Uterine massage, often called fundal massage, involves firm, circular motions on the lower abdomen to stimulate uterine contractions, crucial after childbirth to prevent postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) by helping the uterus clamp down. For other goals like fertility or relaxation, techniques vary, but generally involve gentle, rhythmic movements on the lower belly, sometimes using oils, with experts recommended for complex care to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Insert one or two fingers (or thumbs if you are doing it yourself) inside the vagina to the first knuckle and apply firm sustained pressure for about 10 seconds on the skin and muscles at different angles around the clock at 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 (essentially all around the lower half).
Massage therapists must also be aware of endangerment sites where deep pressure should be avoided:
Immediately postpartum typically they will do a fundal massage every 15mins for the first hour, then every 30mins for the next hour. After that it differs per hospital, some do every hour, some do every 4 hours, and other do every 12 hours. There's not a recommended time frame by any governing bodies.
To increase your chances of fertility, use these guidelines to keep a healthy uterus, and prevent complications.
These steps will help you prepare yourself and your body for pregnancy and give you a better chance of having a healthy baby.
Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Lemons, Grapefruits)
Citrus fruits are the best fruits for uterus health as they are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. They help improve immunity, support collagen production, and protect uterine tissue from damage. A glass of lemon water is a simple addition to a uterus cleansing diet plan.
One of the most popular benefits of regular massage therapy is improving blood flow and circulation. In terms of fertility, by improving blood flow to organs that are needed to transport hormones, it can help to aid hormonal balance, which can greatly improve the chances of conceiving.
When to Have Fertility Massages. For best results, it is best to start a fertility massage protocol 90 days prior to the beginning of any fertility treatment like IUI or IVF and commit to a minimum of one treatment per month in conjunction with a self-care routine at home.
It can help relieve stress and pressure in the abdominal area. This ancient holistic healing practice gently manipulates the muscle and connective tissue around the uterus and other organs in the pelvis. It is a delicate, non-invasive therapy that is one of many that we offer.
Massage red flags include professionalism issues (no license, unsanitary space, unprofessional boundaries, inappropriate touch, poor communication, body shaming) and physical warning signs (sharp pain, numbness/weakness, nausea, intense pain that takes your breath away, symptoms that worsen or don't improve). Trust your instincts if you feel uncomfortable, and prioritize a therapist who respects your boundaries, communicates clearly, and maintains professional standards for hygiene and draping, as indicated by this article from All Bodies Massage Therapy.
When massaging, avoid vulnerable areas like the front/sides of the neck, armpits (axilla), behind the knees (popliteal fossa), abdomen (especially if pregnant), groin (inguinal triangle), and the spine's bony prominences, due to major nerves, arteries, and organs. Also avoid injured spots, open wounds, rashes, bruises, varicose veins, recent surgical sites, sunburns, and any unknown lumps or skin conditions to prevent injury, infection, or worsening symptoms.
Massage works by relaxing the uterine muscles that cause cramping, improving blood flow to reduce inflammation, and triggering the release of natural pain-relieving endorphins.
The 5-5-5 rule is a postpartum guideline for the first 15 days of recovery, emphasizing rest to help the new parent heal and bond with the baby, by spending 5 days in bed, followed by 5 days on the bed, and then 5 days near the bed, gradually increasing activity while prioritizing rest, nourishment, and self-care over chores or visitors. It's a framework for creating boundaries and slowing down to prevent overexertion, though individual recovery needs should guide the pace.
It will still take some time before your belly starts showing that you are pregnant. And yet, at 11 weeks pregnant, you will be able to feel that your womb has grown. Lie down on your back and press gently just above the edge of your pelvic bone.
Essential oils like clary sage, lavender, and frankincense are known for their fertility-boosting properties.
The highest pregnancy rates happen in couples who do this. Have sex near the time of ovulation. If you can't or don't want to have sex every day, have sex every 2 to 3 days a week starting soon after the end of your period. This can help ensure that you have sex when you are most fertile.
To protect your fertility, make these healthy lifestyle choices:
Place your left hand over your heart and your right palm below the belly button, over your womb, on the midline. Begin by slowly circling your right hand clockwise over the womb. The pressure can be adjusted to your preference, but I usually recommend just the weight of the hand to start.
Recommended Massage Modalities for Enhancing Fertility: Efflorescence Massage: Known for its gentle and relaxing strokes, Swedish massage is ideal for reducing stress and improving circulation—both essential for a healthy reproductive system.
In addition, some types of tea drinks such as green tea and ginger tea also have good antioxidant content to improve fertility. Ginger contains an active compound called gingerol that plays a role in increasing sperm production and quality.
Prostaglandins can help ripen the cervix, stimulate contractions, induce labor, and accelerate delivery. As a bonus, dates are a fantastic source of fiber and antioxidants! The recommended serving of dates is six dates per day.
Foods To Avoid For Healthy Uterus
Red Meat and Processed Meats: Eating a lot of red meat like beef, pork, or sausages may raise the risk of fibroids and other issues. Sugary Foods: Too much sugar can mess up your hormones and lead to weight gain, both of which are bad for your uterus.