supported. Your massage therapist can give you tips for more comfortable sleep positions at home.
Communication
Communication is key for ideal positioning, comfort and safety during your sessions. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about massage in general, express concerns, or indicate your preferences and specific areas that you would like to have worked. Once these matters have been discussed, you may take the opportunity to relax, quiet your mind, and connect with your baby. Your therapist will respect your wish for silence.
Your Safety
At Utah Prenatal Massage your safety and the health of your growing baby are our first priority. To provide the most appropriate treatment and address your individual needs, we make it a policy to inform your primary healthcare provider that you will be receiving massage during your pregnancy. We screen our members to ensure that each therapist is certified in pre-and perinatal massage therapy and has professional licensure and insurance.
We do not recommend any form of face-down massage past the first trimester, which may increase intrauterine pressure and potentially harm the baby. Other safety concerns regarding types of pressure, body areas massaged and specific modifications will be observed by each therapist so that you can feel confident you are receiving the highest quality care.
