Natal just refers to Pregnancy. This type of massage can essentially be thought of as a combination of Relaxation Massage and Therapeutic Massage that accommodates the special needs of a woman who is pregnant (All nine months of it!), in labor, or in the year or two after having given birth. Although I have specific training for this treatment, as traditional massage, I can also treat using Myoskeletal Alignment Therapy (Extended)™ - MAT(E)™ - techniques, even on the table.

Before, during, and after childbirth, a woman's body undergoes many physical and hormonal changes. Headaches, joint aches, edema, foot/back and other pain, and muscle tightness, are among the many conditions treated. Diastasis Recti (split abdomen) can be prevented or reduced, or helped to heal after the fact. It is possible to accustom Baby to touch, and to allow delivery to be easier. Where most massage modalities are given in the flat prone and supine positions (lying on the back and abdomen), Pregnancy Massage is often given in side-lying and partially propped positions, using bolsters, regular and special pillows, and more.

You may want to discuss your options with me directly: therapist@the-dragonfly.com

This is generally provided as a Combo or Thorough Traditional Table massage session. Be sure to include a note when you book.

Special Notes:

• Due to several misconceptions, many spas/clinics/therapists do not offer massage during the first trimester - I do. It is perfectly safe.
• The pressure points which are said to induce labor require a LOT of sustained pressure, if they will work at all, so there is no danger of a spontaneous birth. Similarly, do not ask for me to try to induce labor, as it will almost certainly fail.
• Massage can sometimes be provided once contractions start, and leading up to the child birth. However, arranging for it can be very hit and miss (depending on availability, and when the process starts), and it is usually quite costly, because it is on-site and lengthy (i.e. possibly 10-12 hours). It might be a service provided by your delivery hospital, though I doubt it is available around here.
• Pregnancy Massage Pads that allow you to be face down, with cutouts for breasts and belly, if not used carefully, can overstretch certain pelvic ligaments, which can be detrimental to your health in the future. (This may be okay with suitable padding within the cutouts so that your belly, for example, is not actually hanging.) Do you think their one size fits all? I do not use Pregnancy Massage Pads.