Massage and Me - Guide to Massage during Labour by massageandme.co.uk

M A S S A G E

M E

P R E S E N T S

Massage for Labour YOUR

LABOUR

MASSAGE

EBOOK

Hello also to all the wonderful birthing partners; the unsung heroes who can be such a great support during labour. I hear you and you are all included in this eBook too. I wanted to write this eBook to show you how easy it can be to use massage in labour. Not only are there numerous benefits (more on those shortly) but massage is also such a soothing, healthy, safe and free activity to practise together with your birthing partner in the days leading up to giving birth. Through massage, while preparing your body to labour, we’re also preparing your mind. In addition to covering the benefits of massage during labour, we will talk about how to involve the birthing partner, run through some different labour positions, give you both a helpful step-by-step guide on how to practise the massage strokes and will even point out the different massage oils that are safe to use in pregnancy and labour. Giving birth is a beautiful unknown that many of us fear. Even if this eBook makes you feel a little more prepared and in control then I think we’ve achieved something. Take care wonderful mamas-to-be, and I hope you enjoy this eBook.

Jo x

!emocleW

Hello, wonderful women. Thanks so much for downloading this eBook, and congratulations on your pregnancy! I hope you’ve been feeling well and aren’t too exhausted by this stage.

"FOR ME, MASSAGE STARTED MY LABOUR OFF ON THE RIGHT NOTE AND GOT MY MIND AND BODY IN THE RIGHT SPACE FOR WHAT WAS TO COME." Rupa, Essex

You can find more client testimonials at the end of this eBook.

About Jo.

My labour, massage and me

JO MURCH MASSAGE THERAPIST, REFLEXOLOGIST (MAR), MUM

I’m Jo and I am a Massage Therapist, a Reflexologist and a Mum. I started my little business- Massage and Me- in 2016 after giving up the busy life of an Event Manager in London. Since qualifying from the London School of Massage, I’ve gone on to train in Deep Tissue Massage, Pre/Post Natal Massage and more recently in Reflexology and Pre/Post Natal Reflexology. I have completed all my training at London School of Massage, Gateway Workshops and London School of Reflexology. I completed my training in Pre/Post Natal Massage shortly before falling pregnant and it was amazing to share that experience alongside some of my clients. I really love seeing my clients from the start of their second trimesters, through to the stage of giving birth and then helping them in their recovery. I never assume I will know how each of my clients is feeling; they all experience such different aches, challenges, joys and emotions and I have learnt so much from them all. I am very fortunate to have such a varied and rewarding job.

When I gave birth to my son Theo in 2017, there were times during my labour when I didn’t want my husband (or anyone!) near me. I was in my zone and my body seemed to know what it needed to do.

Without a doubt, massage during labour not only helped and soothed me, it also involved my husband and gave him a purpose, helping him to feel useful. It helped us feel connected at a time when it can be so easy to feel worlds apart.

There were times when he would try to massage me and I would nudge him away, but there were other times when I needed him near, needed his comfort and found him such a support. This book will teach you that this is perfectly normal and that together you can find what is right for you both. You will feel equipped with the techniques you need, should you feel you want to use them.

I’m not a fan of preaching to people, and I am a big advocate for you to have the birthing experience you feel is right for you and your Baby. I hope this eBook acts as helpful guidance rather than adding yet more pressure. You’ll find my contact details at the back of this eBook if you would like to ask me anything.

My labour was not exactly how I had envisaged it. I was induced 13 days over my due date, with horror stories of induction (not so helpfully passed on by strangers in the street) filling my mind.

In the meantime, I really hope you enjoy reading this eBook and that it helps you and your birthing partner to feel connected and empowered before meeting your baby.

While I would not consider giving birth a ‘breeze’, I really do look back on it positively, despite the obvious pain. I was so grateful it was not the Hollywood scream-fest I had dreaded.

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1. The Benefits of Massage During Labour

1. The

Benefits

During

Labour

Massage

We all know that massage can help us feel relaxed but it’s amazing to understand how and why we feel this way. By decreasing our levels of cortisol (stress hormone), massage reduces our body’s sense of ‘fight or flight’ and encourages a relaxation response in our brain. During labour, this is more important than ever.

REDUCING PAIN During labour, light massage can help like a natural TENS machine. Receptors in our skin detect the touch of massage and focus on the pressure exerted, which can help to block out some of the pain experienced during contractions.

