This is a great way for fathers-to-be to get actively involved in their partner's pregnancy. Your workshop can take place in your own home and at a time convenient for you.
It is useful to learn the techniques in your home because that is usually where you will be during the initial stages of labour. It is also a good way to break down some of the fear of labour by having a practical tool you feel comfortable with.
The workshop will teach you a simple and easy-to-remember massage routine to use during labour to help ease pain and provide support and comfort. You will learn how to massage safely and comfortably, so that you don't injure your hands or back.
You will also learn how to give a relaxing pregnancy massage. The pregnancy massage can in future be broken up into a back massage, a shoulder massage or a leg and foot massage, or can be done in full.
I aim to spend about 90 minutes with you, although I am often surprised at how quickly some couples pick up the routine. I am happy to stay longer than 90 minutes, if you feel you need more time.
You will receive a set of handouts on massage during labour and pregnancy, as well as one on acupressure during labour and a small bottle of oil to use for practicing afterwards.
My training
I have completed a specialised course in massage during pregnancy and labour. I am also qualified to do sports, deep tissue and Swedish massage. My practice is at The Bodywork Studio in Highbury.
Why massage is useful during pregnancy
Massage in pregnancy helps ease sore, tight muscles and improves
joint flexibility. It also helps improve lymph and blood
circulation which reduces swelling. Even a short 20 minute
massage on the main problem areas can be very effective at reducing
pain. Knowing how to do a safe pregnancy massage is
important.
Why massage is useful during labour
During labour, adrenaline levels rise and this lowers
the
endorphins in the body. Too much adrenaline slows labour
down.
Getting the endorphin levels to rise helps to lower
adrenaline.
After 20 minutes of skin contact massage, the body begins to
release endorphins, as well as two other hormones necessary for labour
to progress, prolactin and oxytocin.
Labour is a strenuous and tiring time, so it is really helpful to have someone present who can help soothe tired muscles and help keep you calm. Some midwives have trained in labour massage.
Please note: some women do not want to be touched during labour. This may occur during all stages of labour, or just at some points. If this is the case, you could try stimulating acupressure points instead of massage.
Deborah Betts' article on Natural Pain Relief Techniques for Child Birth Using Acupressure is a useful article. To read or download, click here.
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