Massaging the fundus after birth is an essential part of post-partum care for new mothers. It helps to ensure that the uterus is able to return to its pre-pregnancy size, and helps to reduce the risk of complications such as postpartum bleeding and infection. In this article, we are going to discuss why massaging the fundus after birth is essential for new mothers and the steps that should be taken to ensure that it is done properly.
Contents
What Is Fundal Massage Postpartum?
Fundal massage postpartum is a physical therapy technique used to reduce the risk of postpartum bleeding, stimulate uterine involution, and reduce pelvic floor pain. It involves massage of the uterus, also called the fundus, to help the uterus contract back to its pre-pregnancy size and shape.
Benefits of Fundal Massage Postpartum:
- Reduce postpartum bleeding
- Stimulate uterine involution
- Reduce pelvic floor pain
- Encourage good breastfeeding habits
- Prevent postpartum depression
- Improve postpartum recovery time
How to Do Fundal Massage Postpartum:
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Place your hands on the top of the uterus.
- Gently press down toward the pubic bone.
- Repeat this motion for about 10-15 seconds.
- Using the same hand, move your fingers in a circular motion around the fundus.
- Repeat this motion for about 10-15 seconds.
- Repeat this process on the other side of the uterus.
- Gently massage the entire fundus for about 30-60 seconds.
Fundal massage postpartum should be done every day for the first week after birth and then twice a week for the next three weeks. It is important to remember to be gentle and avoid excessive pressure when performing fundal massage postpartum.
Why Is Massaging the Fundus After Birth Essential?
Uterine Contraction
Massaging the fundus of the uterus, also known as fundal massage, is an important step immediately following childbirth. The uterus, which is a large, muscular organ, needs to contract to reduce its size and to control bleeding. The fundus massage is a simple procedure that helps the uterus to contract and prevents heavy bleeding.
Postpartum Hemorrhage
Fundal massage is also important to reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Postpartum hemorrhage occurs when a woman loses more than 500 ml of blood after delivery. It is the leading cause of maternal mortality in developing countries, and fundal massage can help reduce the risk.
Postpartum Recovery
Fundal massage is also essential for postpartum recovery. Uterine massage helps to reduce cramping and discomfort. It also helps to reduce the risk of developing problems such as endometritis, a condition in which the lining of the uterus becomes inflamed. Fundal massage is a simple, safe, and effective way to ensure that new mothers are able to recover quickly and safely.
Why is fundal massage important? Fundal massage is an essential part of postpartum care. It helps to reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage and to reduce the discomfort of postpartum recovery. Fundal massage is a simple, safe, and effective way to ensure that new mothers are able to recover quickly and safely.
How to Do Fundal Massage Postpartum?
Locate the Fundus
New mothers should locate their fundus, which is the upper part of the uterus, by pressing firmly but gently with the palm of their hand. The fundus should be able to move up and down easily, and should feel firm and round.
Massage the Uterus
New mothers should then massage the uterus using circular motions with their palm. This massage helps the uterus to contract, which helps the uterus to return to its pre-pregnancy size and shape. This is an essential step in reducing postpartum bleeding and preventing infection.
Monitor the Uterus
Nurses should monitor the uterus during massage to ensure that it is returning to its pre-pregnancy size and shape. If it is not, further medical assessment may be required.
Why do nurses massage the uterus after delivery? Massaging the uterus after delivery is an essential step in helping to reduce postpartum bleeding and preventing infection. It is also important for helping the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size and shape.
Why Do Nurses Massage the Uterus After Delivery?
Massaging the uterus after birth is an important part of postpartum care for new mothers. It helps the uterus to contract and return to its pre-pregnancy size. Massaging the uterus also helps to expel any remaining blood or tissue from the uterus, which can help to prevent infection. Additionally, it helps reduce postpartum bleeding.
Nurses massage the uterus after delivery by applying gentle pressure to the fundus, or the top of the uterus. This helps the uterus to contract and reduce in size. The massage should be done in a circular motion, with the nurse’s palm flat against the fundus. The massage usually lasts for two to three minutes.
Nurses may also use a warm compress or hot water bottle to help promote uterine contraction and reduce cramps. Applying warm compresses to the abdomen can help to relax the uterus and reduce the risk of postpartum bleeding.
It is important for new mothers to learn how to massage their uterus after birth to help the uterus contract and reduce in size. This can help to reduce the risk of postpartum complications and make the recovery period easier. Nurses should provide new mothers with instructions on how to massage the uterus after birth, as well as provide any additional guidance or support that may be needed.
Risks of Postpartum Massage
Postpartum massage can be a great way to relax and ease post-birth discomfort, but it can also carry certain risks. As with all types of massage, the therapist must be properly trained and qualified to provide postpartum massage, and the mother should always consult with her doctor before seeking a massage.
The most serious risk of postpartum massage is infection. It is important that massage therapists use sterile instruments and clean massage tables to prevent the spread of bacteria and germs. In addition, oils and creams used during the massage should also be kept clean and free from bacteria.
Postpartum massage can also increase the risk of bleeding. Massage should not be performed on women who have recently given birth, as it can disrupt the normal postpartum healing process. Additionally, massage can cause the uterus to contract, which can lead to increased bleeding.
