Search Results

Original Post August 26, 2024: On January 1, 2022, the Federal Register announced a significant milestone for military families: TRICARE, the health insurance program for service members and their dependents, would begin reimbursing for continuous labor support and six pre/postpartum visits from an approved doula as part of their new pilot program. While this initiative is groundbreaking, the application process has been anything but straightforward. As a military (now Veteran) spouse, I’m deeply committed to removing financial barriers for service members and their families. However, like many of you, I needed to ensure that I could sustain my work. Becoming an in-network provider wasn’t an option for me, but I wasn’t ready to give up. I spent countless hours on the phone and emailing with TRICARE East and doulas across the country, diving into the complexities of participating versus nonparticipating providers, in-network versus out-of-network options, and the ins and outs of balanced billing. After years of effort, including cross-certifying with an approved organization and submitting all the necessary documentation, I finally received confirmation from TRICARE East — I am now officially a TRICARE non-network, non-participating Certified Labor Doula (CLD)! This means that active-duty members and their families can now submit invoices to TRICARE for reimbursement of my services. It’s a huge step forward in making doula support more accessible to military families. There’s still much to learn about doula support and TRICARE, and it will be a slow process that we’ll navigate together. If you’re stationed at Robins AFB, I’d be honored to support you during your labor and delivery. In the meantime, feel free to share this post and let me know your thoughts on TRICARE’s new policies. I’m eager to hear your concerns, questions, and excitement! PS: Learn more about Tricare Doula Services HERE ! Update: September 6, 2024 I have an important update regarding my doula services. I am pleased to announce that, as of today, I am now a participating  non-network doula. This means I can work with clients through their insurance plans by filing claims directly with Tricare, providing greater flexibility and convenience. Additionally, I have revised my payment policy. Moving forward, payment upfront will no longer be required. Instead, payments will be processed directly through Tricare according to the new terms. Thank you for your continued support and understanding. If you have any questions about these changes or how they may affect your services, please feel free to reach out.

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with changes and challenges, both physical and emotional. As your body undergoes these transformations, it's important to prioritize your comfort and well-being. One way to do this is through daily stretches, which can help alleviate common pregnancy discomforts, improve flexibility, and promote relaxation. In this blog post, we'll explore a series of safe and effective stretches that you can incorporate into your daily routine to support a healthy and comfortable pregnancy. 1. Cat-Cow Stretch: - Begin on your hands and knees, with your wrists aligned under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. - Inhale as you arch your back, lowering your belly towards the floor and lifting your head and tailbone towards the ceiling (cow pose). - Exhale as you round your spine, tucking your chin towards your chest and drawing your belly button towards your spine (cat pose). - Repeat this movement, flowing smoothly between cat and cow poses, for 5-10 breaths. 2. Hip Flexor Stretch: - Kneel on your right knee, with your left foot flat on the floor in front of you, creating a 90-degree angle with your left knee. - Place your hands on your left thigh for support and gently lean forward, stretching the front of your right hip. - Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides and repeat. 3. Side Stretch: - Sit comfortably with your legs crossed or extended in front of you. - Raise your right arm overhead, bending to the left side, and gently stretching the right side of your torso. - Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides and repeat. 4. Adductor Stretch: - Sit on a stability ball with a neutral pelvis. - Roll slightly forward on the ball as you extend the right leg straight out to the side. - Reach the right leg away as you roll slightly to the right on the ball and hold for 10 to 30 seconds (think open and long). - Reverse the motion to return to center. - Switch sides and repeat. That's one rep. - Continue alternating sides for 3 to 5 reps. 5. Chest Opener: - Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart (or kneel with knees hip-width apart) and your arms at your sides. - Clasp your hands behind your back, squeezing your shoulder blades together and opening your chest. - Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, then release. Incorporating these daily stretches into your routine can help you maintain comfort and flexibility throughout your pregnancy. However, it's important to listen to your body and avoid overstretching or pushing yourself too hard. If you have any concerns or experience pain while stretching, consult with your healthcare provider. Embrace the changes in your body and enjoy this special time in your life with these gentle and beneficial stretches. #PregnancyStretching #PrenatalFitness #HealthyPregnancy #PregnancyWellness #StretchingRoutine #PregnancyComfort #PrenatalHealth #RelaxationDuringPregnancy #FlexibilityForPregnancy #PregnancyJourney #Doula #BonaireGA #MiddleGA #FreeSpiritMassage&DoulaServices

