Pregnancy Release Form
There are several observed or identified potential benefits to massage therapy during pregnancy including:
• Relieves muscular tension, especially in the lower back, upper back, shoulders and neck
• Reduces stress on weight-bearing joints
• Enhances body awareness for better posture and less discomfort
• Assists with body mechanics and movement during structural change
• Supports birth process by relaxing muscles involved in labor an birth
• Eases anxiety and stress during time of transition
• Provides emotional support and nurturance
Prenatal Massage Therapy Contraindications
Performing massage therapy during pregnancy is contraindicated for women experiencing any of the following symptoms/signs:
• Bloody discharge
• Continual abdominal pains
• Sudden gush or leakage of amniotic fluid
• Sudden, rapid weight gain
• Increased blood pressure
• Protein or sugar in urine
• Severe back pain that does not subside with the change in position
• Visual disturbances
• Severe nausea and /or vomiting
• Severe headaches
• Excessive hunger and thirst
• Increased urination in the second trimester
• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Excessive swelling in our arms or legs
• A decrease in fetal movement over a twenty-four hour period
Some additional conditions that contraindicate massage therapy are any phlebitis,
thrombosis, or suspected clotting conditions, any kidney, liver or spleen compromise or infection. Local massage on areas with severe varicose veins and swelling are avoided due to clotting risk.
Prenatal High Risk Pregnancies
It is a strict policy of diVINE SPA to require a signed doctor's release form in order for the client to receive massage therapy services if a client has a high risk pregnancy. High risk pregnancies include, but are not limited to:
1.) Early labor, miscarriage threat, placental or cervical dysfunction;
2.) Gestational Edema Proteinuria Hypertension (GEPH);
3.) Preeclampsia;
4.) Gestational Diabetes;
5.) Pre-existing cardiac, renal, connective tissues or liver disorders/diseases;
6.) Fetal genetic disorders;
7.) Complications in previous pregnancies;
8.) Three or more miscarriages
I have received and read the written information about the benefits and possible contraindications of massage therapy during pregnancy. I understand the information and confirm that:
• I have not experienced any of the complications listed on the sheet below;
• I have not experienced any of the conditions listed, which would make it unwise to have
massage therapy;
• I am experiencing a low-risk pregnancy;
• I am receiving medical care including regular check-ups throughout my pregnancy.
I understand that I will be receiving massage therapy as a form of adjunctive health care only and that this therapy is not intended to replace appropriate medical care.
Having been fully advised of the risks, contraindications, and complications to massage therapy during pregnancy, I have decided to participate in the therapy. Accordingly, I do forever release the practitioners and their insurers, and their respective officers, directors, stockholders, successors, employees and agents from all liability of any nature whatsoever, whether past, present, or future for injury or damage which may occur to myself or my family as a result of my receiving massage therapy during this childbearing year.
I further agree to hold harmless and defend the practitioner of and from all actions, claims, or other legal or administrative action that has arisen or may arise directly from my and my child's participation in this therapy.