Welcoming a new life into the world is a transformative experience for any mother. In the whirlwind of caring for a newborn, self-care often takes a backseat. However, embracing postpartum massage after delivery can be a game-changer, promoting physical recovery and emotional well-being.
What is Postpartum Massage
Postpartum massage involves specialised techniques tailored to address the physical and emotional changes a woman undergoes after childbirth.
Importance of Massage after Delivery
Beyond relaxation, postpartum massage plays a crucial role in promoting healing, reducing muscle tension and supporting emotional balance during this delicate period.
Benefits of Massage
Navigating the challenges of the postpartum period becomes more manageable with the myriad benefits of postnatal massage.
Physical Benefits
- Alleviates muscle soreness and tension.
- Enhances blood circulation, aiding in quicker healing.
- Assists in the reduction of postpartum swelling.
Emotional Benefits
- Eases symptoms of postnatal depression and anxiety.
- Fosters a sense of relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Promotes better sleep quality.
Hormonal Regulation
Massage contributes to hormonal balance, influencing the release of oxytocin, commonly known as the “love hormone”, which contributes to a stronger emotional connection between the mother and the baby.
Postpartum Massage Techniques
Myofascial Massage:
-
-
Objective: Myofascial massage focuses on releasing tension in the muscles and fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles. This helps alleviate pain and discomfort caused by the stresses of pregnancy and poor posture during breastfeeding.
-
Technique: Sustained pressure or firm strokes are applied to tight muscles to release tension and restore muscle suppleness. The pressure is usually medium to deep and accompanied by “good pain”.
-
Uterine Massage:
-
-
Objective: Uterine massage can help return the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size and reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
-
Technique: Gentle to medium pressure direct on the uterus to promote uterine contraction and facilitate discharge of lochia.
-
Breast Massage:
-
-
Objective: Breast massage can help relieve engorgement, improve milk flow, and reduce the risk of mastitis. It also aids in maintaining breast health.
-
Technique: Gentle, circular motions on the milk ducts will encourage lactation. Light strokes to drain the lymphatic fluid from the breasts towards the armpits will reduce swelling. Warm compression can also be applied to relieve engorgement and promote milk flow.
-
Slimming Massage:
-
-
Objective: Edema or water retention is a common postpartum concern. Massage improves circulation and reduces fluid build-up.
-
Technique: Lymphatic-drainage massage incorporates gentle, rhythmic strokes toward the lymph nodes to remove excess fluid. This can be complemented with petrissage massage techniques, such as wringing, kneading and skin-folding.
-
Diastasis Recti Massage:
-
-
Objective: Diastasis recti is the separation of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy. Massage can help in the healing process by releasing abdominal muscle knots and re-activating the core.
-
Technique: Gentle and targeted massage around the abdominal area helps the muscles to realign.
-
Scar-Tissue Massage
-
-
Objective: After childbirth, especially in the case of a C-section or episiotomy, scar tissue can form. Scar-tissue massage after postpartum C-section delivery promotes breaking down adhesions, improves flexibility, and reduces discomfort associated with scar tissue.
- Technique: Various techniques ranging from gentle, circular motions performed directly on the scar, to stretching or pulling along both sides of the scar. This enhances blood flow, promote tissue healing, and prevent the formation of overly dense or restrictive scar tissue. Usually performed after six weeks of delivery, starting with light pressure.
-
When to Start Postpartum Massage
1. Timing Considerations
While every woman’s postpartum journey is unique, generally postpartum massage can commence a week day after a vaginal birth and six weeks after a C-section. However, in the case of a C-section, massage can begin as early as four weeks after delivery so long as the abdominal area is avoided and the mother can get into comfortable positions for massage.
2. Medical Clearance
It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting postpartum massage, ensuring there are no contraindications based on individual health conditions. Furthermore, any discomfort or unusual sensations during or after a massage should be promptly communicated to the massage therapist or healthcare provider.
Engaging A Postnatal Massage Therapist
1. Choose a Qualified Massage Therapist
A certified and experienced massage therapist ensures the application of safe and effective techniques. It is best to engage the services of a postnatal massage therapist way before your expected date of delivery, during the prenatal stage, to build familiarity and trust, and communicate expectations.
Postnatal massage takes many forms, and it is important to find one that fits your needs and preferences. In Singapore and the Southeast Asian region, the traditional Javanese postnatal massage is anchored at one end of the traditional-to-modern spectrum, while at the other end is evidence-based postnatal massage. This article expounds some of the differences between the two.
-
Opt for A Postpartum Massage Package
A single postnatal massage session can be very costly. This is to be expected, as the price would have to factor in travel time and transport to your home. A fully equipped doorstep service, like the one provided by Aleyda Mobile Spa, would also include treatment table, linen and spa music for a more exclusive, luxurious experience.
That’s where postpartum massage packages come in. A bundle of seven or 10 sessions would be more attractively priced, and sessions can be spread over the seven-week puerperium to facilitate postpartum recovery. It is a worthwhile investment for a happier, healthier mommy!
We do, however, recommend purchasing packages from a trusted company as it provides the added assurance of financial reliability. Established companies are more likely to have transparent payment processes, clear refund policies, and a reputation to uphold, reducing the risk of unscrupulous behaviour. This reliability ensures that your investment in postnatal massage is secure, offering peace of mind that you won’t encounter financial uncertainties that might arise when dealing with individual massage therapists.
3. Setting the Mood at Home
Creating a serene and comfortable environment at home enhances the effectiveness of postpartum self-massage. To do so, ensure that your newborn is left under the care of a trusted caregiver throughout the duration of your massage session. Also try to time your massage soon after a feeding session or after emptying your breasts, to minimise letting down during massage. If your massage provider does not offer music, have your own playlist on hand so you can immerse yourself into a world of relaxation.
Embracing postpartum massage is not just a luxury; it’s a holistic approach to postpartum well-being. By addressing physical recovery, emotional balance, and overall relaxation, postpartum massage becomes a cornerstone in the journey to a healthy and fulfilling postpartum experience.
Step into a realm of relaxation with Aleyda Mobile Spa! Our skilled postpartum massage therapists bring luxurious postnatal massage to your door. Just hit the WhatsApp icon and chat with us. Your serene escape is a message (and massage!) away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely, but it’s essential to wait for medical clearance and choose a massage therapist experienced in post-C-section care.
Yes, but opt for hypoallergenic and baby-safe oils, ensuring minimal risk for the infant.
Frequency depends on individual needs, but a weekly session in the initial postpartum weeks is beneficial.
Yes, side-lying or semi-reclining positions are common to ensure comfort and safety.
Yes, the relaxation and hormonal balance achieved through massage can contribute to managing postpartum depression.
Mild soreness is normal, but communicate any concerns with the massage therapist for adjustments.
