Massage is an incredibly powerful tool for body relaxation, healing and recovery in general but especially in the postnatal period.
During prenancy hormones cause muscles to relax and ligaments to loosen, particularly in the pelvis, creating flexibility to accomodate growing and birthing a new baby. The extra weight of carrying a baby through pregnancy combined with the relaxing hormones can lead to discomfort and in some cases muscle strain or injury.
Postnatal recovery massage is a body massage and wrapping techniques developed in the UK by an Osetopath and postnatal doula, drawing on traditional postnatal support techniques from all over the world and taking the biomechanics of pregnancy and birthing into account.
It is a gentle touch technique which is a real partnership between therapist and recipient.
It's important to discuss your health and any contraindications with your chosen therapist. For example people who experienced pregnancy induced hypertension or preeclampsia need to share that information with their therapist so massage is the safest and most appropriate for that recipient. Other health conditions, both pregnancy related and non pregnancy related, may have an impact on the course of any postnatal recovery massage, details can be shared with any therapist in order to make the best treatment plan for each recipient.
Generally speaking massages can begin once the birthing person returns home from hospital or within 3 to 5 days of birth in cases of home birth.
In the event of an abdominal or cesarean birth, massages can only be commenced once the wound has begun healing, is free of stitches or staples and is clean and dry. Often this takes between 10 and 14 days.
Why should I consider a postnatal recovery massage, or course of massages?
Benefits of postnatal recovery massage include: - Supporting the uterus to return to it's pre-pregnancy size, shape and position - Supporting the lymphatic system to manage swelling and water retention
- Supporting breastfeeding by stimulating breast tissue and reducing the risk of blocked ducts
- Supporting core strength and posture recovery
- Stimulting oxytocin production and reduce stress - Reducing the impact of postnatal anxiety and depression - Reducing pain and muscle fatigue Is there anything else I should know about postnatal recovery massage? Postnatal recovery massage is suitable for anyone who has ever been pregnant, regardless of how long ago or how recently.
Postnatal massage can be performed in your own home, to offer the opportunity to go straight to bed afterwards and make the most of the relaxation. Alternatively you can visit a therapist in their treatment space (with or without your babe in arms) offering the opportunity to focus completely on yourself and your baby without thinking about the washing up or laundry.
If your pregnancy ended with the loss of your baby or babies you are very welcome to book a postnatal recovery massage to support your recovery and wellbeing. Your grief and your memories are welcome here. We can honour your child (or children) together.
Gift vouchers are available if you'd like to gift a massage to a new family you know.
At Healthy Opportunities perinatal one postnatal recovery massage lasts approximately 2 hours and costs £75, a package of 3 postnatal recovery massages costs £200.
Other practitioners can be found via www.closingthebonesmassage.com
If you have any questions or queries about postnatal recovery massage please don't hesitate to get in touch