Postnatal Massage & Its Advantages
What is Postnatal Massage?
Postnatal massage, also known as “pregnancy massage ,” helps relieve the aches and pains associated with childbirth. Postpartum women suffer from a number of discomforts brought on by their changing bodies. Postnatal massage can help with these discomforts by restoring the body’s natural balance. A trained professional, such as a midwife or doula, may perform this type of massage. Besides physical benefits, it can also provide emotional comfort and improve mothers’ relationships with their newborns.
What Does Postnatal Massage Involve?
Postnatal massage is similar to Swedish massage . However, the focus is on the following areas:
- The neck and shoulders
- Lower back
- Hips
- Buttocks
- Breasts
- Abdomen
- Feet
The therapist may also perform exercises to help stretch tight muscles and promote blood circulation in these areas Some of these include:
- Thigh stretches
- Kegel exercises
- Pelvic tilt exercises
- Spinal twist stretch
- Neck stretch
What Can I Expect During a Session?
Your therapist should communicate with you throughout the session to ensure your comfort and safety. In addition, the therapist should ask if there are any sensitive areas in your body. Having a massage while pregnant can be very relaxing, but due to increased blood circulation, expect some heat from these areas. You may also experience some pressure but it should not be too painful. If the therapist applies too much pressure, let her know and she can adjust accordingly.
How Long Does a Session Last?
Typically, sessions last about 45 minutes to an hour. Since postnatal massage focuses on alleviating pain and discomfort in certain areas of the body, you may need multiple sessions. Be sure to communicate with your therapist about the length of your sessions to avoid any extra charges.
10 Advantages of Postnatal Massage:
1. Relaxes and Reduces Tension: Massage therapy is an excellent way to relax and release stress. It can also help you unwind after a long day of caring for your baby.
2. Promotes Better Sleep: If you’re having trouble sleeping due to discomfort or anxiety, massage may be just what the doctor ordered. A good night’s sleep helps decrease fatigue and improve mental clarity.
3. Increases Circulation: Increased blood circulation helps your body function better. It also helps your uterus return to its initial size after childbirth. A postnatal massage can help with these issues by relaxing the muscles and improving the flow of blood in the pelvic area.
4. Speeds up Recovery Time: If you’ve recently given birth, a postnatal massage helps your body heal faster. It also helps relieve vaginal discomfort and pain caused by scar tissue or hemorrhoids.
5. Increases Milk Flow: Breastfeeding mothers can also benefit from this type of massage since it increases the flow of breast milk.
6. Promotes Better Interaction with Baby: A good massage can create a peaceful and relaxed environment. It might help you bond better with your baby by making you feel more in tune with your body and its needs.
7. Encourages Bonding with Baby: A postnatal massage may also promote better bonding between you and your baby, especially if it’s performed by your partner.
8. Decreases the Risk of Postpartum Depression: Studies show that women who get regular massages during their pregnancies are less likely to suffer from depression after childbirth.
9. Low-Cost Treatment: Most health insurance providers cover the costs of massage therapy. If you’re interested in getting a postnatal massage, check with your provider for more information.
10. Provides Emotional Comfort: For many mothers, this type of therapy is not just physically beneficial but emotionally comforting too. Since postnatal sessions are usually performed by someone close to the mother, it can help her feel loved and supported.