Article: Uterine massage is typically performed immediately after birth to help with placenta delivery and to lessen the likelihood of hemorrhages. Uterine massages aren't necessary for everyone, though. Talk to your obstetrician, doula, or other birthing professional about when and why they would recommend a uterine massage. Massage will typically be recommended if you had a long or complicated active labor, or if you lose more blood than anticipated during and immediately after labor. Massages may also occur every fifteen minutes or so for the first two to three hours after birth to help the uterus contract down. Work with your birthing professional well in advance of your due date to create a medication plan to go along with your birthing plan. This way you will know well in advance if you anticipate being put on any medications that make uterine massage ineffective. Uterine massage is not recommended after childbirth if you received prophylactic oxytocin. There is little evidence to suggest sustained uterine massage would be harmful for those who received oxytocin. It simply may not be effective, and may cause some discomfort. Be prepared to be flexible with your medication plan. If complications arise during your delivery that necessitate extra treatment, it may be necessary to change what medications you receive. A uterus massage isn't the same type of massage that you might get for your shoulders or back. It typically involves your delivery professional placing one hand up the birth canal and the other on top of your uterus on the outside of your body. They may then either compress the area for a few minutes, or use back-and-forth motions to massage the area. Ask your birthing professional about which technique their staff practices and why. Get as much information as you feel you need to help you become comfortable with this process. Some doulas and midwives may practice other forms of uterine massage that come down through vernacular traditions. There is little scientific evidence either for or against such treatments. Discuss the process and potential pros and cons prior to giving birth.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Consult with your birthing professional. Prepare a medication plan. Discuss massage types.