• I am not pregnant, can I enjoy your spa?
Of course! All of our therapists are North Carolina licensed massage therapists who have years of experience massaging non-pregnant clients. They just chose to get additional training in pregnancy massage.
• Can my male partner receive a treatment?
Yes. It is highly encouraged that both partners get regular massage during "the childbearing year".(a few months prior to conception, during pregnancy and the month after birth)
• How often should a pregnant woman receive massage?
That depends on your individual needs. Feel free to discuss this with your therapist at your first appointment. As a general rule, we recommend 1 massage per month during the first trimester and twice per month in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters.
• Do you do deep tissue massage?
As needed and desired.
• Can I lie face down during my treatment?
Most women can lie face down in the first trimester. After that, we will assist you in finding a very comfortable side-lying position in order to work on your back.
• I heard pregnant women shouldn't get their feet massaged because it can cause them to go into labor.
You can feel completely comfortable having your feet massaged here. Our foot massages don't use the sustained pressure on specific acupuncture points that can cause contractions.
• I have heard that some essential oils are unsafe during pregnancy. Which oils do you use?
Generally speaking, the oils that are safe during pregnancy either come from flowers or citrus fruits. We respect the power of essential oils and believe they deepen your experience in a positive way. All of our treatments begin with an inhalation of lavender oil to help you relax. First trimester moms are massaged with unscented oil. There are four choices of oil in the second and third trimesters. Lavender, Australian Sandalwood, Geranium and Unscented. All of our oils are fresh and organic.
• Can massage cause a miscarriage?
No. No abdominal massage will be used during the first trimester. Massage has never been linked to miscarriage. Should you or someone you know have a miscarriage, we recommend Swedish massage and Reiki as part of your recovery and healing.
• I am a high risk pregnancy. Can I enjoy your spa?
Yes, with permission from your doctor. Please bring signed Health Release form.
• How soon after birth can I receive a postpartum massage?
After 24 hours with a normal vaginal delivery. Mothers who had cesareans should wait until they get their doctor/midwives permission. Please bring signed Health Release form.
• Do you ever do home visits?
Yes, particularly if someone is on bed rest.
• I am overwhelmed by the variety of treatment choices. What do you suggest?
First trimester-Pregnancy Massage/Reiki
Second trimester-Stones/Pregnancy Massage/Reflexology
Third trimester-Belly facial/Pregnancy Massage/Foot Treatment
Do you offer discounted massage packages?
Yes, you get a percent off your treatments when you pay in advance for one of our packages. Call for details.
How should I prepare for my first treatment?
On your first visit please arrive at least 30 minutes early so you can receive a tour of our spa/boutique and see all that we have to offer. If you are a high-risk pregnancy or have any of the complications listed in column two or three of our Pregnancy Intake form, please bring a signed Health Release form to your appointment.
Is pregnancy massage beneficial for the baby?
Most definitely! Studies have shown that when you receive a relaxing massage during pregnancy, your body secretes "feel good" hormones called endorphins. These hormones cross the placenta and ultimately soothe and relax your baby.
Do you offer infant massage?
Not currently, but we can refer you to people in the community who offer instruction. Additionally, we have many books for rent about infant massage in our lending library.
Are your therapists certified in Perinatal massage?
Our primary therapists all hold Perinatal Massage Certificates that we are happy to show you upon request. We have some back-up therapists who have Pregnancy massage training, but not necessarily full blown "certification" They receive additional training once employed here.
I want to visit your spa with some of my friends. How many rooms do you have?
Currently we have two rooms available for treatments. If you have a group, please inquire about "Spa Parties" with our receptionist.
Should I tip my massage therapist?
Gratuities are greatly appreciated.If you are pleased with you treatment, it is usual and customary to tip your therapist 15 to 20% of the cost of the service depending on your level of enjoyment.
What are the benefits of Pregnancy Massage?
Pregnancy massage offers a variety of benefits. Some of them include: relief of stress on weight-bearing joints, reduced anxiety, improved mood, reduction of stress hormones, better sleep, reduction of swelling, aids postural alignment, and reduction of muscle tension. Your baby also benefits. Happy and relaxed mom equals happy, relaxed baby.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
As a courtesy to other guests and our staff, cancellation and treatment type/length changes must be received at least 24 hours in advance of proposed treatment time in order to avoid a charge of $30.
Do you offer massage to children?
At the spa director's discretion. We realize that little ones have stress,too. Massage therapy is an excellent tool to help them with body awareness and a reduction of physical tension and emotional stress. In most cases, a parent will need to be present in the massage room and sign a waiver for the child.
I am interested in knowing more about doulas (labor assistants) and other resources in the Asheville community that can assist me through this special time. Where can I learn more?
Education is one of the services we proudly offer at Spa Materna. Please come by and visit our Resource Wall and Lending Library frequently. You will find a wide array of books, DVDs and CDs for rent for a nominal fee. Also, we will have available Mommy-to-Mommy notebooks, a doula directory for this area, a monthly display on pertinent topics and a resource bulletin board.
(828) 254-2222
Call today to schedule your appointment!