Dear Loyal and Valued Clients, I know. I know. I hate to have to write another price adjustment notice like this, but I know that due to our current climate I'm certainly not the only small business owner who is feeling the effect and have to do this in order to keep going. As of 1 January 2024, there will be an adjustment in the way pricing is done. Good news is.... I am only doing away with the discounted rates on top of the discounted package prices! This means all single sessions will no longer be discounted simply by booking a longer session and will be at 100% full price regardless of the length of the session. However, you CAN still get your discount by purchasing a package on the massage deals page. Also, I come with more good news! The new prices will also reflect an all inclusive price. This means you can request hot towels, cupping, stretching, or essential oils during any of your sessions. No upcharge! ALSO, I will be moving to a "no tipping" practice. I have slowly been moving to this over the last year, but starting in January it will be standard practice for everyone. The best tip you can give me is a Google review and even better if you also leave a Facebook review! Doula packages will also have a slight adjustment in pricing to reflect the new prices as of 1 January 2023. I hope you all understand and as always, I thoroughly appreciate your continued loyalty & support!

10% off package massage deals. All packages come with three (3) massage sessions! 10% Savings on These Deals! Package Deals and Gift Card/Certificate Policy All prepaid packages are non-refundable and must be used within 3 months of purchase. You may also choose to donate one (or more) of your sessions as a Gift Certificate or to the Pay It Forward program. Any requests for refunds or extensions are issued at the sole discretion of Free Spirit Massage & Doula Services, LLC. All packages come with three (3) massage sessions! BOOKING Pre-Paid Sessions: You can book these sessions using the booking calendar HERE at the bottom of the booking page. Choose the type and length of massage you purchased a package for. 3-Pack Package Deals Prenatal, Postpartum & Custom Massage Packages Book Here

Find FAQs to all the most asked questions about Free Spirit Massage & Doula Services, LLC here. FAQs If you're thinking about booking a massage session, adding me to your birthing or postpartum care team, or seeking support for your fertility or nursing journey, you probably have several questions. In this section, I provide detailed answers to help address your concerns, offering the knowledge and confidence you need to make me a part of your self-care team. FAQ - General FAQ - Massage FAQ -Doula General FAQs Where are you located? 205-A Old Perry Road Bonaire, GA 31005 In the cozy little building next to ADA Supplies and across from Bonaire First Baptist Church, at the corner of Old Hwy 96 and Old Perry Road. How early should I arrive for my massage? For new clients , please arrive 10-15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork. Don’t worry, it’s all digital and paperless, so you can easily fill it out on a tablet in the office. Intake forms are updated annually or when there are changes to your health history. Late arrivals: If you're running late, no worries! But do note that the session will start without you to ensure we wrap up on time. Arriving early helps you make the most of your session and ensures the next client is taken care of too. Thanks for understanding! Existing clients aim to arrive 5-10 minutes early to relax and settle in before your session begins. What should I wear for my massage? Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable! Once you’re in the massage room, I’ll introduce you to the massage table and give you instructions on how to get on it. I’ll step out for a moment to give you space to undress, but feel free to leave your underwear on if that’s your preference. I’ll make sure you’re always covered with a sheet, skillfully uncovering just the area I’m working on and re-covering you securely when I’m done. Your comfort and modesty are a top priority, and I’ll check in with you during the session to make sure you’re neither too hot nor too cold I'm sick. Should I keep my appointment? If you're feeling unwell, please contact me immediately to cancel your appointment, especially if you’re dealing with body aches or suspect a fever. Rescheduling when you’re feeling better will ensure a safer and more effective treatment. Remember, there’s a 24-hour cancellation policy , so don’t wait—let me know