MINIMISING ADRENALINE Endorphins, the ‘feel good hormone’, are released during massage, which in turn can help minimise the production of adrenaline. In labour we particularly want to reduce the level of adrenaline in our bodies as it speeds up our heart rate and raises our blood pressure. If the levels of adrenaline increase too much, this can lead to stress and exhaustion which we obviously want to avoid while giving birth.

RELAXING MUSCLES It is tempting to tense up during labour. Massage can help counter this by warming up and relaxing the muscles that are working hard during contractions, such as the sacral muscles. This will help those of us who are in labour for a long time.

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1. The

Benefits

During

Labour

Massage

CONNECTING As mentioned in Chapter Two, labour massage can also be extremely powerful in giving the Birthing Partner a purpose and creating a positive connection during the birth. We can also create this connection with c-section deliveries (more on this on page 26).

BALANCING HORMONES Labour massage can also encourage the production of oxytocin, which is much-needed during labour. This helps to progress the birth, then release the placenta and also encourage those strong and loving feelings of bonding between Mum and Baby once the baby arrives. It can also help to release prolactin, which prepares Mum’s body for breastfeeding by stimulating milk production, if that’s the route you want to go down.

TOP MASSAGE TIP We do not use overly deep pressure during labour massage as we do not want to over-stimulate the body. Firmer massage can be used in earlier stages of labour if required and needed, however in latter stages especially, aim for slow and gentle movements, which keep our heart rate slow and steady.

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2. Involving Your Partner

2. Involving Your Partner It can be tricky for the Birthing Partner to find their place and purpose during labour. The Mum definitely gets the tougher end of the deal here, however, for partners it is naturally tough to watch someone you care deeply about go through such a huge physical experience and feel relatively helpless. Labour Massage can really help to bring couples together, give birthing partners a role and help them feel connected.

READING SIGNALS It is important for Birthing Partners to take the lead from Mum. She may not want a massage at all. Or perhaps she may not want to be touched at one moment, then massage may be just what she needs a few hours later. Try not to give up, but equally take her lead. Please just be honest with each other and do not take offence at the times when Mum needs some space.

BREATHING At all times during labour, deep breathing is going to be a big help for you both. Encourage Mum to breathe out with the pain and then breathe in once the contraction has finished. You may have practised breathing techniques at antenatal or yoga classes. This is great, and I would encourage you to practise your breathing together before giving birth. This can really help you to establish your rhythm more easily once in labour. Deep breathing can help your partnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body from tensing up when she feels the contraction building. In prenatal yoga and hypnobirthing, we are taught to think of breath as a natural painkiller. By focusing on breathing techniques while doing labour massage, hopefully Mum will feel more in control to deal with the contractions.

KEEP ACTIVE It is best for Mum to keep active where possible during labour. Try to keep upright and walk around as much as you can to help labour progress. Massage strokes can be applied when we are in a number of positions, not purely sitting down. We will look at these in more detail on the

Top Massage Tip

You do not need to remember complicated routines or do any of the massage strokes in a particular order. They are just here for you to have up your sleeve, to use when you both need them.

next page.

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3. Labour Positions Very few women actually birth their babies while lying on their backs (except if intervention takes place). Here are some ideas of labour positions some women find more comfortable. There is no routine or plan here at all, just some inspiration. Some of these really helped me, and some did not. Do not persevere if you get into position and find it uncomfortable, move onto the next until you find one that works for you. It is natural to transition from one position to another as you move into different stages of labour. Just be mindful that if you have an epidural, you will then be lying down (see hand massage tips on page 26.)

3. Labour Positions

S T A N D I N G / L E A N I N G A G A I N S T ( W I T H H A N D S O N T H E W A L L )

T H E

W A L L

I used this position a lot in the earlier stages of my labour, as it helped me to stay active in between contractions. The wall (or your partner) will be really handy for you to lean against when each contraction builds. To get into position: Steady yourself with your feet about shoulder-width apart, standing just in front of the wall. When you feel the need for support, lean forwards against the wall. Some women find it comfortable to put their hands together, resting their heads on their hands against the wall. Birthing Partners: You will be important here for support. You will be able to keep Mum active between contractions and be in a good position to try some massage strokes too if you can find a comfortable position here while she leans into you or a wall.

Top Massage Tip

Birthing Partners, you can really help to get Mum into position here, getting chairs ready and helping to support Mum as she sits/stands/kneels. You are so important here in making sure she is comfortable, physically supporting her and doing all the thinking so that she can just follow your guidance.

