Khamis, 7 November 2013

Benefits of Postnatal Massage

3 Muhharam 1435

Postnatal massage gives many physical and mental benefits to help you get back in shape and become a great mom. Be aware that it's not just labour and birth that you're recovering from, but also 9 months of pregnancy. After delivery, you'll also have to face the reality of motherhood and caring for your little one, which comes with its own for your little one, which comes with its own set of challenges and pressures that can tax even the strongest women. Postnatal massage can be done 2 to 3 weeks after birth, after the mother has come home from the hospital. Women who've had a caesarean section would need to wait a little longer until after their scars have healed.

Benefits
Postnatal massage can help new mother cope with a wide range of issues after delivery. At the very least, it's a great way to relax. It's advisable to find a masseuse who is experienced in postnatal massage. Some of the benefits of postnatal massage are:
* Gets you well soon. It helps mothers to recover quicker from rigours and stresses of pregnancy and childbirth. If medications were used to assist the delivery, massage can help promote detoxification by increasing the flow of blood and oxygen to your muscles. If you've had a caesarean section, a massage can increase circulation and promote the internal healing process and smoothen out scars.
* Mood enhancer. Massage stimulates the body to release endorphins - a feel good chemical that helps to block pain, improve your mood and help overcome postnatal depression. It also helps nourish the body's nervous system to deal with the changes to the body during and after birth.
* Enhances the immune system. If you've been through a good massage session before, you know just how relaxed you can feel from the experience. Remedial maternity massage is a powerful relaxation technique that boosts your immune system by promoting lymph flow and helps keeps chronics stress at bay.
* Rebalances the body. Muscles that were tight or sore during pregnancy can be relieved by massage - making you feel fresh and helping your body get back to its pre-pregnancy posture. Any cramps and spasms can be reduced, while joints can regain some mobility.
* Helps to release oxytocins. Post delivery massage assist in stimulating the body to release oxytocins, the hormone that facilitates maternal bonding and breastfeeding. Also, massaging the breasts can help open up blocked ducts and relief hardened areas.
* Take a break, mama. Sometimes it feels great to just be pampered and have yourself looked after - easily overlooked when you're busy caring for your new child. A massage gives you a much needed break to rejuvenate your body and mind.

Precautions
A post pregnancy massage may not be suitable for you if you have any medical complications, a hernia or skin conditions such as blisters, rashes and eczema. For those suffering from high blood pressure, it's better to go for a lighter massage.
     If you deliver through caesarean section, hold off any massage until after your surgery scars have healed. To stay on the safe side, consider telling your masseuse to avoid the caesarean scars and abdomen area and to stick to the feet, head, arms and back.
     Some believe that having a post pregnancy massage too soon runs the risk of increasing postnatal bleeding. You should stop massages if you notice any increases in bleeding and consult your doctor. As always, speak to your doctor first on the right type of massage for you.




- Source from MamatoMama -