as soon as you start feeling unwell! If you arrive at your appointment showing any signs of illness, I’ll have to send you home for both your safety and mine. Charges will still apply, so please call me right away if you notice any symptoms before your appointment to avoid that. Do you accept insurance? I’m happy to provide a payment receipt that you can submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement. Keep in mind, most insurance companies require a prescription from your doctor or chiropractor for massage therapy reimbursement. You can also use an HSA or Flex-spending debit card with a major credit card logo to pay for your sessions. Additionally, I’m now a Tricare-approved provider for birth doula services! Learn more HERE . What if I really need a massage, but really cannot afford one? I f you’re in need of a massage but finances are tight, there are ways to still receive care! You can take advantage of my Pay It Forward Program, which allows you to receive support in a variety of ways. More details are available here. Plus, feel free to share your experience with others—word-of-mouth is always appreciated, and you’ll be helping others discover the benefits of massage therapy too! What if I am running late for my appointment? I kindly ask that all clients arrive 5-10 minutes early (15 minutes for first-time clients) to ensure we can start on time. I aim to keep things running smoothly and on schedule. If you're running late, I’ll get you on the table as quickly as possible, but your session will still end at the scheduled time. If you know you’ll be late, please let me know, and I’ll do my best to accommodate, though flexibility may be limited depending on my schedule. If lateness results in a cancellation, please refer to the no-show policy . And if you’re early and there’s a slight delay, don’t worry—you’ll still get the full length of your session! What is required to reserve my appointment? To reserve your appointment, I’ll need your full name, email address, mobile number, and a credit or debit card on file to guarantee your spot. I also ask that you let me know how many weeks pregnant or postpartum you are, along with whether your pregnancy is low-risk or high-risk (if high-risk, please specify the reason). Do you take walk-ins? I do not accept walk-ins, but I may have occasional availability for same-day or last-minute appointments. Be sure to call or text me in advance or use the online booking system to secure your spot. An appointment is always required. What is your cancellation/rescheduling policy? Your appointment time is reserved specifically for you, so if you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 24 hours' notice. Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis. By booking, you agree to the terms of the cancellation policy. Find my cancellation policy HERE . Massage FAQs What is prenatal massage? Prenatal massage is a specialized form of therapy designed to address the unique needs of pregnant individuals. It aims to relax tense muscles, reduce soreness, improve circulation, and provide a general sense of well-being. Therapists trained in prenatal massage adjust their techniques to ensure comfort and safety for each stage of pregnancy. What's the difference between getting prenatal massage at Free Spirit Massage & Doula Services vs. any other spa or place in Middle Georgia that offers pregnancy massage? Oh, there’s a big difference! At Free Spirit Massage & Doula Services, you’ll get the VIP treatment when it comes to prenatal massage. No need to lie on your side (unless you really want to)—thanks to my advanced cushioning systems, you can relax in any position that suits your body’s needs. I’ll tailor the pressure to your exact liking, because no, you’re not fragile just because you’re pregnant! With years of specialized training and hands-on experience, I know pregnancy inside and out—literally. I’m all about busting those pesky myths, like the idea that foot massage will send you into labor (spoiler: it won’t). My passion for prenatal massage means I’m always learning and improving, so you can rest easy knowing you’re in expert hands. Is it ever too early or too late in pregnancy to get a massage? Absolutely not! Prenatal massage can be beneficial at any stage of pregnancy. From early on (yes, even in the first trimester) to labor, it’s never too late to schedule a massage. I offer a flexible cancellation policy for laboring clients and even provide massage support during labor if desired. Aren't there certain things you can't do on pregnant people during a massage? Not really! There are a lot of myths floating around about prenatal massage, like the idea that massage can stir up toxins, foot massages can bring on labor, or that there are strict rules about pressure and where it’s safe to touch. These are just that—myths! While I may adjust certain techniques or positions to make you more comfortable as your body changes, there’s no universal “don’t do this” list. If you have any concerns or questions about what’s safe during your massage, just reach out—I’m happy to give you all the info you