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:
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. |