Nurturing Your Body: Postpartum Care Through Massage and More
As I’m approaching the tail end of my second pregnancy right now, I’m starting to think a lot about the upcoming postpartum period and all of the clients we support who are in that wild phase of life right now. Bringing a new life into the world is a miraculous experience, but it also comes with a wide array of challenges. As a new parent, your body undergoes significant changes during and after childbirth, requiring special attention and care. And you never know what unique challenges you might face during this time so having a plan for support and care physically, emotionally, and practically is so important. At Red Moon we offer postpartum care including massage therapy, acupuncture, clinical herbalism, and nutritional, lactation and wellness consultations and we also have an excellent referral network for a wide variety of health care practitioners including mental health, doctors, physical therapists, postpartum meal prep, postpartum doulas, and more. We are here to help offer a holistic approach to support your body's recovery and overall well-being during this transformative time.
As I approach this phase for the second time, I thought I’d share a quick overview of a handful of postpartum concerns that we can help address.
Addressing Diastasis Recti and Back Pain
Diastasis recti is a common condition that occurs when the abdominal muscles (rectus abdominis) separate during pregnancy. These muscles, which run vertically on either side of the belly button, can stretch and separate due to the pressure from the growing uterus. This separation can lead to a visible bulge or ridge in the midsection, along with symptoms such as lower back pain, poor posture, and pelvic floor issues. While diastasis recti is a natural part of pregnancy, we can provide referrals and assist with addressing muscular imbalances caused by diastasis while you engage in exercises or physical therapy to correct it.
Realignment in the Pelvis
During the first few months postpartum, your body gradually adjusts as the effects of relaxin, a hormone that loosens ligaments during pregnancy, recede. Postpartum massage can aid in realigning the pelvis, promoting optimal functional movement, and alleviating pain and discomfort.
Abdominal Support and Circulation
Abdominal massage has been practiced in various cultures for centuries, with roots in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and indigenous healing practices throughout the world. Abdominal massage can help enhance circulation to abdominal organs and connective tissues as they readjust after childbirth. This gentle therapy supports your body's natural healing process and promotes comfort and alignment.
Lymphatic Drainage and Breast Health
In the initial weeks postpartum, lymphatic drainage massage can effectively reduce swelling in the extremities, especially beneficial following procedures like cesarean birth or the administration of IV fluids or pitocin which can all cause fluid retention or edema. Breast/chest massage can also provide relief from engorgement and edema in the breasts and address lactation concerns.
Treating “Mother’s Thumb”
During a postpartum massage session, LMTs can address orthopedic concerns such as "mother's thumb" (de Quervain's tenosynovitis), a common type of tendonitis resulting from overuse strain at the thumb during repetitive actions like holding and feeding the baby. Our approach involves enhancing body awareness, educating clients on proper wrist mechanics while caring for the baby, and utilizing massage techniques like lymphatic drainage and cross fiber friction along the tendons to expedite healing. Additionally, we offer self-care recommendations such as epsom salt hand soaks and heat packs to further support recovery.
Supporting Emotional Well-being
Postpartum mood changes, including symptoms of anxiety and depression, are common experiences for new parents. Massage can complement mental health resources by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression and alleviating somatic (bodily) manifestations of these conditions.
Nutrition and Community Support
Proper nutrition is vital for postpartum recovery, emphasizing warming, nutrient-dense foods and additional calories for lactating parents. Additionally, community support plays a crucial role in navigating the joys and challenges of parenthood. We recommend resources like Park Slope Parents and Brooklyn Flow for connections, support groups, and developmental classes.
A postpartum massage session can address many concerns during this vulnerable period in your life. Incorporating postpartum massage into your wellness routine can nurture your body and spirit during this special time. Together with other supportive practices, it helps you embark on your journey of parenthood with strength, resilience, and joy.