need! Is pregnancy massage dangerous? Nope, pregnancy massage is not dangerous during a healthy pregnancy! In fact, it’s quite beneficial for supporting a smooth and healthy pregnancy. It won’t cause miscarriage or kickstart preterm labor. That said, the quality of your massage really depends on the therapist’s training and experience in prenatal massage. Think of it like this: just because a dental assistant knows teeth doesn’t mean they’re the one you want doing a root canal! Specialization matters, and I'm here to make sure you get the best care for you and your baby How often should I get pregnancy massage? I recommend scheduling prenatal massages according to your prenatal care visits: every 4 weeks until 27 weeks, every other week until 36 weeks, and weekly from 36 weeks until childbirth. Many clients choose regular massage throughout their pregnancy and the first few months postpartum. During pregnancy: I recommend following your OB appointment schedule for your prenatal massages. (Every OB/midwife appointment = 1 massage appointment) Postpartum massage - What is it? Postpartum massage is an important part of recovery after childbirth. It helps restore balance to the body, regulate hormones, reduce swelling, and improve sleep and breast/chest-feeding experiences. It also supports healing after C-section births. Postpartum massage - how soon, and how often? The sooner, the better! Ideally, get your first postpartum massage within 5-10 days after birth. Regular sessions every 2 weeks for the first 16 weeks can work wonders for speeding up recovery and easing the transition into parenthood. I totally understand that leaving your baby behind can be stressful, so don’t hesitate to bring them along! Your little one can chill next to you on a Dock-A-Tot right beside the table, or if you prefer, I can even babywear (I’m a pro at multitasking!). Let’s make this a relaxing, supportive experience for both you and your baby. How does prenatal/postpartum massage help? Prenatal and postpartum massage provides relief from pain in areas such as the back, neck, shoulders, and legs, reduces swelling, improves circulation, and alleviates stress and anxiety. These massages also improve sleep and boost mood, leaving you feeling uplifted and more relaxed. Do I have to lie on my side the whole time? Not at all! While side-lying is one option, I use an orthopedic support system that allows you to lie face down (if preferred) or find a comfortable position that works for you throughout the massage. Your relaxation and ease are my top priorities. Do you have those special pregnancy tables with holes cut out for the belly? I don’t use those special tables. Instead, I utilize advanced orthopedic cushions that adjust to support your growing body, whether you’re lying face down or on your side. Do I get to lie face-down during a pregnancy massage? Absolutely! I get it – lying face-down feels so much more relaxing, and I've got the perfect solution. I use special orthopedic support cushions that adjust to fit your growing belly and breasts, making it super comfy throughout all stages of pregnancy. Many pregnant individuals love these cushions so much they wish they could take them home! However, if you're carrying twins or have a larger belly early on, you might prefer lying on your side after a certain point. Also, if you're petite (5'2" and under), face-down might not be as comfy for you, but we'll give it a try and see what works best for your body! Can I lie flat on my back during pregnancy massage? Only during the first trimester. After that, I’ll treat you like royalty with a comfy reclining position that supports your head, neck, and back just right. Your knees and feet will be slightly elevated, giving you a cozy position that many find surprisingly comfortable. Some clients even say this reclined position is so relaxing, it’s the perfect sleeping posture for the rest of their pregnancy! What length of appointment should I book? For a comprehensive full-body massage, 60 minutes is the minimum, but 90 minutes is ideal for a more thorough experience. For first-timers, I recommend starting with 60 minutes, though 120-minute sessions can be great for those who want a truly extended session. What is fertility massage? Fertility massage is a specialized technique that combines massage therapy, cleansing techniques, and visualization to support fertility. It may include abdominal massage with castor oil packs to improve circulation and optimize fertility conditions. You can read more about fertility massage here . How often should someone get fertility massage? Fertility massage typically starts with a 3-session series, followed by monthly sessions while actively trying to conceive. You'll also learn self-treatment techniques to continue at home. Do you only work with pregnant individuals? While prenatal massage is my specialty, I also offer massage for all individuals, including children and non-pregnant adults. Do you only work on biological moms? (or heterosexual moms, etc.) No! I welcome all individuals and families, regardless of sexual orientation, relationship status, or