Postpartum Massage
MASSAGE SERVICES
Postpartum Massage Therapy
A postpartum massage is designed for new mothers who have recently given birth to help relieve pain and soreness and soothe and relax the body and the mind. In fact, postpartum massage has been used for thousands of years as a way to alleviate many symptoms brought on after childbirth, such as chronic tension and pain, fatigue, swelling, and stress. This service also promotes better sleep, improved circulation, and reduction of toxins and excess fluids in the body.
An Inner Rhythm’s postpartum massage is an excellent way to support not just the physical well-being of a new mother but also their emotional and mental bodies as well. We utilize techniques to unravel deeply-rooted muscular congestion, trigger points, and release of myofascial tissue for added benefits.
When to Get a Postpartum Massage After Delivery
You know your body better than anyone else! Therefore, when to get a postpartum massage, our best recommendation is to wait until you feel you are comfortable and ready. This is why Inner Rhythms offers in-home massage during the fourth trimester. An intentional and gentle massage will increase circulation to promote healing. Complete recovery after giving birth is typically between six to eight weeks, whether you have had a cesarean section or a vaginal delivery. If you have any doubt or worry speak with your health care provider before scheduling a postpartum massage.
Benefits of a Postpartum Massage
Many of our clients expressed interest in the reasons why a postpartum massage is so beneficial. We’ve put this list together to help answer some of your questions and provide more detail about this service’s benefits. A postpartum massage:
- Relieves pain/Improves Sleep: specifically body pains in the joints and muscles such as the lower back, abdomen, and hips. These are very common during and after pregnancy as your body has been put under a great deal of stress. A postpartum massage helps to ease fatigue, allows your body to relax for a more restful night’s sleep.
- Reduces Swelling / Improves Circulation: due to the fact the volume of blood in your body may increase up to 50% during pregnancy, a massage can help rebalance body fluids and improve circulation. This, in turn, will promote lymphatic drainage, which will speed up the elimination of fluids and toxins from your body. Blocked ducts are also common in the breast, and a gentle massage can lower the risk of mastitis.
- Improves Overall Recovery: not all benefits of a postpartum massage are physical. It is not uncommon for new mothers to experience postpartum depression or anxiety related to a sudden drop in hormones. Getting bodywork done regularly has been proven to help ease depression and anxiety and improve your overall mood.
Precautions for Postpartum Massage after Cesarean Section
While Inner Rhythms recommends a postpartum massage regimen regardless if you had a vaginal delivery or a cesarean section, there are some precautions to consider for clients who underwent a c-section.
- First and foremost, only work with a licensed massage therapist who specializes in postpartum massages. (Thankfully I’m one!!)
- We encourage in-home appointments to address any swelling, numbness, or difficulties getting comfortable. Most clients feel comfortable coming into the office about a month after giving birth. While we will not be working near the incision until it has full-healed (6-8 weeks) you can still get other areas massaged, such as the head, back, neck, arms, and legs safely.
- Try to avoid any activities that may put pressure on the abdominal area. If you do choose to get a massage, we have you lie sideline to get a back massage.
- Regardless of the type of childbirth you experienced, your massage therapist may ask you about breast tenderness, if you’re interested in learning about breast massage, herbal compresses or essential oil please let your therapist know! In addition, speak to your therapist about the use of oils and fragrances to make sure those are suitable for you during this important time of recovery.
Please contact Inner Rhythms in Monterey to learn more about our Postpartum massage therapy packages or Book Your First Session today!
Inner Rhythms is also proud to offer Doula services.
