Perinatal Massage Training - A Comparison

In the twenty years of being involved in women's health through the lens of mothering, there still does not exist a standard for any of the forms of integrative care. Not all prenatal massage experience is created equal. Many businesses call themselves "highly specialized", but it is important to know that what constitutes as highly specialized, certified, or knowledgeable.

I acknowledge that this list is highly subjective, but it is a starting point for those who are serious about the competency and safety of theor bodywork choices. The best choice is the one that is most informed!

How to use this chart:

• What are your massage goals? Are you just looking for a generally relaxing massage, or are you looking for a solution to a painful pregnancy or postpartum related condition?
  • Example #1: If you are relatively pain free, experience light tiredness that you attribute to pregnancy, and would just like to have a relaxing massage that isn't trying to treat a specific area, most places that invite prenatal would likely be just fine - but ask for experienced prenatal therapists so it won't feel awkward.
  • Example #2: If you are experiencing specific discomfort in your hips, the feeling of a "pinched nerve" in one glute, any low back pain and more, you will want to seek out a specialist. Someone who is familiar with specific techniques that directly address these issues will be the best help.
• Once you know you main goal, ask your provider the specific questions about their qualifications and where they received training. 
• Many EXCELLENT massage therapists have not necessarily taken additional training for massage related specialty, or have a deep background working with women - just ASK if they can fulfill your goal for your massage session, and HOW. A good massage therapist or massage business with HIGH ETHICAL STANDARDS will answer this question honestly.
• It's important to note, that anyone offering ANY type of massage in exchange for payment must, by law, be licensed to do so. Natural exceptions that are in place are your hired support persons such as birth doulas that may use permission granted and informed choice comfort measures (using this terminology), as well as cranial sacral therapists whose touch is "the weight of a nickel".  Any other bodywork, or services that affect the body as a session for you or your infant or children MUST be licensed in most states (AZ, yes). 

Typical in School Training (if any)	Continuing Education ​3-12 hours	Continuing Education ​12-24 hours	Continuing Education and Certification ​32 + hours
Appropriate positioning, coverage/draping	Available as basic training if not available during original state licensing education	Some programs are up to 20 hours, and have more hands on, and some 24 hour programs are considered "certified"	Most 32 + hour programs award designation of Certified Maternity or Certified Perinatal Massage Therapist
Light pressure only	May be all online, in person, or combination.	Majority of program is hands on and in person	Program is entirely hands on and in person with textbook reading expected
Tend to avoid the first trimester	Conservative about first trimester massage	Dispel myths of working during first trimester	Safe pressure and techniques for all four trimesters
Tend to teach avoiding feet and ankles	Conservative about pressure, third trimester, and length of session	Encourage safe firm pressure appropriate throughout pregnancy stages	Additional advanced techniques taught including special circumstances such as miscarriage, stillbirth, multiples
Geared towards gentle relaxation	Gentle relaxation, some specific techniques	In addition to basic techniques, focused on specific pregnancy and postpartum issues and their techniques, may include attending births as a "massage doula"	Advanced techniques may include somatic awareness, in depth techniques for attending births as a "massage doula", and additional massage techniques for postpartum conditions
Rarely someone who specializes	May consider themselves specialized due to other perinatal experience (childbirth/lactation education, doula)	Training is intended for those who see many perinatal clients and intends to specialize	Strong emphasis on meeting criteria for working within a healthcare environment, as well as becoming known independently as a Perinatal Massage Specialist.
Offered most by spas/chains	Offered most by private massage employers, independent LMTs who also work in women's health	Offered for those wishing to specialize for employers, or as independent therapists.	Offered for those seeking to be known as a Certified Massage Specialist, and those seeking employment in cities where curriculum is recognized.