parenting type. Whether you're a single parent, in an LGBTQ+ relationship, an adoptive or surrogate parent, or any other kind of parent-to-be, I’m here to support you on your journey to parenthood. What is your cancellation/rescheduling policy? Find my cancellation policy HERE . I understand that dealing with pregnancy and the associated challenges may lead to forgetfulness. To assist you, I provide multiple reminders to help you remember and adhere to the specified time window. Please take a moment to review your calendar and set up reminders to ensure smooth communication. What if I go into labor and have to cancel my appointment? No worries! My cancellation policy is more lenient for clients going into labor, so just let me know, and we’ll make arrangements accordingly. Do I need a note from my doctor or midwife for a prenatal massage? Not unless you have specific high-risk conditions. Feel free to reach out if you have concerns about your health, and I’ll work with your doctor or midwife to ensure a safe massage. What difference in qualifications or training do you have over a non-specialized massage therapist? While all Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) learn the basics of pregnancy massage, I have advanced training in prenatal, postpartum, and fertility massage. My specialized education and continuous pursuit of expertise in this field ensure that you receive the highest quality care during this transformative time in your life. Doula FAQs Does a birth doula replace a father/partner? Absolutely not! A birth doula doesn’t replace anyone — we’re here to be an extra set of hands (and hearts) on your birth team. Doulas work alongside your partner, helping them with comfort techniques, providing helpful info, and making sure they’re feeling good too. It’s all about collaboration to create the best birth experience for everyone involved! Is a birth doula the same thing as a Midwife or nurse? Nope! A birth doula is definitely not the same as a midwife or nurse. Midwives and nurses are there to take care of the medical stuff (they’re the pros in that department). Meanwhile, a doula is there to focus purely on emotional and physical support, offering continuous comfort, encouragement, and unbiased information throughout the whole process. Think of us as your emotional support superhero! Can a doula help even if I get an epidural? Oh, absolutely! While the epidural is handling the pain, a doula is still there to provide emotional support, guidance, and comfort techniques for you and your family. From early labor to the final moments of delivery, we’ve got you covered. Can doula's attend c-section births? Of course! A doula can still be there for support during a C-section. While we may not always be allowed in the operating room (it depends on the hospital and your preferences), rest assured, we’ll be there for you during recovery, helping you through the transition to bonding with your baby. What are the benefits of a doula? Labor doulas come with some serious perks! Doulas are statistically proven to improve outcomes: 31% decrease in the use of Pitocin* 28% decrease in the risk of C-section* 12% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth* 9% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief 14% decrease in the risk of newborns being admitted to a special care nursery 34% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience* Yep, we make a huge difference! What is a postpartum doula? A postpartum doula is like a personal cheerleader for your fourth trimester (and beyond). Our role is to nurture the parent, providing support in those first weeks after baby arrives. We’re there for the emotional, physical, and informational aspects of the transition to parenthood, focusing primarily on you and your family — because parenting takes a village! How long do families typically use in-home postpartum doula care? The length of postpartum doula care varies — it can range from just a few days to several months. Most families opt for 2 to 12 weeks, while others may choose full time care for u to 12 months. However, if you’ve got multiples, you might need extra support. We tailor the care to fit your needs and evolving family situation. How will I become self-sufficient as a parent if I am dependent on the help of a postpartum doula? The first six weeks of parenthood are a whirlwind, and it’s okay to ask for help. Our job is to empower you — we’ll support you through the toughest bits, making sure you have the confidence to take the reins when you’re ready. You’re not dependent on us forever, just until you’re feeling like a parenting pro! My mother, sister, aunt (insert family member) will be around, can't they be my doula? Having family support is awesome, but a doula brings something unique to the table. Family members are often wonderful, but they can sometimes have conflicting advice or emotional biases. A doula, on the other hand, offers unbiased, evidence-based support — making sure you get the information and comfort you need without any extra drama. We’re like the perfect professional addition to your support squad!

