Pregnancy and Postpartum Massage
Postpartum Massage: Supporting Your Body After Birth
When I first became a massage therapist and started practicing in Bellingham, WA, I was intimidating by pregnancy massage and postpartum massage. For one there is a very specific bolstering protocol for maximize comfort and health of the baby/pregnant women, but there is also an entire second human that is affected! As my practice grew and I got more education and hands on experience with this clientele, I started to really appreciate pregnancy massage and especially postpartum massage.
What Is Postpartum Massage?
Postpartum massage is therapeutic bodywork designed specifically for the weeks and months following birth. Your body is navigating SO many changes, and so is your life outside of your body. You are now holding and feeding your infant while simultaneously recovering from growing and birthing it. Unlike prenatal massage, which supports the body during pregnancy, postpartum massage focuses on recovery by addressing muscle strain, fascial tension, fluid shifts, and nervous system regulation.
Whether you had a vaginal birth or a cesarean delivery, your body has done immense work. Postpartum massage meets you where you are, honoring both healing tissues and changing demands like feeding, carrying, and caring for your baby.
How the Body Changes After Birth
After delivery, the body begins a complex transition with rapid hormonal shifts, reorganization of the abdominal and pelvic organs and fascia and even the ribcage, recovering muscles that have been overstretched for a prolonged period of time, and of course, sleep deprivation and awkward caregiving postures. It’s common to experience neck and shoulder tension, low back discomfort, hip tightness, wrist and forearm strain, or a general sense of fatigue. Postpartum massage supports this transition by encouraging circulation, softening overworked tissues, and helping the nervous system settle. Visceral Manipulation specifically can help to relieve stressed tendons and ligaments around the organs and relieve spastic fascia. Abdominal massage is also very comforting at this time as your body readjusts to its “normal” position.
Benefits of Postpartum Massage
Postpartum massage may help:
Ease muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, back, and hips
Support circulation and reduce swelling
Encourage relaxation and nervous system regulation
Improve body awareness during recovery
Provide space for rest and grounding during a demanding time
Many clients also find that regular bodywork helps them feel more connected to their bodies again after pregnancy and birth.
What to Expect During a Postpartum Massage Session
Postpartum massage is always tailored to your needs. Sessions may include:
Extra bolstering for comfort
Side-lying or supported positioning
Gentle, therapeutic pressure
Attention to areas affected by feeding, carrying, and posture
A calm, unrushed environment
You’re welcome to communicate openly about comfort, pressure, and positioning at any point.
If you are curious if postpartum or pregnancy massage is right for you or if you have questions about it, feel free to contact me!