Labor Preparation
As women approach the final 6-8 weeks of pregnancy, we often spend time talking about and working on particular muscles to prepare for labor. I provide support and instruction on perineal massage and pelvic floor preparation (including pelvic floor, or “Kegel” exercises). These muscles and tissues are stretched tremendously in the birthing process. Preparation work through exercise and self-massage can help prevent postnatal complications (such as urinary incontinence, and later in life, uterine prolapses, etc.), and perineal massage reduces the likelihood of tearing and the need for episotomies. Research has shown that women who do not do consistent perineal massage are 2 and half times more likely to have a vaginal tear during childbirth. Aside from the work of the pelvic floor and vagina, the pregnant woman’s entire body works hard throughout labor. We work with women to help get their muscles ready to support them as they assume all sorts of positions during labor (squatting, kneeling, etc); our particular focus is on the legs, hips and pelvic muscles – promoting flexibility, tone and muscle relaxation.
Partner Massage Instruction
Additionally, moms-to-be will often bring their partner in for a session. We spend this time together learning massage and relaxation techniques to help support the woman throughout the last few months of pregnancy, as well as actual labor. These techniques often let a partner play a much stronger supportive role in helping alleviate some of the laboring woman’s discomfort. This support is critical for women, as research indicates that the more supported a woman feels throughout her labor, the more positive the labor outcomes will be (less obstetric interventions, shorter labors, infants more alert immediately following delivery, and better adjusted families postpartum).
Labor Massage & Doula Support
Early in 2006 I completed my training as a Doula, and over the next year will need to attend a series of births as a doula in order to finish my national certification (DONA). In addition to doula support, I can play a less coaching-oriented role as massage therapist during labor. If you are interested in learning more about having a doula or trained massage therapist as a support person at your birth, let me know!