If you’re thinking about booking a massage session, adding me to your birthing or postpartum care team, or looking for support with your fertility or nursing journey, you probably have a lot of questions. Here, I answer your questions in detail and help you gain the knowledge and confidence you... Are you interested in learning more about Free Spirit Massage & Doula Services and the birthing process? Keep reading for more details and to check out my frequently asked questions to see if there is an answer to your question. If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for, feel free to give me a call/text and I’ll be happy to answer any question you may have. FAQ: Prenatal General FAQs Where are you located? 205-A Old Perry Road Bonaire, GA 31005 In the small building right beside ADA Supplies and across the street from Bonaire First Baptist Church at the corner of Old Hwy 96 and Old Perry Road. How early should I arrive for my massage? New clients should always plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to and fill out any paperwork needed. I am going all digital/paperless, so these will be done in office on a tablet. (Intake forms are completed once a year or as health history changes.) Your late arrival will require the session to start without you and still end ON TIME. Other clients who are booked after you would like to keep their sessions on time. Please help me give you the full session you are paying for by arriving early. What should I wear for my massage? Come as you are. Once you get in the massage room, I will introduce you to the massage table and explain how to get on it. I will ask you to get completely undressed after I step out for a moment, as I prefer not to have to work around anything. You are welcome to leave undies on if you have a good reason to. It is standard massage practice to leave you covered at all times with a sheet with one area at a time skillfully uncovered to be worked on, and re-covered securely when that area is finished. You will be comfortable and modest, and I will check in with you to make sure you are not too cold or too hot. I'm sick. Should I keep my appointment? If you get sick, please contact me immediately to cancel your appointment - especially if you are experiencing body aches or you suspect a fever. Your treatment will be safer and more enjoyable once you feel better. Please note there is a 24-hour cancellation policy in effect, so call AS SOON as you feel you're ill. Do not wait! Due to recent events with COVID, if you arrive at your appointment showing signs of ANY illness, you will be sent home and charged for the appointment. Please call the moment you show signs of illness to avoid any charges. Do you accept insurance? I am happy to give you a receipt for your payment so you can submit to your insurance for reimbursement. (It usually requires a prescription for massage therapy from your doctor or chiropractor.) You can also use a HSA or Flex-spending debit card with a major credit card logo to pay for your sessions. What if I really need a massage, but really can not afford one? For each client you refer to me that books an appointment, you get $5 off! You can use the $5 off each time or save up for a free session! (And usually every pregnant individual knows at least three more pregnant people. Spread the word!) I also have a Pay It Forward Program. You can read about it here . What if I am running late for my appointment? I ask all clients to ALWAYS plan on arriving 5-10 mins (15 minutes for first time clients) early for any massage session. Unlike the average doctor's office, I actually run on time! If you are late, I will get you on the massage table quickly, and you will get whatever time remains of the session you are paying for. Just communicate with me if you are going to be late, and I'll see what I can do, but please understand that I don't usually have wiggle room in my schedule. If you are so late that you have to cancel, see policy for no-shows. (If you are early, and I end up taking you back a few minutes late, you'll still get the full time you booked and it's up to me to make up time in my schedule.) What is required to reserve my appointment? Your full name, email address, mobile number, a credit or debit card on file to guarantee your appointment, as well as how many weeks pregnant or postpartum you are, and whether your pregnancy is low- or high-risk (and if high risk, for what reason). Do you take walk-ins? No. But rarely I will have same-day/last-minute appointments. Please call/text first, or book online. Appointment is required. Prenatal & Postpartum Massage FAQ's What is prenatal massage? Massage therapy for pregnant people. Prenatal massage aims to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and mobility, and just make you