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3. Labour Positions

S I T T I N G U P R I G H T There are a number of places where you can sit during labour that may help you to feel comfortable. Birthing balls are great for the early stages, allowing you to rest while sitting but also be in a position to get up and move around without too much effort. Some women find stools helpful for the same ease of getting up, and others find the toilet works for them! Just find whatever works for you. To get into position: Sit down gently with the support of your partners. It is best to make sure your legs are wider than your shoulders and are always bent. Try to keep your back as straight as possible. Birthing Partners: You can really help here to keep Mum’s breathing going. She may also need to lean on you for support as the contractions build. This is a great position for you to try a few massage strokes as described later on, helping Mum to establish a calm birthing environment.

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3. Labour Positions

S M A L L S Q U A T W H I L E H O L D I N G T H E B E D / A S T E A D Y P R O P I found this position helped in the earlier stages of my labour. I could bend down and squat, while pulling on the bed during contractions, and it meant I could easily walk around and stay active in those rest periods too. To get into position: Steady yourself with your feet about shoulder-width apart, standing just in front of the bed/steady prop. When you feel the need for support, hold on tightly to the bed or steady prop, and then pull away from it and breathe out as you squat downwards. Birthing Partners: You can help here by supporting Mum’s hands as they hold the bed, and placing one hand on her lower back when contractions build. This will help her to feel supported and enable her to focus on breathing. If she chooses another prop instead of a bed, make sure it is steady and sturdy enough to take her weight. Mum will also need your support as she comes back up to a standing position so be ready at all times.

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3. Labour Positions

O N

A L L

F O U R S

This is a very common position for giving birth. My mum was actually in this position when I entered the world! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great for allowing natural gravity to take its course, enabling some arm power and helping you to breathe down with contractions. It is also pretty easy to get into this position, with no extra equipment needed. To get into position: Gently go down onto all fours, knees first, followed by your hands. Keep your knees under your hips and your hands under your shoulders. Some women find swaying from side to side between contractions can help too.

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3. Labour Positions

S S R Y

U Q E O

P U S U

P O R T E D A T W H I L E T I N G O N R P A R T N E R

This is a popular position for giving birth, as you can use your partner for support. You are also using gravity to your advantage, helping your baby to travel downwards. This is also helpful towards the latter stages of labour if your energy is dwindling, as you can rest between contractions and rely on your partner to take the pressure of your weight when needed. To get into position: Sit down comfortably (ideally on a cushion/bean bag or on the floor with your partner on a chair behind you), so that your Birthing Partner can sit directly behind you. Keep your knees and legs wide. Lean backwards so that your partner is taking your weight. Some women find that holding hands with their partners can help here too. Birthing Partners: Mum may well be very tired by the time she gets to this position so you will need to support her physically by holding the majority of her weight.Â Try to remind her to keep her legs apart and her straight back as this will help her deep breathing.

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3. Labour Positions

L Y I N G

O N

Y O U R

S I D E

This position can sometimes help the baby into the birth canal, and helps reduce pressure on the back for women suffering from lower back pain during labour. To get into position: Gently sit on the bed, then roll onto your left side. Move your legs apart and allow your Birthing Partner to take the weight of your right leg by holding it up as shown in the image. Birthing Partners: You will be a great help here in holding Mumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leg as shown in the image. You can also help with soothing massage strokes with your left hand if Mum so wishes.

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3. Labour Positions

K N E E L I N G / S I T T I N G W I T H A R M S R E S T I N G O N A C H A I R / P R O P I moved into this position when the contractions became more intense and closer together, and when I found moving around a bit more tricky. At this stage I needed to rest between contractions, and kneeling helped me to do that. Resting my arms on a chair helped me to stay upright and enabled me to continue my breathing exercises more easily. Some women also find kneeling on the bed with their arms up on the headrest comfy too, as pictured, as again they can rest and be comfortable between contractions. If you have a water birth, this can also work when you are kneeling in the water and holding your partner (outside the water) for support. To get into position: Sit back on your knees and keep your legs wide. Lean forward onto your chosen object, using your Birthing Partner for support. Birthing Partners: Depending on where Mum is giving birth, you may need a cushion or something soft and comfortable for her knees here. Be close if Mum needs you - she may want to rest on you between contractions and may want you to massage her while she is resting.

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4. Massage Oils We need to create some glide when massaging during labour. To do this I would always recommend using some oil. Creams can dry up too quickly and you may be in this for the long haul. Here, we explore some of my favourite oils for creating a soothing massage which also help birthing partners keep going with massage moves for longer.

