November 27, 2007
Aromatherapy Massage During Childbirth
Even though many women appreciate being massaged by their partner during labor, others prefer not to be touched. The way a woman will feel during labor is almost impossible to predict, especially if it is her first baby. Chances are that your partner will be only too pleased to receive your loving touch at this special time.
Being the final stage of pregnancy, essential oils can be added to the vegetable base oil if you wish. Lavender, chamomile (German or Roman), marjoram or clary sage can be massaged into the sacral area to reduce pain. Using the flat of your hand, make slow rhythmic circles all over the lower back. Although some women find that light stroking given during a contraction takes the edge off the pain, others prefer to be soothed and comforted with firmer strokes in between contractions. Some women find massage helpful at any stage of labor.
The same aromatic oil can be massaged into the abdomen using very light, circular strokes moving in a clockwise direction. However, most women appreciate this stroke in between contractions. Others find that very light fingertip stroking downwards over the lower abdomen and upper thighs helps to buffer the pain during a contraction.
Some women experience shaking legs at the end of the first stage of labor, and also immediately after giving birth. This can be helped by stroking the thighs from the upper part to the knee and back again. Press firmly down the leg, and lightly as you move upwards. Always keep your movements flowing and rhythmic.
It is important that your partner makes her likes and dislikes known to you, so do encourage her to ask for what she wants, for this is the surest way to discover how best to help.
Massage After The Birth
Gentle massage to the shoulders, neck, face and scalp can help alleviate the depression that commonly follows childbirth. Vaporise your partner's favourite essential oils into the room and apply a low concentration of essences suitable for her skin type. It is through caring and nurturing that she will begin to regain her equilibrium.
To help stimulate a good flow of milk, it is important to breastfeed your baby as soon as possible after birth. It is the instinctive sucking reflex of the baby that causes the milk to flow, as well as helping the uterus return to its normal size. Breast massage, in conjunction with adequate rest, nourishing food and copious amounts of bottled water, will help to promote the supply for as long as you wish to continue breastfeeding. Massage will also greatly reduce the likelihood of problems such as mastitis (inflammation and infection of the milk ducts) and the development of a breast abscess.
Massage your breasts once or twice a day throughout the nursing period. Cupping the breast with one hand, and massaging with the other, apply a light base oil such as almond or sunflower seed. Then begin stroking very gently with your thumb or fingertips from the periphery down to the edge of the areola. Before feeding your baby, however, it is important to remove any oil that may have seeped on to the nipples.
