POSTPARTUM MASSAGE
60 MINS - $130
90 MINS - $160
Postnatal massage is designed to help a new mother recover from birth and pregnancy by helping to relax muscles and tendons that have been in ‘overdrive’ during pregnancy. Regular postnatal massage can help to reduce the likelihood of getting mastitis and increase breast milk production by producing the oxytocin hormone.
Benefits of a postnatal massage include:
Muscle relaxation - postnatal massage relaxes muscles, increases circulation, and lowers stress hormones, bringing both physical and emotional relief. Some women prefer a light-touch massage, while others opt for a deeper massage that reaches further into the muscles and soft tissues of the body for more complete healing.
Pain relief - it's normal to experience achy muscles after childbirth. A postnatal massage can help relieve pain, especially in areas that are prone to getting sore like the arms, shoulders, and back. Massaging the chest area also opens up the shoulders and relieves breast pain.
Decreased swelling - during pregnancy body fluids typically increase by about 50%. After pregnancy, a postnatal massage can help increase circulation and lymphatic drainage so that the body can effectively process excess fluid and restore balance.
Hormone regulation - hormones like estrogen increase at a significant level during pregnancy and then decrease after delivery. Postnatal massage can help balance your hormones, as well as your mood. Massage can work to balance naturally occurring chemicals that are linked to depression, including dopamine and serotonin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I get a massage after the baby is born?
If it was a healthy pregnancy and delivery without any major complications, a massage can safely be given as soon as you feel ready. However, if you have a caesarean section you will usually need to wait at least 6 weeks for the scar tissue to heal.
What position will I be in during a postnatal massage?
Positioning is dependent on which stage in the postnatal stage you are in and which type of birth you experienced. Most positions are safe after delivery but may be adjusted for your comfort. You may be side-lying (if your abdomen or breasts are sore) or you may feel more comfortable lying face down.
Are there any circumstances when postnatal massage is not advisable?
There are some instances when massage may not be appropriate. We recommend speaking to your doctor before booking a session if you have any concerns.
How is postnatal massage different from remedial massage?
The techniques and assessment are the same; they are goal-oriented and about getting the best results. The difference is in the knowledge we have with the recovery of birth, sleep deprivation, and feeding demands.
We ask the right questions, help with correcting posture and treat the areas of need to make it easier to get through your week. We can also help with advice on how to reduce the occurrence of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) that can be caused from how parents pick up and hold their baby.
What clothing do I wear for the massage?
Postnatal massage can be performed with as much or as little clothing as you’re comfortable wearing – it’s always a personal decision. Usually, we recommend that you keep underwear on, and we use towels for coverage so only the parts that are being massaged are exposed.