One Question That Changed My Massage Intake Forever

Ok, let's talk pregnancy.

Chances are, if you've been a massage therapist for a while, you've had some type of prenatal massage training. There are several schools of thought on how these treatments should be structured. As long as you are providing a safe, appropriate, and mindful experience for the mom-to-be, you're on the right track.

On the other side of this discussion are therapists who have no interest in offering prenatal massage as part of their practice. To you, I say bravo. You shouldn't offer a service you have no interest in providing. That's something most clients would pick up on almost immediately.

Today's topic, though, is about broaching the subject of pregnancy with a female client who is scheduled for, say, a deep tissue massage or a spa treatment involving hot stones, heating pads, or certain aromatherapy products.

This is something I've put a lot of thought into, and here's why.

Years ago, when I was new to the spa world, I had a client who, during the intake process, blurted out, "I know on the form I checked 'No' to the pregnancy question, but I actually am pregnant."

She went on to say, "We're here for our friend's bachelorette party, and I didn't want to steal the limelight by letting them know I'm expecting. This is her day, and I want her to enjoy it."

How very noble of her, wouldn't you say?

Thankfully, she did tell me, and I was able to provide her with an appropriate service because I do offer massage during the first trimester. Some therapists and businesses do not, and we have to respect that.

After that session, I got to thinking: how many others choose not to announce their pregnancy early, whatever their reasons may be?

Almost immediately, I began asking a new question during my intake:

"Is there any chance you could be pregnant?"

More importantly, I placed the question right in the middle of my intake process. It's subtle, almost in passing, but I ask it every time. The conversation might sound something like this:

"So, are there any health issues other than what you've indicated on your intake form? Any bone, joint, or spine issues? Is there any chance you could be pregnant?"

I've received a lot of interesting—and sometimes humorous—responses over the years.

However, within about a week of adding that question, another client came in. After hearing it, she responded that she was indeed pregnant. It was very early in the pregnancy, and we discussed what receiving massage would look like in light of this new information.

In the years since, there have been many positive responses to the "Could you be pregnant?" question. By asking, we reinforce our goal of providing the safest and most appropriate treatment for every client. Having a solid understanding of the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy, along with the potential considerations associated with conditions such as gestational diabetes or an increased risk of blood clots, helps reinforce our credibility as allied healthcare professionals.

More than likely, you've worked on several women who were in their first trimester and weren't yet aware they were pregnant. With that said, the massage you provided most likely had no adverse effect on the pregnancy. However, the onus is on us, as massage therapists, to ensure we are always offering our clients the safest and most appropriate treatment options based on the information available.

Take a moment to consider adding this question to your intake process. It only adds a second or two to the conversation, but it has the potential to influence the entire treatment—for both your client's safety and your own peace of mind.