Postpartum massage can help with a wide variety of postpartum concerns. It can improve circulation, redistribute fluids, and “remodel” tissue. It can also help with the appearance of stretch marks. While the marks will not disappear completely, massage can minimize their appearance and make skin more supple.
Postpartum Massage at Home
Postpartum massage has many benefits, from promoting hormonal balance to easing stress. It can also be helpful to women who have recently suffered a miscarriage or stillbirth. Depending on the type of massage you choose, it may also help you relax and fall asleep more easily.
The best time to begin a postpartum massage is a few days after giving birth. If you’ve undergone a C-section, wait for at least two weeks before scheduling a postpartum massage, and always consult a doctor. Once your baby is born, your mid and lower-back are put under extra strain.
Massage can help relieve this strain by releasing pressure from your pelvic joints, other ligaments, and muscles. If you’re feeling stressed or sluggish after birth, a postpartum massage can make you feel great and ready to take care of yourself and your baby.
For men, you may want to massage your wife and restore your tummy’s shape after pregnancy. Men might be reluctant to show off their postpartum bodies in public, but they want their wives to maintain a nice figure. You can give her a massage as a way to say thank you to the mother of their children.
Fundal Postpartum Massage
While fundal postpartum massage is a common form of postpartum care, it is not for everyone. Many women feel that it is painful and unnecessary. Regardless of the type of massage, it should be avoided if possible. A fundal massage is often painful and unnecessary for many women, and most women don’t remember it after delivery.
Fundal postpartum massage can effectively reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, but there are some risks associated with this massage. The first and most obvious risk is that it can lead to excessive bleeding. The pains that occur during fundal massage aren’t nearly as severe as labor contractions, but they’re still uncomfortable. The massage will be given every few minutes after birth and checked by a nurse to see if the patient is bleeding. The fundal massage is also very effective in helping the uterus expel blood and clots.
During a fundal postpartum massage, the health care provider will locate the top of the placenta, also called the fundus. This is usually beneath the belly button. The nurse will then press down on the abdomen to apply pressure to the fundus. Although the pressure can be uncomfortable, the massage helps reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
Postpartum Massage in NYC
Postpartum massage is a great way to start the healing process after childbirth. It’s especially helpful for new mothers regaining their strength after giving birth to a child. It can also aid in the recovery of women who’ve experienced miscarriage or stillbirth.
If you’re looking for a massage in NYC that’s customized to your specific needs, consider visiting Anne Heckheimer. She’s a certified personal trainer and licensed massage therapist. Her New York City clinic meets strict COVID-19 safety guidelines and requires clients to wear a mask and drink lots of water.
A postpartum massage can help women reduce stress after childbirth and improve their mood. It helps regulate hormones, including estrogen and cortisol, which can affect mood. It can also help women produce more serotonin and dopamine. Generally, postpartum massage is safe for new moms, though it’s still important to consult a healthcare provider before a session.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of postpartum massage?
Postpartum massage can help new mothers alleviate muscle tension, reduce stress hormones, improve circulation, support emotional well-being, and assist with the physical adjustments of postpartum recovery. It may also aid in better sleep and help with postnatal recovery.
How can I choose a qualified postpartum massage therapist?
When choosing a postpartum massage therapist, look for someone with specialized training and experience in postnatal massage. Verify their certifications, read reviews from other clients, and ensure they explain how they accommodate the specific needs of postpartum bodies.
Are there any precautions I should take before getting a postpartum massage?
Yes, some precautions include waiting until your doctor approves postpartum massage, especially if you had complications during delivery. Inform your therapist about any health concerns, avoid massage on swollen areas or where you received an epidural, and ensure the massage doesn’t interfere with breastfeeding schedules.
How soon after delivery can I start postpartum massage?
The appropriate time to start postpartum massage varies for each individual and delivery type. For uncomplicated vaginal deliveries, some mothers start within a few days, but for those who had a C-section or complications, it’s important to wait for your doctor’s clearance, which might be several weeks.
What can I expect during a postpartum massage for C-section recovery?
Postpartum massage for C-section recovery typically involves gentle techniques to avoid the incision area until it’s sufficiently healed. The therapist may focus on reducing scar tissue formation, promoting internal healing, and providing relaxation to ease the tension in other parts of the body affected by surgery.
Can postpartum massage help with emotional well-being?
Absolutely. Postpartum massage can provide emotional support through nurturing touch, which may help in reducing anxiety and postpartum depression symptoms. The relaxing effects can also improve mood and provide a sense of well-being.
Is postpartum massage safe for everyone?
While postpartum massage is safe for most new mothers, it’s not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis. Mothers with high blood pressure, infections, or other health issues should seek medical advice before scheduling a massage.