4. Massage Oils I am a big fan of Neal’s Yard Remedies Oils. I use them for all my clients as 92% of their physically processed ingredients are organic. They also have a very respectable sustainability policy and do not test on animals. I found there were so many things marked as ‘unsafe to use’ during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, so I find it refreshing that Neal’s Yard Remedies really consider pregnant women and babies in their ranges. For my pregnant and post-natal clients I use their ‘Mother’s Massage Oil’ as it is safe to use, and smells so fresh and natural. Otherwise, I always recommend the following oils in pregnancy and labour massage. They are mild, free of essential oils and low in cost: - Sweet Almond Oil: As long as you don’t have an allergy to almonds then this is a light and neutral-smelling oil to use which is a great moisturiser and low-cost. It is very mild so is also recommended for anyone with delicate skin and is even good for babies. - Avocado Oil: This is a lovely oil to use in pregnancy as it is not only great for moisturising but also can help our skin to repair if it has been stretched to grow over our bumps. - Sunflower Oil: This is a strong safe choice for anyone with a nut allergy. It is also very mild and is scent-free yet great for soothing and moisturising the skin.

WHERE TO BUY You can buy these oils from a number of places such as Holland and Barrett, Planet Organic, Neal’s Yard or even big old Amazon. I just always look out for the organic stamp of approval as I know that means a higher quality oil that is free from nasties. Always make sure your oils are free from animal testing.

MASSAGE OILS TO AVOID It is always best to go to a registered Aromatherapy Massage Therapist if you are interested in using different essential oils and investigating the different benefits they can bring you. I am sure you will know this already, but just to remind you that in pregnancy we should avoid clary sage essential oil. Some women use this as a natural inducer product. I would strongly recommend reading up on this if you do want to go down that route, or ask your massage therapist for advice on how and when to use this in the latter stages of your pregnancy rather than testing things out on your own.

BIRTHING PARTNERS Before you start to massage your partner, just make sure your hands are warm (rub together or place on the back of your neck if necessary), squeeze out some oil about the size of a 10-pencepiece to start with, rub your hands together then gently place your hands onto the area you are about to massage and work up to the strokes described on page 24 onwards. Apply more massage oil as and when you need to or when friction starts to build up.

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5. Massage Guide

5. Massage Guide The exercises set out in the next section outline massage strokes that you may find soothing during labour. They are all designed to be straight-forward and to focus on areas of your body that may be working extra hard during labour and therefore need some more support. NO SET ROUTINE Just to reiterate, there is no set routine to remember here. You may find one stroke that really helps you and that you stay with the whole time, or you may find that you jump from one to another intuitively, as you change positions. There is no correct answer here, just whatever works for you both. QUICK PRACTISE I would recommend practising these exercises in the days before your due date, just so that you both know how to get into certain positions, can figure out how much oil you like to use, pinpoint where massage feels soothing, and the strokes that suit you well. A couple of 10-minutes practises should be more than enough. Keep in mind there is no need to do a routine or remember everything. Take these notes with you and refer back as much as you need to, it is not a test. You will find a helpful 'Notes' section on page 28 where you can jot things down to jog your memory.

BIRTHING PARTNERS: TOP TIPS FOR MASSAGE Massage slowly and try to create an even (light) pressure and rhythm. There should be no sudden movements or surprises. Massage where Mum feels the pain. Listen to your partner. There will be times when Mum wants a break from massage. Try to keep physical contact with Mum if she wants it, for reassurance, but again be led by her.

TOP TIPS DURING CONTRACTIONS Again focus on slow and rhythmic movements with light pressure. Your aim is to provide comfort and support.

Have patience. It can sometimes take as long as 20 minutes of massage for the endorphins to take effect and for Mum to start feeling the benefits of massage. Find out what is helping your partner and know that you are helping.

If your partner does want massage during her contractions, it is best to massage her lower back and/or buttocks and thighs as this is often where Mums feel the strain the most. If massaging the back, massage downwards in the direction of gravity where the baby is being birthed. Everything you are doing should be helping your baby’s journey downwards. Keep looking at Mum. She won’t be able to communicate very much during contractions so look out for small signs which may be her way of trying to tell you to stop/ slow down/ massage elsewhere/ just hold her.

