FAQs

These techniques weave together traditional wisdom and modern science. Rooted in the ancient Maya practice of abdominal massage, this work was developed by Dr. Rosita Arvigo, who studied for more than 40 years with traditional healers in Central America. She combined their teachings with her extensive knowledge of anatomy and her Naprapathic training—a practice similar to chiropractic, but focused on soft tissue manipulation and stretching rather than bone adjustment. Through gentle, external massage, the organs are invited back into balance, encouraging healthy flow of blood, lymph, and nerve communication throughout the abdomen. With this renewed circulation, the body can realign and restore its natural harmony.

So many! I often find myself explaining it is good for all things reproductive and digestive in all bodies. It also helps colicky babies and children. And it is very effective in aiding recovery from any abdominal surgery. Here is a shortlist:

• Pelvic Pain

• Menstrual pain and endometriosis

• Ovarian cysts and PCOS

• Chronic yeast, BV and bladder infections

• Urinary incontinence

• Pelvic organ prolapse

• Digestive disorders of all kinds

• Scar tissue and surgical recovery

• Prostate problems, Erectile Dysfunction and Impotence

In the Childbearing Year, Abdominal Therapy Supports:

• Optimal fertility for both partners

• Ease and comfort in pregnancy

• Smooth Delivery

• Postpartum Recovery

• Healing from cesarean birth and preparation for VBAC

No, this work is not painful. Because many people haven’t experienced abdominal massage before, it’s normal to notice some tenderness or new sensations during and after the first session. I always adjust pressure to ensure your comfort and help you feel at ease. Most people find the experience deeply soothing, grounding, and relaxing.

Yes it can support all paths to conception, including IUI and IVF. Regular professional sessions, combined with self massage at home, can help improve follicle maturation, cervical fluid, uterine lining and uterine blood supply. Vaginal steams before insemination or embryo transfer can help soften and prepare the cervix, making the process more easeful. Beyond the physical benefits, the nurturing touch and deep relaxation of this work invite you to settle into the process—reducing stress and opening space for conscious, intentional conception, in whatever form it takes for you.

Yes, you can safely receive Abdominal Therapy with an IUD in place. However, if you’re seeking treatment for womb-related conditions, it’s not ideal for deeper work. The techniques are modified, and I use very gentle pressure over the lower abdomen to ensure comfort and safety. Deeper massage—used to support issues like painful periods or cesarean recovery—is most effective when an IUD is not present.

Absolutely! This work is helpful for people of all genders. When working with clients on fertility issues, it can be beneficial to see both partners as Abdominal Therapy can improve sperm health and transport. It is also supportive for erectile function and prostate health. 

However you identify, you have a body — an anatomy — which may be ailing and in need of support. Whether we work with specific complaints or not, abdominal massage can help you love your body back into alignment with your whole being.

This varies depending on each individual and the issue being addressed. More complex concerns, such as endometriosis, can take longer to respond than issues like constipation or sacral discomfort. With consistent self-massage and following the suggested supportive practices between sessions, most people notice positive changes within 6–8 weeks. Typically, I recommend starting with four sessions, then reassessing to see if additional work would be beneficial.

Please do not schedule for a time when you expect to be menstruating, and if possible, in the 5 days prior as well given that the uterus is full. If you are actively trying to conceive, it’s best to come in between the end of menses and ovulation. 

I will arrive at your chosen location with my equipment & supplies. Before our session I will ask you to collect various sized pillows and a simple chair and to find a quiet space the size of a twin bed for us to work in. Once I’ve set-up my equipment we will have a brief conversation based on the information provided in the intake form & agree on a specialized session plan for your unique needs. (15 minutes)

I will then leave to wash my hands in a sink while you disrobe to your comfort level & get cozy underneath the sheets in the agreed on position (prone, supine or side-lying). Upon my return, I will ensure that you are prepared for me to enter the space. I will then make any necessary adjustments to the table & ask if you have any needs or questions before we begin the session. I will ask you if you consent to touch & after you’ve consented we will begin our hands on time. (75-90min)

I will end the session by gently thanking you & telling you that our time is complete. I will remove bolsters or pillows then instruct you to take your time getting up & dressed while I leave the room to wash my hands. Upon my return, I will ensure that you are prepared for me to enter the space. I will then sanitize & pack my equipment. We will end the session with a conversation based on your experience & process payment. (15 minutes)

The session process is subject to change depending on needs & accessibility.