If you enjoyed a gentle massage during your pregnancy, especially to relieve pains and aches, there’s good news.
You can receive a specific type of massage postpartum as well!
A postpartum massage is the best full-body massage a new mother can get within 12 weeks after giving birth. Keep reading to learn about its benefits and how you should time it!
Benefits of Postpartum Therapeutic Massage in Richmond
A postpartum massage isn’t to be confused with a fundal massage that your medical provider might give to you immediately after birth. Fundal massage is done to prevent bleeding and “irritate” the uterus so it can contract and begin to heal. On the other hand, postpartum massage is performed much later after birth (12-16 weeks), and it’s mostly done to benefit the mother’s overall well-being.
Here are some benefits of the best massage therapy for postpartum bodies:
Reduced Swelling
Bodies swell during labor. Massage can help in redistribute water inside the body and encourage the circulation and drainage of excess fluids.
Better Milk Production
Massage therapy can be a great way to improve breast milk supply. It increases circulation and triggers the essential hormones needed to boost supply.
Hormone Regulation
Hormones are constantly fluctuating in a postpartum body. Physical touch can alleviate these fluctuations. Additionally, the essential oils involved in the massage can affect the mood as well, encouraging hormonal balance.
Reduced Depression and Anxiety
Many new mothers experience postpartum depression, or what’s colloquially known as the “baby blues”. Richmond massage therapy can help diminish the feelings of depression and anxiety by lowering stress levels.
Improved Sleep
New parents get very little sleep, so they need the rest whenever they can get it! Massage helps a postpartum body relax and prepare for restorative and deep sleep.
If you have questions about prenatal massage therapy, you can read this blog to know more.
When to Time Postpartum Massages
Whenever you feel ready, you can schedule postpartum massage therapy. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- If you have a complicated or C-section delivery, check with your doctor. Specific massage techniques might not be appropriate for your recovery.
- Some massage therapists refuse to work on people who have had surgery within 6 weeks ago. Talk to your massage therapist and doctor to ensure your safety, especially if you had a cesarean delivery.
- Avoid massage therapy if you have had blood clots before or during your pregnancy. Only receive massage therapy once you’re cleared by your doctor.
There is no precise timeline for how often you should get massage therapy after giving birth. Many new mothers enjoy weekly or bi-weekly massages during the first few months of postpartum. Some might only get a couple of massages during the postpartum period.
Human touch is powerful, and the benefits associated with it help women heal after labor. So, there are countless advantages of postpartum massage. Whenever you’re ready, you can schedule an appointment with Palais France Massage!
However you decide to approach massage therapy, it will surely add to your healing journey after giving birth! So, reach out to us now.