Prenatal Massage Information & Release Form

Prenatal massage is a great way at reducing stress and increasing the health of the mother-to-be. It can ease the discomfort of the pregnancy experience and make it one that is filled with the delight and mystery that it is. It’s important to know the benefits and risks of prenatal massage.

Prenatal massage is given with the mother-to-be lying on her side, with bolsters, pillows and cushions supporting the legs and belly for comfort.

You must be past your first trimester. If your pregnancy is considered 'high risk', it is mandatory to provide La Vita Bella Day Spa with a note from your obstetrician dated within 30 days of your massage. 

The following are examples of a 'High Risk' pregnancy that would require a doctor's note to receive a massage at La Vita Bella Day Spa LLC

• Under the age of 15 or over the age of 40
• More than 3 pregnancies, (not children, but pregnancies)
• Carrying more than one baby
• Conditions such as high blood pressure, history of pre-eclampsia, cardiac issues, kidney disease, diabetes.

The following are examples of a 'High Risk' pregnancy that La Vita Bella Day Spa LLC will NOT provide services for, even with a Doctor’s Note.

• Pre-eclampsia or eclampsia
• UTI or Kidney Infections
• Complications with Diabetes
• Recent prenatal bleeding or spotting
• Any medications taken to manage or prevent blood clots, including baby aspirin.

In addition to the normal benefits of massage, prenatal massage has a number of benefits for mothers-to-be:

• Reduces stress levels.
• Eases back and foot pain caused by changes in posture.
• Reduces swelling of feet and ankles.
• Improves skin elasticity, reducing stretch marks.
• Improves sleep.
• Improves digestion.
• Relaxes and soothes baby.
• Reduces pelvic pain.

Risks of Prenatal Massage are relatively few and some of these risks that are talked about can be misconceptions. The real risks are:

• Dizziness and nausea.
• Untrained therapists causing injury.
• Too deep massage of back or abdomen causing spotting or cramping.
• Inducing labor.
• Creating, instead of relieving, muscle soreness.

Nausea and dizziness can occur after any massage, and are not uncommon during pregnancy. Avoid eating immediately before a massage, and get up carefully to avoid problems. Muscle soreness is generally the result of not getting enough fluid after a massage. Drink a lot of water in the first two hours after a massage to prevent this.

The biggest misconception is that massage in the first trimester can cause a miscarriage. Miscarriages in the first trimester are unfortunately too common, but there is no evidence that any miscarriage has ever been caused by massage or reflexology. A mother-to-be can get prenatal massage at any point during a healthy pregnancy. In a high risk pregnancy, or when there are medical complications it’s a good idea to talk to both your obstetrician and a prenatal massage therapist.

Release: I have read the above information concerning the risks and benefits of prenatal massage. I verify that I am experiencing a low risk pregnancy and I have stated all known medical conditions to my therapist. I understand that the massage therapist does not diagnose, prescribe medication or preform spinal manipulations. I hereby hold harmless and indemnify the therapist, her principles and agents from all claims and liability whatsoever.