BENEFITS OF BABY MASSAGE
Massage for a newborn baby is an age old tradition. It is the first procedure done soon after birth, that stimulates the respiration and first breath of the baby.
Are there any benefits of massaging the baby?
- Massage provides a medium for bonding between the newborn and the mother. This is an excellent way to build a close relationship with the baby.
- Massage helps with better weight gain in the baby
- Massaging is known to improve the baby’s immune system, which will protect against infections
- Stimulation of the motor system, which assists in movements of the body and limbs has been attributed to gentle body massage
- Stress reduction and a fell good sensation for the baby which further assists in the process of bonding.
- Infants have improved sleep and better digestion after massage
Are there any beneficial effects for the parents/ caregivers?
Xytocin in the baby’s body. While massaging the baby, there os release or the hormone called O
This is called the feel good hormone. The baby begins to enjoy the sensations, and the stimulus and gets into a happy mood. Research has shown that the parents pr caregivers who massage the baby, feel more calm and develop stronger bonds with their infants. They are emotionally closer to the baby. As the baby enjoys a good sleep after the massage, the parents and caregivers too are able to get some much needed rest.
When can I start massaging my baby?
-If you have had a normal delivery, you would be back home within 24 hours after delivery. Once your baby has settled down to the home environment, you can start the massage routine. This can be done as early as five days after delivery.
-In case of a Caeserean delivery, it is a good idea to wait for some time until the baby is stable and feeding well. This may take a few days or longer, depending on the condition of the newborn.
– In case of early massage , ensure that the umblical stump is avoided. Oil residues on this can increase the likelihood of infection there.
How often can I massage the baby?
Most often an oil massage is given before the baby is bathed. It is a good idea to try and maintain a specific time each day, during which the infant is massaged. It is a good practice to set up a routine early in the post natal period.
Sometimes, another round of massage can be given in the evening. This can help with improving the night time sleep. However, this is not compulsory, especially if the weather conditions are not conducive.
What kind of oil is used for the massage?
It is recommended to use an oil which is edible, unscented and hygienically prepared from a fruit or a vegetable. Good choices include coconut, olive , grape seed, corn or canola oil. These are easily absorbed by the skin and also easily digested in case the baby sucks the fingers after the massage.
Use a small amount of the oil, sufficient to dab it on the body. Try to avoid baby oil or other massage oils that are marketed, as they contain mineral oils which actually clog up the skin pores of the baby.
Is there any recommended methods for massage?
The best method is to follow your baby’s cues. Make sure that the baby enjoys the massage and does not turn away or become cranky.
Be gentle when you rub and do not apply too much pressure. It is recommended to maintain eye contact and speak softly to the baby during the massage. It is good to stroke downward on the baby’s body, with a little bit of pressure. Move horizontally to reach the tips of the baby’s body. Use circular movements on the abdomen, which is useful to stimulate the digestion.
Do you need to massage the head and face too?
The skin and muscles of the face and head also need to be stimulated with the massage. You must ensure that the head and neck is well supported before you start massaging the head and neck.
Avoid the open fontanelle or soft spot on the top of the head. Use your fingertips to gently trace small circles on the scalp, forehead and face. Gently stroke the eyebrows, nose, cheeks and jaws with gentle circular movements.
How to massage the arms and legs?
Gently hold the wrists with one hand and stroke downwards gently below the shoulder. Stroke the fingers until the finger tips using gentle pressure.
Use similar movements for the lower limbs , stroking inside and outside the baby’s legs. Make small circular movements around the ankles and gently stroke each toe until the tip. You can move the lower limbs in a cycling movement.
Create a perfect , relaxed massage session each day, which will be enjoyed by you as well as your baby. Choose a time when you are relaxed . This will be a calming experience for the baby also and will further strengthen the bonding between the mother and infant.