Prenatal, Postpartum & Parent Bodywork
Pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and caregiving can bring new and unique demands on the body. I offer individualized bodywork to support comfort, mobility, and relaxation during these changes.
Sessions may incorporate relaxation massage, myofascial techniques, craniosacral therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, and other bodywork approaches as appropriate. Care is adapted to your stage of pregnancy or recovery, comfort level, health history, and individual needs.
Supportive side-lying and semi-reclined positioning are available to help you feel comfortable throughout your session.
For additional information on Prenatal, Postpartum & Parent Bodywork, please refer to the FAQ section below.
Pregnancy
Postpartum
Breast Massage & Lymphatic Drainage for lactation
Parent/Caregiver
Prenatal, Postpartum & Parent Bodywork
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a medical release form for bodywork if I am pregnant or postpartum?
In most cases, a medical release is not required for prenatal or postpartum bodywork. However, if you have a high-risk pregnancy, certain medical conditions, pregnancy-related complications, or other elevated-risk factors, I may request written clearance from your healthcare provider before treatment.
If you are unsure whether a medical release may be needed, please contact me before scheduling. Your health history and current condition will be reviewed to help ensure that bodywork is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
Can I receive bodywork during the first trimester?
In many cases, yes. Bodywork during the first trimester may be appropriate based on your health history, current symptoms, and any medical considerations.
Pregnancy bodywork is adapted to your individual needs and comfort level, with attention to positioning, pressure, and treatment goals. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, certain medical conditions, pregnancy-related complications, or other elevated-risk factors, I may request written clearance from your healthcare provider before treatment.
If you have questions about whether bodywork is appropriate for you during the first trimester, please contact me before scheduling.
How soon after birth can I receive a massage?
In many cases, bodywork can be received shortly after birth, depending on your comfort level, recovery, and any medical considerations. Some individuals choose to receive gentle postpartum bodywork within the first few days or weeks after delivery, while others prefer to wait longer.
If you experienced a cesarean birth, significant complications, or have concerns about your recovery, I may request written clearance from your healthcare provider before treatment.
Every postpartum experience is unique. Sessions are adapted to your stage of recovery, comfort level, and individual needs.
Am I able to receive manual lymphatic drainage if I am pregnant or postpartum?
Yes. Manual lymphatic drainage may be appropriate during pregnancy and the postpartum period and is used to help address pregnancy-related swelling and support the body’s natural lymphatic function. Treatment is always provided with consideration for your health history, stage of pregnancy or recovery, and any medical concerns.
If you have a high-risk pregnancy, certain medical conditions, pregnancy-related complications, or other elevated-risk factors, I may request written clearance from your healthcare provider before treatment.
How can manual lymphatic drainage support lactation?
Manual lymphatic drainage may help address breast swelling and engorgement by supporting lymphatic and fluid movement through and around the breast and surrounding areas.
MLD does not increase milk production directly, but it may support movement of fluids during lactation. Because MLD is an incredibly gentle and non-invasive manual treatment, it is well-suited to the highly vascular and sensitive areas of the lactating breast.
MLD is not appropriate during an acute infection, including active mastitis. If you have signs of an infection, medical evaluation and treatment should take priority before receiving MLD.
How are pregnant people positioned on your table?
Pregnancy bodywork is performed in positions that are both comfortable and supportive for your changing body. I use an adjustable table, as well as a variety of cushions and bolsters, to help you relax comfortably in either a semi-reclined or side-lying position.
Semi-reclined positioning: work is provided in a gently elevated position that provides comfortable support and allows you to rest without lying flat on your back.
Side-lying positioning: This positioning during pregnancy promotes comfort and supports the body's changing structure.
Positioning is always based on your stage of pregnancy, comfort level, and any medical considerations.