Postpartum massage
Postpartum massage can be just
as important and beneficial as massage during pregnancy. Postpartum bodywork is
an effective and holistic approach to the many adjustments to motherhood. You
may be surprised to get so much more than a spa holiday.
Massage is well known for its
relaxation, stress reduction, pain relief, and other health benefits. Unique
postpartum benefits include hormonal regulation, reduced swelling, better
sleep, and improved breastfeeding. More advanced therapy helps restore your
body to its pre-pregnancy state, speeds up healing, and promotes recovery after
a caesarean section.
Find a massage therapist
certified in prenatal and perinatal massage therapy.
Benefits of postpartum massage
Postpartum massage has been
proven to be effective for faster recovery and better health. Incorporating
mother body work can add value to your path to healing and transition to
motherhood.
Relaxation and stress reduction
Massage relaxes muscles, improves
blood circulation and lowers stress hormones, providing relaxation and stress
relief. All body systems are enjoying healing after nine months of change,
culminating in the realization of life's greatest miracle.
Some women prefer a lighter
massage, while others prefer deeper techniques to remove knots. With the
addition of myofascial release and craniosacral therapy, deeper penetration
into the body occurs for more complete healing. Each of these massage styles
will provide relaxation and stress relief.
Anxiety and depression respond
very well to qualified therapy. About two thirds of new mothers experience
temporary postpartum blues associated with hormonal changes, new
responsibilities and dissatisfaction. Emotional support and other benefits of
massage can help during this transition.
Postpartum depression is a
more serious and long-term condition affecting 10-15% of mothers. Research
shows that massage is helpful for treating postpartum depression. Feel free to
seek help from doctors, including a postpartum health worker.
Pain relief
Residual pain in the body
after pregnancy is normal. The addition of breastfeeding and childcare can
increase pain in the arms, shoulders, and back. Massage is an effective
holistic approach that relaxes muscles and relieves pain without medication. A
qualified therapist can also eliminate even the associated numbness and
tingling. Multiple sessions may be required to address chronic or severe pain.
Hormonal regulation
Massage significantly improves
postpartum hormonal levels. Estrogen and progesterone levels are very high
during pregnancy and decrease after childbirth. Levels of the hormones
prolactin and oxytocin rise to make breastfeeding easier. Studies show that
massage reduces levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Certain essential oils
can also lead to hormonal and mood balance.
Massage also reduces natural
biochemicals associated with depression (dopamine and serotonin) and
cardiovascular problems (norepinephrine), helping mom cope with the challenges
of motherhood.
Swelling reduction
Body fluids should come back
into balance after pregnancy, during which the fluid volume has increased by
about 50%. Massage increases blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, which
helps to remove excess fluid and waste. Tissue stimulation helps your body move
water to the right places.
Puffiness is also affected by
hormones that undergo major changes after childbirth. Massage helps with
hormonal regulation, which also reduces swelling. Continue to drink plenty of
fluids for treatment and lactation, even if you still have swelling.
Best sleep
Most new mothers feel
exhausted after childbirth, which is complicated by round-the-clock child care.
Massage relieves fatigue, promotes relaxation and helps to fall asleep. Studies
have shown an increase in delta brain waves with massage therapy.
That is why it is very common
to fall asleep during a massage. Getting enough sleep is key to postpartum
recovery. Everything improves when you feel rested! Ask for help and massage
regularly to help you relax and sleep better. Study correlates better sleep
with baby belly fat loss!
Improving breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a great gift
for a newborn, but it can be a challenge for some moms. Massage therapy relaxes
the body, improves blood circulation and increases milk production. Studies
show that massage increases levels of prolactin, the lactation hormone.
Relaxation of the pectoral muscles opens the shoulders and improves lactation.
New research shows that breast massage helps relieve breast pain, lowers the
sodium content of breast milk, and improves suckling in newborns. Check with
your physician about this service, as working directly on the breast may be
illegal in some areas.
When can a new mother start postpartum massage?
You can start getting postpartum
massage as soon as you feel comfortable. Your therapists will put you in a
comfortable position if you have stomach or chest pain. If you have maternal
complications, check with your doctor first.
What positions are safe in postpartum massage?
All positions are safe after
childbirth, but can be adjusted for your comfort or specific treatment. Some
moms dream of lying face down after lying on their side for nearly nine months.
Others may find it uncomfortable to lie face down due to chest discomfort or
distraction from leaking milk. The side lying position can be comfortable and
very effective in treating specific shoulder, pelvic, or leg problems.
Can I bring my child to an appointment?
Many mothers want to leave
their baby in good hands and take a break. However, some mothers prefer to take
their newborns with them. Ask your therapist if newborns are welcome. Some
therapists take care of the little visitor. Newborns usually sleep a lot, and
an experienced therapist will adapt the regimen to the child if necessary. If
you are bringing a small one with you, additional time may be required, so get
permission in advance.
Aromatherapy during postpartum massage
A holistic treatment with
aromatherapy can be an effective therapy for postpartum moms. Essential oils
are pure plant extracts and can help with relaxation, hormonal balance,
cleansing, and treating anxiety or depression. Most high quality oils are safe
and won't cause allergies after pregnancy, but let your therapist know if
you're breastfeeding. Most aromatherapy products can be diffused into the air,
added to lotion, or applied topically. Ask about the therapist's experience in
this area and if there is an additional charge.
Include postpartum massage in your post-pregnancy care
Massage can improve postpartum recovery and the health of many women. Supplement your doctor's instructions and advice with massage to support your transition to a new mothering role. A qualified therapist will provide physical, emotional and educational support as you rediscover the joys of motherhood. Consult your doctor if you experience any complications or have any concerns before starting any new therapeutic practice.