Most of us are familiar with the custom of an elderly female member of the family or a daumaushi coming in to give an oil massage to a woman who has just delivered and to the newborn baby. It is a very common practice across almost all parts of India.
But did you know that oil massage during pregnancy is equally important and beneficial?
Ayurveda has a comprehensive concept called Garbhini Paricharya, which is a regimen for pre- and ante-natal care. It recommends the right kind of food, activities, behaviour, and therapies for a woman during pregnancy. According to this, oil massage is essential not just for physical health, but also for the mental and emotional well-being of a pregnant woman.
A pre-natal oil massage offers many benefits, some of which are listed below:
A head massage helps relax both the body and mind. It lowers cortisol levels and releases endorphins, thereby reducing stress and anxiety.
Massage therapy improves sleep quality by increasing blood flow to the brain, which boosts serotonin production. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates moods such as happiness, sadness, anger, and anxiety.
During pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes to prepare for childbirth. As the uterus expands, muscles become loose and less toned—this is a natural process. However, it can cause tiredness and soreness. Prenatal massage helps strengthen and tone muscles, contributing to an easier and shorter labor.
The abdominal muscles support the uterus and other organs. During pregnancy, these muscles can become tight and painful due to the growing weight of the baby. Oil massage helps ease this tension and improves circulation, providing relief from pain.
The increase in body weight and posture changes also strain the lower back and feet. A massage with a foetus-friendly natural pain support oil can relieve lower back pain and soothe tired feet.
Weight gain during pregnancy is natural and necessary for the baby’s development and milk production. However, excessive weight gain can be harmful. Massage therapy helps keep metabolism active and may assist in burning calories during pregnancy.
Massage helps relax tense muscles and relieve muscle spasms. Focus on areas where pain is most noticeable, and massage the belly only lightly.
Itching is a common issue during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, dryness, or skin sensitivity. Oil massage helps keep the skin hydrated and soothes irritation effectively.
Body massage promotes better blood circulation throughout the body, especially to the uterus. It also supports lymphatic drainage, preventing toxin build-up and reducing swelling, particularly in the feet.
As the skin stretches with the growing abdomen, collagen and elastin fibers may rupture, leading to stretch marks (Striae Gravidarum).
Massaging areas like the abdomen, hips, and thighs—especially from the second trimester—helps improve skin elasticity, preventing stretch marks and reducing their intensity.
During pregnancy, weight gain supports the baby’s growth and milk production. However, maintaining a healthy balance is important. Massage therapy helps keep metabolism active and supports calorie burning.
Massage helps ease muscle spasms and relax tense muscles. Focus on painful areas and apply only light pressure on the belly.