I watched the video that is called “Pregnancy massage for labor pain.” As it can be understood from its name, the recording intends to teach people – primarily pregnant women’s partners – special manipulations and techniques that would help to alleviate physical suffering during or before labor. In this regard, it is argued that massages are one of the most effective practices to address pain and can be used solely or in combination with other methods.
Before the procedure starts, the mom-to-be should take a position that would make her feel comfortable. For example, the video suggests that a woman can stand on her knees and lean forward on a chair, small table, or special platform. For more comfort, it is advised to put pillows or other soft materials under the knees and elbows or chin. Additionally, future moms can be asked to take deep briefs for some time, allowing relaxing the body and mind and better preparing for the massage.
The first manipulation that can be made is called long nerve strokes. Here the masseuse gently slides the hand along the patient’s backbone with light pressure several times. The coach suggests that when labor starts, this technique should be used between contractions but not during them. Double hip squeeze is the second method introduced in the video. In order to perform it, the person that makes the massage should put the hands on either side of the patient’s hips with the palms facing each other and push arms towards each other. Such an action would help to relax the pelvis muscle and make childbirth easier. Moreover, for the same purpose, the masseuse can slightly press the sacrum, but such a technique is limited to the period of labor. Finally, slow dance can also help to relax and reduce the pain.