feel good. But prenatal massage is also customized to the needs of pregnant individuals and their changing bodies, and therapists trained in prenatal massage adjust their techniques accordingly. What's the difference between getting prenatal massage at Free Spirit Massage & Doula Services vs. any other spa or place in Middle Georgia that offers pregnancy massage? A LOT. Let's put it this way: A Dentist is a Doctor too... but not the kind of doctor you should choose to deliver your baby. A few highlights: I don't require you to lie on your side for the massage because I have advanced cushioning systems to ensure your safety and comfort at all stages of pregnancy, I will work with as deep of pressure as you want (I don't treat you like you are fragile), I’m not hesitant/afraid to work on you, I am a SPECIALIST in prenatal massage and have worked on countless numbers of pregnant people (most spa therapists have only worked on a handful), I am highly knowledgeable about pregnancy and birth and I don't perpetuate myths and misconceptions such as "I can induce your labor with foot massage" (which is hopeful... but false.) I have taken many prenatal massage classes over the entirety of my massage career and became certified. I went to school for massage planning on specializing in prenatal massage. It is my passion. Is it ever too early or too late in pregnancy to get a massage? Nope! The only difference is my cancellation policy for clients in labor is a bit more lenient (see below). Expecting parents can begin massage therapy at any point in their pregnancy – during the first, second, or third trimester. Many facilities will refuse to offer massage to a anyone who is still in their first trimester because of the increased risk for miscarriage associated with the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Massage therapy does not cause miscarriage. Aren't there certain things you can't do on pregnant people during a massage? Rarely. But you may have heard a few myths: massage will stir up toxins and is dangerous, foot massage will put you in labor, you can only use light pressure massage, no deep work on your lower back, no massage in the first trimester, no face-down massage EVER, therapist can naturally induce labor or do things that will put you in labor..... these are all false. The main difference is that I don't do super deep sports-massage type techniques on your legs (but most clients don't want that), and I have to position you differently on the massage table as your belly grows. If you have any concerns about the safety and practice of pregnancy massage, please contact me for clarification. Is pregnancy massage dangerous? No. Massage during a normal pregnancy is not harmful at all. Massage supports a healthy pregnancy, and does not cause miscarriage or induce preterm labor. That being said...not all massage therapists or spas who offer prenatal massage have extensive training or experience doing it, and if you are the recipient of one of those massages, you might be left unsettled and disappointed. Specialization makes a BIG difference; a dental assistant knows a LOT about teeth, but s/he shouldn't be the one performing a root canal. How often should I get pregnancy massage? Same as your prenatal care visits! Once every 4 weeks up to week 27; every other week up to week 36; weekly from week 36 on until you give birth. MANY of my clients come every other week or every week for the whole pregnancy, and for four months postpartum. Postpartum massage - how soon, and how often? Come back in within the first 10 days (preferably 5 days) of giving birth. I can even come TO you so you can keep baby with you (Mobile massage does have an extra travel fee). But you can also bring baby to my office with you (Giant maxi pads and leaky boobs welcome.) Then, every other week at least for the first 16 weeks postpartum. (I promise it will CHANGE YOUR LIFE. Why? Because parents rarely prioritize self-care. Schedule being a parent around your massage appointments and you will be a better, happier parent.) How does prenatal massage help? It will help you feel good, hurt less, and sleep better. It helps relieve pain in the back, neck, shoulders, hips, arms and hands, legs and feet. Overall, you'll be happier... and who doesn't want THAT? Do I have to lie on my side the whole time? Only if you prefer to. I know how to do that very well. Do you have those special pregnancy tables with holes cut out for the belly? oh, noooooo. (Do they still sell those??? ) While they are a novel idea, tables with removable "plugs" for breasts and belly do not adjust or support the body adequately. One size does NOT fit all when it comes to gestational bodies. I DO have an advanced orthopedic cushioning system that goes on top of a standard massage table and adjusts