Birth Definitions

Perenial Massage Definition

Perineal massage is a form of stimulation that involves stretching and manipulating the perineal tissue with one or two fingers. It aims to prepare these tissues for stretching over your baby’s head and body during vaginal delivery. It’s essential to note that before performing this massage, you spoke with your midwife, then you can perform perenial massage on your own or with the assistance of your spouse.

This image shows how often the term ‘Perenial Massage’ is used in relation to other, similar birth terms:

Perenial massage is more closely related to Deep tissue and Swedish massage that is also used during the certain stage of pregnancy to help the mother feel more relaxed and prepared.

Swedish massage uses five styles of strokes: effleurage (sliding or gliding), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (rhythmic tapping), friction (rubbing), and vibration which are thought to help improve circulation, joint range of motion, and flexibility.

Deep tissue massage is a type of massage that uses slower, more forceful strokes to target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Deep tissue massage can provide enormous benefits to your back, shoulders, and feet since these regions are put under a lot of strain during pregnancy. It is completely safe for you to receive a deep tissue massage in your lower sacrum up to your shoulders, which will leave you feeling revitalized and full of vitality.

Some benefits of perineal massage:

-May reduce the incidence of perineal trauma (i.e. tearing).

-Can help the baby’s head to “mold” more easily through the birth canal, potentially reducing the need for an episiotomy.

-May shorten the duration of labor.

-May help to expel the placenta after delivery.

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