Women’s health and wellness can be improved by massage therapy during pregnancy and after delivery. But the needs of an expecting mother and one that recently gave birth can be very different. That’s why prenatal massage and postnatal massage are considered two separate massage modalities.
Today we’ll be doing a deep dive into postnatal massage (also referred to as postpartum massage). We’ll discuss what makes them unique from our Signature massages and some common questions clients often ask about them.
What Is Postnatal Massage?
Becoming a mother is an extremely rewarding experience, but it can also involve a lot of physical and emotional stress. Postnatal massage is designed to address the specific needs and challenges of new mothers.
It’s known for providing many benefits, some of which include relieving muscle soreness, improving circulation, increasing joint mobility, and decreasing the risk of postpartum depression. But what exactly makes it different from one of our Signature massages?
Postpartum massage may include some of the same elements of regular massages, such as light or deep pressure, soothing strokes, and aromatherapy. But it can differ in the following ways:
- Full Body: Unlike traditional massage where the massage therapist may only focus on one area of the body, postnatal massage is a full-body massage. This helps to increase blood flow and circulation all throughout the body.
- Positioning: Depending on your comfort level and stage of recovery, you may lie on your back, side, or stomach during a postnatal massage. If you have had a cesarean delivery, you may need to avoid lying on your stomach until your incision heals. Your massage therapist will use pillows, cushions, or bolsters to support your body and make you comfortable.
- Abdominal Massage: Postnatal massage may include gentle abdominal massage to help the uterus contract back to its normal size. Abdominal massage can also help with digestion, constipation, and scar tissue healing if you have had a cesarean delivery.
- Cushioning: Clients can opt for extra support with our massage cushion. This allows for comfortable face-down positioning, which can support deeper breathing and increased lung function.
When Can I Get a Massage After Giving Birth?
When clients ask us, “When can I get a massage after giving birth?” we like to help them assess their unique situation and the different factors at hand:
- Were there any complications during the pregnancy?
- Are there any current complications after delivery?
- Have you consulted with your doctor about postpartum care and recovery?
While our clients typically schedule appointments with us 4-8 weeks after delivery, women can get postpartum massages right after delivery if they’re feeling up to it. You can determine whether postpartum massage is right for you after considering the questions above and other aspects of your health.
Scheduling a Postpartum Massage Near Me
If you find yourself searching for “postpartum massage near me”, we’ve got you covered – look no further than Vinings Massage & Wellness! We have several massage therapists on our team that are trained in postnatal massage.
A postnatal massage is more than just a pampering treat. It’s a way to support your health and well-being as a new mother. Whether you need to relieve pain, improve circulation, increase mobility, or support your emotional health, a postpartum massage can help you feel better and enjoy this precious time with your baby.
If you have any doubts about whether a postpartum massage is suitable for you, we recommend consulting your doctor ahead of time. If you determine it’s right for you, book a session with our team today!*
*Please note: if you’d like to schedule an appointment for a postnatal/postpartum massage, please select “Postnatal Massage” in our booking engine.
