Perinatal is usually described as a number of weeks immediately before and after birth. My viewpoint expands this notion to what I call the time “surrounding birth,” encompassing pregnancy, birth, and 12 months after birth, or postpartum. Therefore, you can book a massage anywhere in this time frame.

In regards to packages & gift certificates that have more than one massage: the receiver can select to book all their massage sessions during pregnancy, all sessions during postpartum, or a combination of pregnancy & postpartum . . . it’s your choice!

Yes, most people can! According to the American Pregnancy Association, you can receive massage therapy at any time during your pregnancy, though consultation with your perinatal healthcare provider is recommended. As the pregnant body changes, people seek massage therapy for relaxation, to help alleviate specific discomforts, or a combination of both. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states: “Massage is a good way to relax and improve circulation.” These initial benefits for pregnant people contribute to better sleep and reduce anxiety, stress, back pain, joint pain, edema, muscle tension, and headaches.

Yes, most people can! The American Pregnancy Association suggests postpartum people can receive massage therapy when they are comfortable, though consultation with your perinatal healthcare provider is recommended. Initial benefits are similar to those gained from massage during pregnancy, including relaxation, stress reduction, and pain relief. Furthermore, postpartum massage therapy encourages hormone levels to balance after birth, increases circulation to help eliminate excess fluids, eases fatigue, and increases milk production for chest and breastfeeding.

Individuals who are experiencing a low-risk pregnancy do not need to complete a medical release form prior to their session.

When an individual’s pregnancy/postpartum is higher risk, or if they have experienced any complications or contraindicated conditions, my policy is to work with them only after they discuss massage therapy with their perinatal healthcare provider AND fill out my MEDICAL RELEASE FORM (please see below) before their session.

For more information on urgent maternal warning signs, pregnancy complications, or postpartum warning signs, please consult the following links:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Urgent Maternal Warning Signs

March of Dimes: Pregnancy Complications

March of Dimes: Postpartum Warning Signs

Positioning choices are based upon client comfort and safety. For instance, in the second & third trimesters of pregnancy and early postpartum, side-lying and semi-reclining positions are primarily used. I have a variety of cushions & pillows for flexibility and we will strategize what will be most beneficial for your session during our information sharing time, or intake. When I arrive, you may wonder if I’m moving into your home with all my gear! NO, just coming to give you a massage!

Not at this time and am considered an out-of-network provider. If seeking reimbursement from your insurance company, contact them ahead of time to understand their policy, reimbursement rates, and submission process. You may be able to submit your receipt from MassageBook for this purpose or they may request a “superbill” invoice, which I can generate for you. Lastly, if a superbill is required, ask if you need to get an ICD-10 diagnosis code…you can request this from your medical healthcare provider, then submit to me for your superbill invoice. When booking a massage appointment, payment can be made with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Health Savings Account, and Flexible Spending Account.

Notify Deanne at your earliest convenience and be assured that cancellation fees will not apply in this circumstance. Your account will be credited so you can reschedule your appointment on the other side of wellness.

Within Balance has a mask optional policy. Clients can wear a mask if they prefer and may request Deanne wear one as well. Click HERE to read further information about COVID-19.