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Prenatal Wellness Massage

an introduction to intake, assessment,
and treatment planning for prenatal massage

Created and instructed by
Jennifer Carlson, LMT, BCTMB


In-person, Hands-On
16 CEs
NCBTMB Approved

Course Date/Time

Sunday
November 8th, and
November 15th, 2026
9am to 5pm

Location

NJ School of Massage
216 Main St #1
Toms River, NJ 08753

Overview

This introductory prenatal massage course provides licensed massage therapists with foundational knowledge and practical skills to safely and effectively work with pregnant clients. The course emphasizes maternal physiology, trimester-specific adaptations, contraindications, positioning, therapeutic techniques, and professional boundaries. Therapists will gain confidence in creating safe, nurturing sessions that support comfort, relaxation, and overall prenatal wellness.

Learning Objectives

  • Explain physiological and anatomical changes during pregnancy
  • Identify indications, contraindications, and precautions for prenatal massage
  • Demonstrate safe positioning and bolstering techniques
  • Apply trimester-appropriate massage techniques
  • Modify sessions based on client comfort, symptoms, and risk factors
  • Communicate professionally with prenatal clients and healthcare providers
  • Practice within ethical and legal scope for prenatal massage therapy

Day 1

The first 8 hours of training focus on building a strong theoretical and safety-based foundation for prenatal massage therapy. Participants explore the physiological, anatomical, and hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy and how these changes impact massage planning and technique. Emphasis is placed on trimester-specific considerations, common pregnancy-related conditions, and understanding both absolute and relative contraindications.

Students learn proper client screening, intake procedures, informed consent, and ethical responsibilities when working with pregnant clients. This portion of the course also addresses safety protocols, high-risk pregnancy awareness, professional scope of practice, and when referral or medical clearance is required. By the end of the first 8 hours, participants will have the knowledge and confidence to make sound clinical decisions and create safe, appropriate treatment plans for prenatal clients.

Day 2

The second 8 hours of training are dedicated to hands-on application and clinical skill development. Participants learn safe positioning and bolstering techniques, proper draping, therapist body mechanics, and environment setup to ensure comfort and safety for both client and practitioner. Emphasis is placed on trimester-appropriate massage techniques for the upper and lower body, including adaptations for common discomforts such as low back pain, hip tension, edema, and postural strain.

Students practice pressure modulation, pacing, and communication skills specific to prenatal clients. This portion also covers full-session flow, documentation, professional boundaries, and trauma-informed care. By the conclusion of the second 8 hours, participants will be able to confidently deliver a complete prenatal massage session that is safe, nurturing, and responsive to individual client needs.