Prenatal massage, sometimes called pregnancy massage, is massage therapy for the pregnant woman. It has been shown to produce numerous health benefits including: relieving musculoskeletal aches and pains, decreasing muscle tension, relieving leg cramps, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving sleep quality, and improving labor outcomes. Prenatal massage typically involves the use of several massage styles such as Swedish and deep tissue massage. Prenatal massage focuses on adapting massage techniques and client positioning strategies to accommodate the needs of mothers-to-be.

In addition to the standard contraindications for massage, prenatal massage has additional contraindications and precautions. The following is a partial list of common conditions which are considered contraindications for prenatal massage therapy:

– Blood clots
– Bleeding disorders
– High blood pressure
– Diabetes
– Preeclampsia
– High-risk pregnancy
– Abdominal pain
– Pitting edema
– Heart disease
– Unexplained symptoms
– Previous pre-term labor or miscarriage

I further understand that massage is not a substitute for a medical examination or treatment, and that I should see a physician or other qualified health
specialist for any mental or physical ailment of which I am aware. I understand that massage therapists do not diagnose illness or disease, and nothing said during the treatment should be construed as such. My consent is informed and voluntary and I understand that I may withdraw my consent at any time except for actions already taken.