What is prenatal massage?

 It is a massage that focuses on pregnant women and the changing needs of their bodies. Using specialty pillows and extra training, we make it safe to receive a massage while pregnant throughout your pregnancy. We can focus on areas like the hips, glutes, low back and feet as those take the brunt of a lot of the changes in the body. Each session is tailored to what your body needs at the time you come in for your service.

Is it dangerous to get a massage while pregnant?

Massage supports a healthy pregnancy and does not cause miscarriage or induce preterm labor. However, there are special considerations and prenatal massage should ONLY be performed by a therapist with extensive training and certifications.

Are there certain things you can or cannot do on a pregnant women 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. (We can tell you why, if you need further clarification). The main difference is that we don't do super deep sports-massage type techniques on your legs (but most women don't want that), and we 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 us for clarification.

What do I need to wear?

Come as you are. Once you get in the massage room the therapist will introduce you to the massage table and explain how to get on it. They will ask you to get completely undressed after they step out for a moment, as we 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 and a large bath towel, 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 the therapist will check in with you to make sure you are not too cold or too hot.

I can find a cheap massage on groupon, why should I choose you?

Basically, you get what you pay for. We have had extensive training in prenatal massage and years of experience. No cookie cutter massage here, each session is tailored  specifically for you and your needs. We don’t treat you as if you are fragile and can do a deeper pressure if that is your preference. We also have specialized orthopedic body support cushions that adjust to accommodate your growing tummy and breasts throughout your pregnancy.

What is required to book an appointment? What if I need to cancel?

When you call to book your appointment, we will need to know how far along you are and if you have any high risk issues with your pregnancy. We also do require a credit card to hold your spot. That card will not be charged until the day of service, and you can change your payment method on that day. When you book your appointment that spot is reserved for you and cannot be offered to another client. We require at least 24 hour notice for any rescheduling or cancellation. You can reach us at 801-651-0916 anytime to do this, just text or leave a message. You can also email us at clarissahansenlmt@gmail.com Cancelling or no-showing without 24 hour notice will result in a fee equal to 50% of the service you were booked for. If you give us 24 hour or more notice there will be no charge. If you are in labor, please try to give us as much notice as possible to change your appointment to a postpartum massage. We will charge your card for 50% the service amount without 3 hours notice before the appointment if you are in labor. Pre-Paid packages are NON-REFUNDABLE and expire one year from the date of purchase. You may use prepaid, unexpired sessions at any time before, during or after your pregnancy. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.

How often should I get a massage?

Although this will vary for every woman, we generally recommend you do it in conjunction with your prenatal midwife/doctor visits. This would mean that you get a massage once per month until you are 27 weeks along. At that point we would encourage bi-monthly massages until you hit 36 weeks and then weekly massages until you give birth. Many people choose to do every other week throughout their pregnancy and right on through postpartum. We can work with you to recommend a program that fits your needs.

Can I lay on my belly?

We use special orthopedic pillows that adjust to your belly and breasts throughout the pregnancy. These enable you to lie facedown comfortably and safely during the massage. Many massage clinics will offer maternity massage but will only do it in side posture. While we can do that if it’s more comfortable, you are able to lay facedown during a massage with the use of our specialty supports.

How long of a massage should I get?

Each massage is tailored to your specific needs. If you want a full-body massage, we require a minimum of 60 minutes. Although 75 or 90 minutes is even better and allows us to cover the entire body as well as focus on a few different trouble areas. 30 minute massages are great for treatment of just 1-2 areas.

Do I need permission from my care provider before booking a massage?

We are confident working with almost every pregnant woman. However, if you have certain high-risk conditions that can be inflamed by increased blood flow we do recommend speaking with your prenatal doctor. If you have any questions about this, please ask one of our therapists when booking your appointment.

How often after I give birth can I get a massage?

It is easy to forget about taking care of yourself after giving birth. But we promise that postpartum greatly improves your mental, physical and emotional health. We liken a postpartum massage to a sports massage after running a marathon. You crossed the finish line and you were running on adrenaline and willpower for the last little bit. Your body needs help healing… and we got you covered!  You can begin treatment after 5 days (we recommend within the first 10) and then every other week for the first 16 weeks. There are certain methods and areas we will focus on to help your body recover. It will also help with stress and anxiety. The good endorphins released during a massage can help you feel more rested and calm, letting you enjoy the time with your newborn even more. BONUS: you can bring your baby with you and we aren’t afraid of leaking.

I’m DONE being pregnant, can you induce may labor?

I wish there was a magic eject button! Labor stimulation massage can be started at 39 weeks. We can’t guarantee that it will put you into labor but utilizing a series of acupressure points we can hopefully help you get the process started. Also, one of the fastest ways to STOP labor, is to stress about it. Let us help you relax and get your body ready to go naturally into labor.

Do you only work on pregnant women?

Absolutely not! Although the majority of our clients are pregnant, we also treat moms postpartum as well as dads and kids. Massage is beneficial to everyone through all stages of life, and we provide care for anyone who needs it. I have experience in deep tissue, sports and other modalities as well. Just ask when booking.

Can you bill my insurance?

At this time we do not bill insurance, however, if your plan uses a health savings account (HSA) or flex spending account, you can use those to pay for the massage.