Postnatal Massage Course

Lesson 1 • Scope of Practice and Ethics

Defines professional boundaries, informed consent, and ethical responsibilities in postnatal care. Ensures practitioners operate within safe, legally appropriate limits.

Lesson 2 • Postpartum Physiology Overview

Covers uterine involution, hormonal shifts, and tissue healing timelines after birth. Provides the anatomical baseline for all subsequent massage decisions.

Lesson 3 • Benefits of Postnatal Massage

Examines evidence-based physical and psychological benefits of postnatal massage. Links research outcomes to practical treatment goals for new mothers.

Lesson 1 • Back, Shoulder, and Neck Structures

Identifies muscles and fascia of the upper and lower back stressed by feeding postures and infant carrying. Guides targeted relief techniques for common postpartum complaints.

Lesson 2 • Core and Pelvic Floor Anatomy

Examines the deep core muscles and pelvic floor layers altered by pregnancy and delivery. Connects structural knowledge to safe abdominal and pelvic massage approaches.

Lesson 3 • Lower Limb and Circulatory Anatomy

Covers venous return, oedema pathways, and lower limb musculature affected by postpartum fluid retention. Supports safe leg massage and oedema management techniques.

Lesson 1 • Postural and Movement Assessment

Applies observation and movement screening to identify postural imbalances from pregnancy and feeding. Findings directly inform session focus and positioning choices.

Lesson 2 • Contraindications and Precautions

Identifies absolute and relative contraindications specific to the postpartum period. Teaches decision-making frameworks for modifying or deferring treatment.

Lesson 3 • Health History and Intake Forms

Designs comprehensive intake forms capturing birth type, medical history, and current symptoms. Accurate intake data drives safe, individualised treatment planning.

Lesson 1 • Cesarean Section Positioning Adaptations

Addresses positioning modifications required to protect cesarean incision sites during massage. Students learn to deliver effective treatment without compromising wound integrity.

Lesson 2 • Draping Techniques and Modesty

Demonstrates professional draping methods that maintain client modesty while allowing full access to treatment areas. Consistent draping builds trust and meets professional standards.

Lesson 3 • Breastfeeding and Feeding Posture Support

Integrates massage positioning with breastfeeding comfort and feeding posture correction. Supports mothers who may need to feed during or between treatment sessions.

Lesson 1 • Lymphatic Drainage Techniques

Covers manual lymphatic drainage strokes adapted for postpartum oedema and breast engorgement. Correct sequencing and light pressure are emphasised for safe fluid movement.

Lesson 2 • Friction and Myofascial Techniques

Introduces cross-fibre friction and fascial release methods for scar tissue, adhesions, and deep tension. Builds precision skills for targeted structural work.

Lesson 3 • Trigger Point and Acupressure Methods

Applies sustained pressure and acupressure point stimulation to relieve referred pain and muscle tension. Integrates these methods into broader postnatal treatment sequences.

Lesson 1 • Leg and Foot Oedema Protocol

Delivers a structured lower limb sequence to reduce postpartum oedema and improve venous return. Includes foot reflexology integration for systemic relaxation benefits.

Lesson 2 • Neck, Shoulder, and Upper Back Protocol

Targets tension patterns from feeding, infant carrying, and sleep deprivation postures. Sequences progress from superficial relaxation to deeper structural release.

Lesson 3 • Breast and Chest Massage Protocol

Provides safe techniques for breast engorgement, blocked ducts, and chest wall tension. Establishes clear boundaries and consent procedures specific to breast massage.

Lesson 4 • Abdominal Massage and Uterine Support

Teaches gentle abdominal techniques to support uterine involution, reduce bloating, and address diastasis recti. Timing and pressure guidelines ensure safety at each recovery stage.

Lesson 1 • Cesarean Scar Tissue Management

Introduces scar mobilisation techniques applied after full wound closure to reduce adhesions and restore tissue mobility. Timing protocols prevent premature intervention on healing tissue.

Lesson 2 • Adapting Techniques for Medical Devices

Teaches safe massage delivery around drains, catheters, IV lines, and monitoring equipment. Ensures practitioners maintain effectiveness without compromising medical management.

Lesson 3 • Perineal Trauma and Pelvic Pain

Addresses massage approaches for clients with perineal tears, episiotomies, or pelvic floor dysfunction. Emphasises referral pathways and collaborative care with pelvic health specialists.

Lesson 1 • Designing a Complete Session Plan

Structures a full postnatal session from intake review through closing techniques and aftercare. Balances time, client energy levels, and treatment priorities within a single appointment.

Lesson 2 • Trauma-Informed Practice in Sessions

Applies trauma-informed principles to session delivery for clients with birth trauma or perinatal loss. Creates a consistently safe, empowering therapeutic environment.

Lesson 3 • Supervised Clinical Practice

Delivers observed postnatal massage sessions with structured feedback from qualified supervisors. Consolidates technical competence and professional confidence before independent practice.