If you are one of those people who still do not know what the perineal massagewe are going to tell you everything we know about this technique prior to childbirth and its characteristics.
Although there are many relaxing massages that can be performed at home or in specialized centers, there are also some that aim to prevent health problems. This is the case of perineal massage, an alternative for women who are about to give birth and who want to do so with all the security measures.
In this article we are going to tell you what it is, what it is for and teach you some generalities of this therapeutic procedure:
What does perineal massage mean?
Let’s start by defining what perineal massage means. It is a technique that increases the elasticity of the perineum and thus prepares it for childbirth. Generally, this type of perineal massage is performed during the last 6 weeks of pregnancy in order to avoid an episiotomy (surgical incision in the perineum area to shorten labor and hasten the delivery of the fetus). In turn, this process seeks to mitigate the risks of suffering tears while the baby’s head comes out during delivery.
Are you part of the so-called body massages?
Technically, yes. It should be noted that although it is obviously performed on the body, it has no aesthetic purpose but it is part of the therapeutic massages that serve as a treatment to prevent or correct neuromuscular and musculoskeletal body disorders, among others.
Perineal home massages
One of the great advantages of home perineal massages is that they do not necessarily have to be performed by a doctor. You or your partner can do it, only you must take into account some minimum recommendations so that it comes out in the best way:
- Wash your hands very well and make sure your nails are short and smooth.
- Try to have an empty bladder at that time.
- Apply moist heat based on compresses or take a shower with hot water 10 minutes before starting the massage.
- Rest in a comfortable position. It is recommended to do it semi-sitting or in a squatting position. Finally, lubricate the perineal area and the fingers only with oils or creams indicated for this type of massage.
- An additional key, if you will be doing the massage yourself, use your thumb. If the person in charge will be your partner, it is preferable that you use the index and middle fingers for comfort.
Follow these simple steps to do perineal massage the right way:
1. Insert your fingers (which must be previously lubricated) into the vagina to a depth of 3 to 4 cm and apply very light pressure downwards, as in the direction of the rectum, and then to the sides, always gently. Do this action until the moment there is vaginal distention.
2. Keep this pressure at the entrance of the vagina. This will help you get to know the pressure you will feel at the time of delivery as the baby’s head comes out.
3. Then, place the 2 or 3 opposite fingers on the outside, simulating a grip similar to that of a clamp, very delicate in the area of the perineum. Finish there with oscillating movements for a few minutes.
Are you pregnant right now? Tell us in the comments if you have already been performing the perineal massage and how it has worked for you.
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