Authored by a well-known expert on prenatal massage, this comprehensive text helps you understand the intricate physiology of pregnancy so you can confidently apply appropriate massage techniques for each trimester, and throughout labor and postpartum. You'll find clear, colorfully illustrated explanations of a wide range of techniques and procedures, including Swedish massage, acupuncture points, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, lymphatic drainage, and reflexology. A companion DVD packaged with the book enables you to watch demonstrations of techniques. Contraindications and precautions are also provided where necessary to help you provide safe and effective care for every client.

Table of Contents

Unit One: Pregnancy Massage 1. The Benefits of Prenatal Massage 2. Dispelling the Myths of Prenatal Massage 3. General Prenatal Massage Guidelines 4. Emotional and Psychological Effects of Pregnancy 5. Physiology of Pregnancy 6. Contraindications and Precautions of Prenatal Massage 7. Treating High Risk and Bedridden Pregnancies 8. Preconception Support 9. Massage During the First Trimester and Fetal Development 10. Massage During Second Trimester and Fetal Development 11. Massage During Third Trimester and Fetal Development 12. Massage for Labor Preparation 13. Sitting Massage 14. Massage for Common Discomforts of Pregnancy 15. Multiples Unit Two: Labor Massage 16. Physiology of Labor 17. Stimulating Labor 18. Benefits of Touch During Labor 19. Labor Support Massage Unit Three: Postpartum Massage 20. Postpartum Complications 21. Immediate Postpartum Physiology and Treatment Goals 22. Puerperium Physiology and Treatment Goals 23. Extended Postpartum Physiology and Treatment Goals Unit Four: Marketing Strategies 24. Marketing Strategies Glossary of Terms Resources