to your growing body, that enables you to lie face down (or on your side if you prefer) comfortably and safely. Do I get to lie face-down during a pregnancy massage? Absolutely... every pregnant persons dream come true! I am masterful in the use of special orthopedic body support cushions that are fully adjustable to accommodate your growing belly and breasts during all stages of pregnancy. Most pregnant people find them so comfortable that they beg me to let them take the cushions home! If you are carrying twins, or have a larger belly at the start of your pregnancy, it may be more prudent and comfortable to lie you on your side after a certain point. Also, people that are petite (5'2" and under) may not fit well face-down on the cushions. But I will let you try them and decide for yourself! Can I lie flat on my back during pregnancy massage? Only during the first trimester. After that, I prop you up like Royalty, reclining on your throne, with your head/neck/back supported, your knees and feet slightly elevated too. Magically, you'll also discover that this a great position to sleep in for the rest of your pregnancy. What length of appointment should I book? For "full-body massage" (where I say hello to every major muscle group), we need at least 60 minutes, especially if it is your first massage session. 90 minutes is even better, and 120 minutes is freakin' fantastic (but not recommended for massage first-timers). Do you only work with pregnant individuals? Although prenatal massage is my passion and specialty, I also work on all ages of non-pregnant individuals and children. Do you only work on biological moms? (or heterosexual moms, etc.) No, I serve all parents-to-be...as well as their husbands, wives and partners. I work with independent/single moms, birth moms, intended adoptive parents, surrogate moms, teen moms, young moms, old moms, and parents who have lost their babies too soon. Even boyfriends, fiancés, aunts, uncles, grandparents and kids. Everyone is welcome here. What is your cancellation/rescheduling policy? Your appointment time has been reserved for you and nobody else. It is common courtesy, and in your agreement when you book your session and sign your intake form, to give no less than 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Though I may make exceptions on a case-by-case basis, by booking a session with me, you agree to my policies listed below. Find my cancellation policy HERE . I know we are dealing with pregnancy- and pregnancy-brain; therefore I give you a lot of reminders to support you in honoring this window of time. Please double check your calendar and set adequate reminders! What if I go into labor and have to cancel my appointment? I am much more lenient in my cancellation policies for individuals who go into labor; just ask when booking your appointment late in pregnancy! Do I need a note from my doctor or midwife? Not unless you have certain high-risk conditions that could be complicated by promotion of blood flow throughout your body via massage. If you have any concerns in general about pregnancy massage, feel free to ask your prenatal care provider. I am totally confident working with you and will let you know after reviewing your intake form if there are any further concerns. What difference in qualifications or training do you have over a non-specialized massage therapist? I'll try to keep this relatively brief: All LMTs have a short crash course during massage school on how to do a (pretty lousy) pregnancy massage with the pregnant person propped on their side with a few pillows. (IF they even get that much!) Many myths are perpetuated out of fear of doing harm (ie, no 1st trimester massage, no foot/ankle massage, massage can induce labor, massage has to be light touch only, etc.) Some take an elective course in Prenatal Massage that is far more in dept. In addition to common sense pregnancy massage practice, they learn what pregnant people want, need, and expect. Not only do they learn EVERYTHING they should know about pregnancy and birth, they also get over the pregnancy fears and myths they learned in massage school. They learn that while pregnant people require special handling, pregnancy is NOT a disease, and pregnant people are NOT fragile. They learn what to do and what not to do, when to worry and when not to worry, and also dive into the culture of birth in the USA and what pregnant people are really going through during pregnancy and the many choices they must face. They learn skills and mindsets required to be truly supportive, professional, caring, and helpful for all aspects of pregnancy. I have taken numerous Prenatal Massage courses over the years and became certified in pregnancy and postpartum massage as this type of bodywork is my passion. Book Now FAQ: General