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6. Massage Exercises

6. Massage Exercises SOOTHING SACRAL CIRCLES

This massage is very soothing, whether or not you are experiencing lower back pain during labour. The circular movements help to create a rhythm, making this stroke extra calming. Find a comfortable position for you both. This could be: - Standing up and leaning against a wall - Sitting or kneeling and leaning forwards against a chair or wall - Sitting on a birthing ball Using one hand to massage and the other to hold your partner or hold onto an object for support, use the heel of your hand to massage in a clockwise circular motion, in the area shown. You are looking for the little area just above Mum's bottom, in the middle of her back underneath her spine which should be quite flat or even look like a little dimple. Lean into the massage to help increase the pressure slightly, if needed.

MASSAGE WAVES: LOWER BACK

This exercise is recommended for anyone experiencing a lot of back pain (especially with babies being birthed sideways/back-to-back). Find a comfortable position for you both. This could be: - Standing up and leaning against a wall - Sitting or kneeling and leaning forwards against a chair or wall - Resting over the back of the bed - Sitting on a birthing ball As above, using one hand to massage and the other to hold your partner or hold onto an object for support. Use the heel of your hand to apply light pressure, then slowly glide straight across Mum’s lower back from her left side to the right. Now move back from the right side to the left, by wiggling your hand along, like a snake. Aim to keep the same rhythm, and same pressure throughout, despite your movements changing. You are looking for the same area of lower back (sacral muscles) that you massaged with the sacral circles. The middle should be just above Mum’s bottom, at the base of her spine, then work across the whole horizontal line from there (covering the oblique muscles). Lean into the massage to help increase the pressure slightly, if needed.

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BUTTOCK/ GLUTES MASSAGE

The aim of this exercise is to massage the top of the glutes and the buttocks, which work hard during labour to support the lower back muscles, the pelvis, and to hold Mum's body in whatever labour position she is using. Find a comfortable position for you both. This could be: - Standing up and leaning against a wall - Sitting or kneeling and leaning forwards against a chair or wall - Resting over the back of the bed I would not recommend a birthing ball here as Mum will need to lean forwards on her own without your support, as you will need both hands. Encourage Mum to spread her knees wide so that you can massage a larger area here. This time you will need to use both hands, at the same time. Starting at Mum’s coccyx, place your hands either side so that they make a V-shape, with your thumbs closest to the spine. Apply pressure at the heel of your hand, then move outwards, away from the centre line with both hands at the same time until you reach her waistline. You can then move back in a circular motion until you reach your starting point, then begin again. Remember to keep contact throughout.

Top Massage Tip

If your hands get tired for this move, you can always use your feet too, by leaning back and supporting your weight with your hands.

BETWEEN CONTRACTIONS

Aim to relax during this recovery time as much as possible. To keep contact, you can use light and relaxing strokes down either side of the spine either one hand at a time or both together, as you prefer. Start up between the shoulders and neck and work down. Make sure your hands go either side of the spine as directed on the image, rather than directly on the spine. Usually in massage therapy, we always massage towards the heart, however in labour massage we always massage down, to help the natural direction of the baby being birthed.

ABDOMINAL MASSAGE

In general with pregnancy and labour massage, I find this is less popular as many women find their abdominal area and bumps extra sensitive at this time, and prefer it not to be touched. However, labour is such an unknown and you may feel an abdominal massage could help (perhaps during the early stages of labour when the contractions are less intense, and widely spaced apart.) Most importantly, ensure the pressure exerted is very light here at all times. The aim of this exercise is purely to comfort with your touch rather than trying to relax any muscles. Your hands should start below the bump, with your fingers touching in the middle. As Mum breathes out, move your hands in a circle at the same time, coming together in the middle. Your hands should move at the same time, but in different directions, in rhythmic movements.

HAND MASSAGE

A hand massage should be soothing and comforting. Try to be slow, steady and rhythmic in your delivery so that your partner feels the calming effect. This is particularly useful for anyone having a c-section or an epidural, who is therefore lying on their back when the baby is birthed. 1. Palm-Up: Taking one of your partner’s hands at a time, rest it in on the fingers of both your hands, palm-up. Using both your thumbs, massage in circles all over the palm and up to their wrist. 2. Palm-Down: When you feel ready, turn your partner’s hand over so that it is palm-down and use your thumbs to massage the back of the hand. You can also slide your thumb along each finger bone up towards the wrist. 3. Holding Hands: My favourite hand massage enables you to also hold hands. Place your partner’s hand in one of yours, and rest it so that hers is palm-up. Then use your other hand to massage her hand with your thumb in slow and rhythmic circles. Massage all over her hand, all the way to her wrist. This is such a reassuring stroke that encourages great connection between you both. Top Tip: It is also great to give your partner a hand massage at any time after labour (especially when she may be exhausted in a few weeks’ time and appreciate some extra comfort!)

