workshop on massage during pregnancy and labour

This workshop will teach a father-to-be how to do a safe and easy massage during labour to help relieve pain. He will also learn an easy pregnancy massage routine.

length of time and cost

The workshop is about 90 minutes long and costs £80.

Details

This is a great way for fathers-to-be to get actively involved in their partner's pregnancy. The early stages of labour are usually spent at home, which is why I visit you, so that you can use the cushions and furniture already in your home to get ideas about how you can modify your environment during early labour. Please note, if you do not live in the Highbury or Islington area, I may not be able to do a home visit workshop, but you can book one with me at my therapy room at The Bodywork Studio in Highbury.

The massage routine for use during labour is simple and easy to remember. I ensure that you learn a safe and comfortable technique, so that you don't end up with sore fingers and a stiff back. This is a practical tool to help both of you cope with the stress of labour.

You will also learn how to give a relaxing pregnancy massage. Pregnancy massage is safe from the second trimester right up to the time of labour. This massage can be broken down into shorter sequences if you don't have the time to do it all, or if you're only concentrating on one problem area (such as low back pain).

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.

The benefits of massage 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.

The benefits of massage 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.

To book a workshop, please contact me.