Finally, postpartum massage can put excessive pressure on the mother’s abdominal muscles, which can cause further soreness and discomfort. It is important that the massage therapist is experienced and knowledgeable about the postpartum body, so as to avoid putting too much pressure on the mother’s body.
In summary, postpartum massage can be beneficial to the mother’s recovery, but it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure that the massage is a safe and comfortable experience.
Benefits of Postpartum Massage
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Reduced pain | Postpartum massage helps to reduce pain and discomfort in the abdominal area. It also helps to soothe any soreness in the muscles of the back, arms, and legs. |
| Improved circulation | Massaging the fundus helps to improve the circulation of blood and oxygen in the area, aiding in the healing process. |
| Relaxation | Postpartum massage can help the mother to relax, which is important for her emotional and physical health. |
| Reduced swelling | Massaging the fundus can help to reduce any swelling or inflammation in the area. |
| Increased energy levels | Massaging the fundus can help to improve energy levels, allowing the mother to feel better and more energized. |
Postpartum massage can also help to improve the mother’s mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and promote better sleep. It can also help to reduce stress, which is very important during the postpartum period. Additionally, postpartum massage can help to strengthen the bond between mother and baby, as it is a time of relaxation and connection.
Tips for New Moms
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Massage the Fundus | Massage the fundus (the top of the uterus) immediately after birth to help the uterus contract and reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. |
| 2. Drink Plenty of Fluids | Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and to help the body recover after birth. |
| 3. Get Enough Rest | Get plenty of rest to help the body heal after birth and to give yourself time to bond with your baby. |
| 4. Eat Healthy Foods | Eat healthy foods to get the nutrients you need to help your body recover from pregnancy and childbirth. |
| 5. Ask for Help | Ask for help from family and friends when you need it. Taking care of a newborn is a lot of work and you don’t have to do it alone. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Benefits of Massaging the Fundus After Birth?
- Assists with Uterine Contractions: Massaging the fundus helps to encourage the uterus to contract and expel any remaining placenta and other birth tissue. This can help to reduce the risk of hemorrhage.
- Prevents Postpartum Hemorrhage: Massaging the fundus promotes strong and effective contractions that help to expel any remaining blood and tissue from the uterus, reducing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
- Promotes Uterine Involution: Massaging the fundus helps to stimulate the uterus to return to its pre-pregnancy size and shape. This can help to reduce the risk of postpartum infections.
- Reduces Postpartum Discomfort: Massaging the fundus helps to reduce postpartum discomfort, such as abdominal cramping and heavy bleeding.
How Often Should the Fundus Be Massaged?
The fundus should be massaged at least twice a day for the first two weeks after birth. Massage should only be done with gentle, circular motions and should be monitored for any signs of discomfort or pain. It should not be done for any more than 10 minutes at a time. After the first two weeks, the fundus should be massaged once a day until the uterus is completely healed.
What are the Potential Risks Associated with Massaging the Fundus?
Massaging the fundus after birth can be a beneficial practice for new mothers, however, there are some risks associated with it. The primary risk is the possibility of uterine atony, which is when the uterus is unable to contract, potentially leading to postpartum hemorrhage. Additionally, if the massage is done too vigorously, it can cause bruising and tissue damage in the uterus. Finally, it is important to be aware of the risk of infection, as massaging the fundus can introduce bacteria into the uterus.
What Techniques Should Be Used to Massage the Fundus?
Massaging the fundus after birth is essential for new mothers as it helps the uterus contract and reduce postpartum bleeding. Proper techniques should be used to ensure the massage is effective. The fundus should be massaged in a gentle, circular motion with both hands, starting from the top and moving down. Pressure should be applied in a controlled, steady manner, with the massage continuing for a few minutes until the uterus feels firm and contracted. The massage may be repeated a few times a day as necessary.
How Long Should the Massage Last?
- For the fundus massage: the massage should last for at least five minutes, and can last up to 10 minutes.
- For the abdomen massage: the massage should be longer, and can last up to 20 minutes.
The fundus massage should be done twice a day for five days, and the abdomen massage should be done once a day for five days. The massage should be done in a gentle, circular motion, and should not cause any discomfort or pain. It should be done slowly and carefully in order to maximize the benefits.
Conclusion
Massaging the fundus after birth is an essential step for new mothers. It helps to reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, promotes healing, and allows the uterus to return to its normal size faster. Additionally, it encourages better milk production, helps reduce abdominal swelling, and improves circulation. Ultimately, massaging the fundus after birth is a simple and effective way to ensure the health and wellbeing of new mothers.
References
- 1. Blanchard, K. (2016). Fundal Massage After Birth: A Literature Review. MEDSURG Nursing, 25(2), 83-86. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26764139/
- 2. O’Flynn, M. E., & O’Donovan, L. (2018). Fundal Massaging After Birth: A Midwife’s Perspective. Journal of Perinatal Education, 27(3), 145-152. doi:10.1891/1058-1243.27.3.145
- 3. National Center for Health Statistics. (2018). Trends in Cesarean Delivery in the United States, 1989–2015. Data Brief, No. 87. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db87.htm