Prenatal Recipe

Intake & Safety Check

Confirm the client is in second or third trimester and has obstetric clearance. Review medical history, current pregnancy symptoms (swelling, blood pressure, varicose veins), medications, and any contraindications. Obtain informed consent and explain what the session will include and any positions that will be used (side-lying, semi-reclined).

Ask the client to use the restroom and remove any jewelry or garments as desired, leaving undergarments on if they prefer. Provide towels/blankets for draping and warmth.

Set up the treatment area with soft lighting and calming music. Ensure the room temperature is comfortable. Position the table or chair so you can easily move around the client. Have pillows/bolsters and towels within reach.

Place one bolster behind the client’s back if semi-reclined on a table or chair. For full body work, position the client in a supported left or right side-lying position: lower leg bent for stability, upper leg supported by a pillow between knees, and a pillow under the head. Use an extra pillow under the abdomen if the client requests additional comfort. Ensure the client feels stable and able to breathe comfortably.

In a small bowl, warm approximately 60 ml of hypoallergenic massage oil or lotion between your hands. If using aromatherapy, add up to 3 drops of a pregnancy-safe essential oil (lavender or mandarin) into the oil and mix well. Check with the client about scent sensitivity before applying.

Apply a small amount of warmed oil to your hands. Begin with gentle effleurage (long gliding strokes) along the shoulders and base of the neck for 2–3 minutes to promote relaxation. Use light to medium pressure, avoiding deep pressure over the cervical spine and avoiding hyperextension of the neck. Follow with gentle circular petrissage on the upper trapezius and base of skull for 1–2 minutes to relieve tension, checking comfort frequently.

With the client side-lying, use long, rhythmic effleurage strokes along the paraspinal muscles and latissimus dorsi for 3–4 minutes to improve circulation. Avoid heavy pressure directly over the spine; instead use flat of hand strokes and light kneading along the muscle bellies. Use light tapotement or light cupping only if the client enjoys it and tolerates it well.

Support the client’s forearm on a pillow. Apply oil and perform gentle effleurage from shoulder to wrist, followed by thumb-walking along the forearm muscles for 1–2 minutes. Finish with gentle circular motions and compression at the palm and gentle traction of each finger to reduce swelling and tension.

Work on the lower back and sacroiliac area using light to moderate pressure, staying lateral to the spine and avoiding direct pressure on lumbar vertebrae. Use gliding strokes, gentle kneading, and broad compressions for 3–4 minutes. Focus on hips and gluteal muscles with gentle kneading and myofascial releases to ease hip discomfort, checking for pain or sensitivity frequently.

With the client side-lying and legs supported, warm oil and use long effleurage strokes from thigh to ankle to encourage venous return for 2–3 minutes per leg. Use gentle petrissage on the calves and avoid deep friction over varicose veins. For ankles and feet, use lighter strokes and gentle thumb circles on plantar surfaces. If swelling (edema) is present, work gently towards the heart and avoid deep pressure. Finish with light compression and elevation as tolerated.

Only perform abdominal touch or massage with explicit client consent and clearance from their healthcare provider. If approved and the client is comfortable, use very gentle, superficial stroking (no deep pressure) while the client is side-lying or semi-reclined, always avoiding direct deep pressure on the uterus. Focus on comforting touch and breathing support for 1–2 minutes.

Return to the upper shoulders and neck and perform 1–2 minutes of gentle soothing strokes and light compressions to calm the nervous system. Allow the client a few minutes of quiet rest while draped. Offer water and remind them to rise slowly to avoid dizziness.

Help the client sit up slowly and provide water. Discuss any areas of soreness, provide homecare suggestions (gentle stretches, hydration, and rest), and document the session details, including any reactions. Clean and sanitize equipment and wash hands before leaving the room.