Pregnancy and Post-Partum Care
Creating a family is one of those sacred milestones of life. It is a process that transforms a woman physically, emotionally, and spiritually. At Bodyscapes, we understand the needs of each family member and offer healing and support every step of the way. Practitioners Ellie Pickering and Amanda Tarver combine their skills and expertise in order to provide the proper care and attention needed for each phase of the journey.
Phase One - Optimizing your Fertility
Getting pregnant sometimes happens without conscious effort and sometimes it requires more thoughtful effort. One thing you can always be sure of...it rarely happens according to plan. Whether you are just beginning your journey or preparing to go through Assisted Reproductive Technologies (IVF, IUI, etc), we can assist you in achieving optimal fertility. We can address underlining conditions that prevent conception and implantation from occurring such as irregular menstrual cycles, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, polycystic ovarian syndrome, low sperm count, etc. Treatment can also address recurrent miscarriage and unexplained infertility.
Phase Two - Pregnancy
A viable, healthy pregnancy is just as important as receiving a positive pregnancy test. Using acupuncture and massage therapy during pregnancy is a safe and wonderful way to maintain optimal health and nurture both you and your baby. Acupuncture is extremely effective at relieving nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Other symptoms that acupuncture and massage can alleviate include: heartburn, constipation, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, edema, sinusitis, anxiety, depression, insomnia, anemia, fatigue, and musculoskeletal pain.

Phase Three - Labor and Delivery
Acupuncture and massage are extremely effective healing modalities that can help alleviate your anxieties and fears related to the birthing process, as well as, ease the pain and discomfort of childbirth. Acupuncture can be safely applied as an alternative induction method that has no side effects and promotes an easier delivery.  There are also special acupuncture points and non-invasive techniques that can be used to address a breech presentation. Having a doula present at the birth will provide additional emotional and physical support as you celebrate the arrival of your child.

Phase Four - Post-Partum
After delivery, your body is at its most depleted state. This is an important time to receive treatment. During the post-partum period, treatment will focus on regaining strength and vitality; promoting successful lactation; healing from any surgical procedures; emotional support ; and post-partum depression. Post-partum treatment may involve acupuncture, Qi and blood building herbs, placenta supplements, and massage.

Phase Five - Bonding with Baby
Infant massage is a great way for you to solidify the bond that you have with your baby.  It is great for moms, dads, and anyone else who has an active part of raising the baby.  Learning to interact with your baby through touch has many benefits which include:
  • Supports baby's growth and development.
  • Encourages regular sleep patterns.
  • Stimulates language development and sensory integration.
  • Relieves discomfort of gas, constipation, colic, growing pains, and teething.
  • Provides opportunity for Dads to have playful interaction.
Set up your Support Team
Ellie Pickering and Amanda Tarver would be happy to meet with you to discuss a healing/support plan that fits your specific needs, time, and budget. Please feel free to contact us to set up a free consultation.

Ellie Pickering
Phone: (847)864-6464
Email: bodyscape1987@gmail.com

Amanda Tarver
Phone: (312)607-3194
Email: atarverlmt@gmail.com
Website: www.massageanddoula.com 


Doula Services
Picture
Doula services, placenta services, and infant massage classes are offered by my office partner, Amanda Tarver, LMT, CEIM, PES.


For more information, Amanda can be reached at atarverlmt@gmail.com