FAQ - Pregnancy Massage
Will the massage be painful?
There should be no pain associated with pregnancy massage. If you do feel any pain or discomfort at any time you should immediately make me aware.
Is Pregnancy Massage safe throughout the entire pregnancy?
This massage is considered to be safe during all three trimesters of pregnancy right up to birth.
In 2015 the Australian Association of Massage Therapists (AAMT) announced after completing their own research that pregnancy massage during the first trimester is considered safe “if undertaken by a trained pregnancy massage specialist.”
You can also read this article:
https://pregnancymassageaustralia.com.au/break-understanding-first-trimester-massage/
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What Position Will I Be In?
I don’t use massage tables with holes for your belly as it has been shown that this puts so much more pressure on the sacrum and can strain the ligaments around the uterus and pelvis and increase back pain, not to mention your growing breasts, which may be tender or uncomfortable.
What also happens is that the weight of your baby, placenta and uterus creates a lot of pressure through the rectus abdominis, so there is increased risk for abdominal separation (Diastasis Recti), constipation and urine leaking.
Lying flat on your back can cause pressure from your uterus and baby to press on the major vein in your back, causing low blood pressure and decrease circulation to you and your baby.
Therefore, the massage is given in the side-lying position with pillows for support as this is the ideal position for Pregnancy Massage. This position allows your spine and muscles to release tension so that you can fully relax knowing you can be treated without risk to your body. It also provides the most stability for the baby and is comfortable for you.
How long will my massage take?
I offer Pregnancy Massage lasting 60 or 90 minutes. It is up to you.
Your appointment itself will last a little longer than this to allow for consultation, setup and pack away.
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What is the cancellation policy?
Please be advised that I have a 24 hour cancellation policy. Please email if you need to cancel your appointment at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment. A fee of 50% of the appointment cost will incur if there is less than 24 hours notice.
What’s the difference between general and pregnancy massage?
Pregnancy massage is modified to accommodate and support your changing body, to ensure you the benefits of massage safely.
As a certified pregnancy massage therapist, I received training beyond the national standards for massage therapists. Therefore, I understand the physiology of an expectant mother and how to address specific needs in pregnancy.
Is there any circumstance when massage during pregnancy is not advisable?
The vast majority of pregnancies are absolutely suitable for this type of massage. But if you have certain health conditions or complications, you should check with your midwife or GP before just to make sure that they are happy for you to go ahead.
This might include:
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High-risk pregnancy conditions such as preeclampsia or placenta previa;
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High blood pressure;
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Any abdominal pain;
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Bleeding;
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Blood clots;
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Previous pre-term labour;
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Experiencing severe swelling or sudden and severe headaches