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Massage Notes MASSAGE OILS NOTE DOWN YOUR FAVOURITE PRODUCTS, SCENTS OR TYPES OF OILS

MASSAGE STROKES WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE STROKES, AREAS TO BE TOUCHED OR MASSAGE EXERCISES?

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7. Testimonials

7. Testimonials Rupa, Essex. I had seen Rupa in the weeks leading up to her due date, and I was truly honoured when, on the day of her last treatment with me, she arrived already in the early stages of labour. This was one of the most incredible treatments I have ever had and I always feel a beautiful connection with Baby Zara.

I started my massage sessions with Jo when I was pregnant with baby number two. On the day I gave birth, I was getting ready for my last appointment with Jo when I started having contractions. My partner was super anxious about me attending as I was in the early stages of labour. Jo also kindly suggested if I needed to cancel and if I was absolutely sure I was ok to attend, but for me I wanted to go as her treatment room was my happy place and

I knew I’d somehow feel relaxed and at ease. So I did attend and I believe this appointment alone helped me through my amazing labour journey.

was a very quick labour. My baby girl was delivered in less than 45 minutes once I arrived at hospital and even my midwife was in awe. For me, that massage just started off my labour on the right note and got my mind and body in the right space for what was to come."

I felt relaxed throughout my session. I didn’t nod off but my eyes were closed and I was in some kind of zen state until the contractions came. The energy in Jo’s treatment room that day was mindblowing and unexplainable. What continued that day

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7. Testimonials Kimberley, Essex.

I was fortunate enough to meet Jo whilst pregnant and have no doubt that the massages I enjoyed throughout my pregnancy played a huge part in ensuring I was the most relaxed version of myself when it came to labour.

I knew Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d somehow feel relaxed and at ease. The labour massage guide was a lovely way of helping us use her techniques all the way through early labour and gave me a sense of familiarity and calmness.

It was also super helpful for my husband who appreciated the clearly explained examples which allowed him to feel involved, helpful and connected. My personal fave was the sacral warming circles which felt soooo nice - a welcome distraction."

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7. Testimonials Katie & Chris, London.

Jo's massage advice was invaluable during labour with my daughter. I didn't realise, but she was sideways so all the pain was in my lower back. The only position that was comfortable for me was standing up and leaning over a chair with my husband massaging my lower back, as Jo directed, in between contractions.

Being given something practical to do during labour, which actually helped Katie, made me feel like I was useful and able to do something to help ease the pain slightly. Thanks Jo!"

- Katie.

MASSAGE & ME

My labour was long and this helped during the stage at home to take my mind off the pain and also help my husband feel useful."

- Chris.

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7. Testimonials Kate Doyle (@thewellnessmidwife), Midwife, Reflexologist, Hypnobirthing and Antenatal Teacher, London.

The power of human touch has many benefits. Especially when used in the form of massage in pregnancy, labour and birth. In my role as a midwife, reflexologist, hypnobirthing and antenatal teacher I am always amazed at how quickly massage techniques can make a difference to both the woman and her partner. For the women, it is a form of positive contact that increases hormones such as oxytocin and endorphins.

This leads to increased relaxation, calmness and during labour helps to keep labour progressing normally whilst increasing levels of comfort.

during a caesarean birth or perhaps a water birth. Massage techniques can be a tool for bonding that although learned in pregnancy, can be practiced for years after as well as with the baby."

For the partner, massage is an effective tool that they can use to be an active participant in the pregnancy and birth. It can be used at any stage of a labour where the woman is happy to receive it, from a firmer massage in early and established labour to gentle arm/hand stroking before or

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A FINAL WORD

OF SUPPORT Wonderful women and wonderful birthing partners, thank you so much for downloading my ‘Labour Massage Guide’ eBook.

Above all, I hope you’ve found it useful and practical. Good luck for the big day, you will be truly wonderful! If you have any questions or would like to request some online demos or help, please don’t hesitate to contact me on the details below.

I’d love to hear how you get on so please share stories of your new arrivals if you would like to!

Take care.

Jo x Instagram:@massageandme Website:www.massageandme.co.uk Email:jo@massageandme.co.uk