Massage appointment information +
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT FROM ANY OTHER PLACE THAT OFFERS PREGNANCY MASSAGE?
You wouldn't have a plumber paint your house right? No, you'd have a painter do it. But they're both skilled tradesmen?! Same idea. While many therapists are skilled at what they do, they're not all skilled and trained in working on pregnant women. I am extensively trained and certified, and SPECIALIZE in prenatal and postpartum massage. It's kind of my thing. You can certainly go to other places for massage, but these places are often "scared" of working on pregnant women. They don't work on women in their first trimester, they only use light pressure, they stay away from working on the feet and ankles, they make you lie on your side with ONE pillow. I'm not afraid to work on you! In fact, I am going to make sure we reduce your points of pain (I'm looking at you, low back and hips!) with the right amount of pressure and the most effective yet gentle stretching. You're in good hands.
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WHY SHOULD I WAIT UNTIL MY 2ND TRIMESTER TO GET A MASSAGE?
This is one of those MYTHS that just will not go away! Massage is one of the absolute best things a woman can do during her pregnancy! First trimester massages are usually the easiest for you to receive- most moms can still lie face down and flat on their backs for most of their first trimester. No, massage cannot cause miscarriages. There is no absolute data or research to support the notion that massage can cause a miscarriage. You can- and should- receive massages in every stage of your pregnancy.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY MASSAGE?
HOW FAR DO I UNDRESS?
WHAT IS THE RECOMMENDED FREQUENCY OF PRENATAL MASSAGE?
Typically there are no real ways to have to prepare other than get ready to be relaxed and rejuvenated! However, to get the most out of your experience, you can take these into consideration: If you have to grab a quick meal before your appointment, try to keep it light. If you can, show up comfortably dressed in clothing you can relax in and easily change in/out of. Try to arrive on time, or better yet- 10 minutes early! You will be given opportunities to take bathroom breaks before and during your massage.
While it's acceptable to be nude, it is also acceptable to leave on any under garments. This is totally up to you and what you are comfortable with. You will always be properly draped (only the area to be worked will be uncovered). The massage bed can be heated to your desired level. For seated/chair massage, you can remain fully clothed or wear a bathing suit/ sports bra and shorts.
HOW CAN PRENATAL MASSAGE HELP ME?
I recommend you come as frequently as your prenatal care visits. Once a month through your first and second trimesters; every other week up to week 36; weekly from week 36 on until you give birth. You can even come weekly, or every other week for your entire pregnancy - many mamas do!
At some point in pregnancy, most women experience some overall aches and pains, swelling, headaches, insomnia, low back, hip pain, and sore feet, to name a few. In short, massage will make you feel better in just about every way, which will make you a happier mama. No drawbacks there!
HOW SOON CAN I GET A MASSAGE AFTER I HAVE THE BABY/BABIES?
You can actually continue receiving massages DURING labor. How amazing is that?! If you'd like to have me there for labor massage, please contact me at Amy@hamiltonprenatal.com
After baby: Ideally, you would like to wait 2-3 days after a vaginal birth, and 2-3 weeks after an uncomplicated C-section. My adjustable bodyCushions™ support and make room for nursing mamas' breasts, which can often be painful and uncomfortable to lie on when face down. I recommend you continue to get massages every other week till your reach 16 weeks postpartum. Self care makes a HUGE difference to new, and even the most seasoned mom, as well as everyone around her in those early weeks and months.
CAN YOU COME TO MY HOUSE FOR A MASSAGE?
At this moment, I am not making any house calls, but if you have a special request please send me a detailed email and I will get back to you!
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The cancellation fee is 100% of your session rate.
Please cancel or reschedule your appointment no later than 24 hours of your scheduled session. This is in place in order to protect your time, other clients' time, and mine. Your appointment is dedicated to you- which means I am dedicated to you for that time. A last minute cancellation removes the opportunity for someone else who could have booked, and it is difficult for me to fill on short notice. Thank you for understanding and respecting the cancellation policy. There are no exceptions, whether due to illness, change of your personal schedule, etc. IF YOU FEEL ILL PLEASE DO NOT COME, you will not be allowed to receive a massage! That is to protect myself and others from illness. This policy is fully enforced, and by booking a session with me you are agreeing to the terms of this policy. Thanks again!