Do Uterine Massage

If you have just given birth, are trying to conceive, or simply want to ease abdominal discomfort, uterine massage may be a perfect option. This practice is a method of getting the uterus back into shape after childbirth, and helps to re-position the uterus and improve circulation. It is also said to increase fertility and ease symptoms of menstruation and menopause. Practice uterine massage at home by gently massaging the area between your navel and pubic bone. You can also book an appointment for a Mayan massage, which incorporates uterine massage as part of its treatment.

Steps

Massaging Your Uterus After Child Birth

1. Urinate before starting the massage. Be sure to urinate before massaging your uterus. A full bladder will press against the uterus, making it relax and bleed more extensively. Emptying your bladder will also make it easier to concentrate on the massage.
2. Lie down somewhere comfortable. Choose a comfortable spot to lie down for your massage (e.g. your bed or a yoga mat). If possible, choose a quiet room with very few distractions. Lie completely flat on your back.
3. Press and rub your abdomen. Hold your hand flat and use the entire length of it to press downwards on your abdomen, starting just below your navel. As you press down, rub your hand in a gentle, circular motion. Brace yourself for cramping or extra bleeding, which is likely to occur during the first few moments of the massage.
   • If pain relievers have been approved by your physician, take ibuprofen before massaging your uterus to reduce the pain from cramping.
4. Massage regularly until the bleeding stops. Uterine massage helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size, and helps to slow and stop post-natal bleeding. Continue daily uterine massages for a few weeks until the bleeding subsides. You may experience vaginal bleeding for anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks after child birth.
   • Ideally, your uterus should feel firm, almost like a grapefruit. If your uterus feels soft and baggy, it is more likely to bleed heavily and requires further massage.
5. Seek assistance from an obstetrician, nurse, or mid-wife. To ensure that you perform post-natal uterine massage properly, ask your obstetrician, nurse, or mid-wife to demonstrate it prior to attempting it yourself. If you are concerned that the massage is not working, or that something may be wrong, contact your physician immediately. Signs of a problem could include:
   • Severe abdominal pain
   • Pain when urinating
   • Dizziness or fainting
   • Vaginal bleeding that gets heavier over time (instead of getting progressively lighter)

Doing Uterine Massage to Improve Fertility

1. Time your fertility self-massage. Uterine massage should be conducted at certain points of your menstrual cycle and avoided at others. For instance, uterine massage should be avoided during menstruation as it may increase your blood flow, and cause discomfort or pain. Aim for the period of pre-ovulation and ovulation, when conditions are ideal for insemination.
   • Avoid uterine massage if you are pregnant, or suspect that you might be, particularly during the first trimester.
2. Gently massage your lower abdomen. Uterine massage for fertility should be conducted in largely the same way as post-natal uterus massage, if not slightly more intense due to the lack of pain and sensitivity. Use the flat of your hand and fingers to gently press and rub your abdomen in circular motions. Press gently on your abdomen, just above the pubic bone, and push upwards, gently but firmly, as if you move the uterus upwards. Repeat this motion 15 times.
   • The massage should last approximately 5 minutes.
3. Make the experience relaxing. To enhance your uterine massage, play tranquil music and use a calming scented oil (e.g. lavender) when massaging your abdomen. Stress can contribute to fertility problems and adversely affect your health, so any relaxation is beneficial in helping you conceive. Group your regular uterine massage together with other calming activities like yoga, light exercise, or journal-writing for additional benefits.
4. Do self uterine massage for 1-3 months. For best results, give yourself regular uterine massages for a period of one to three months. Conducting the massage daily (excluding menstruation days) should re-position the uterus and clear any blockages preventing conception within this time frame. Regular massaging will also improve circulation, which will have benefits for your fertility and overall health.
5. Get a Mayan massage. Mayan massage has been used to increase fertility, improve digestion, ease menstrual cramps, and improve symptoms of menopause. Look online for massage therapists near you practicing Mayan massage, which is gaining popularity. Schedule an appointment to fall between the end of your period and ovulation, as many practitioners of Mayan massage will decline to conduct the massage when you are menstruating or may be pregnant.
6. Consult a physician or fertility specialist. Before embarking on any fertility boosting measures, consult your doctor to ensure their safety. Your physician may give you a referral to a fertility specialist who can offer more comprehensive help in your attempts to conceive. You can also contact an organization like the American Society for Reproductive Medicine for more information about reputable fertility specialists in your area.
   • To search for fertility specialists near you, visit the ASRM's website at https://store.asrm.org/Default.aspx?TabID=1527.

Sources and Citations

See also

• Do Hair Spa Treatments at Home
• Give a Head Massage
• Perform a Carotid Massage
• Perform Lymphatic Drainage Massage
• Give a Leg Massage
• Give a Deep Tissue Massage
• Massage Your Partner
• Give a Romantic Massage
• Do an Indian Head Massage
• Take the Time to Pamper Yourself

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