Could fertility massage therapy give you the relief you’ve been looking for? This therapy has been used for centuries for everything from fertility support to help with swollen milk ducts and blocked fallopian tubes.
Breast and womb massages are also believed to provide emotional benefits while aiding with the connection between motherhood, womanhood, and our sense of self.
Read on to learn more about this helpful practice, and the benefits it can provide for you and your baby.
What is Womb Massage?
Not only is massage a great way to relieve stress, but women can use this technique to heal a wide range of common conditions. From digestive health to reproductive wellness, this type of therapy is an effective way to:
Align digestive organs
Relieve pressure
Strengthen the muscles in the area
Support healthy circulation
Assist with problems in the sleep cycle
Fertility massage has been used for years as a natural way to improve the chances of conception without medical intervention. Applying strategic pressure to the right parts of the reproductive system is believed to improve egg health and healthy hormonal production, which are both key components of a successful conception.
Women can also use this method as a way to alleviate symptoms caused by ailments like PCOS, endometriosis, or even IVF treatments. By promoting the production of feel-good hormones like oxytocin, massaging the abdominal area can provide a high level of relief from pain caused by abdominal inflammation, pelvic issues, impacted fallopian tubes, and more.
You can apply a bit of massage oil for a more luxurious experience. Look for oils that include specific ingredients with homeopathic benefits, like calendula for detoxification or lavender for stress relief. Natural herbs and plant extracts enrich the oil with helpful power, while also filling the air with a lovely scent.
Physically, the application of pressure to the lower abdomen is an effective and gentle way to relieve pressure, pain, and tightness caused by pregnancy or the menstrual cycle. For women looking for a way to help with period pain or PMS, womb massages are a simple alternative to over-the-counter medicines.
Is There a Difference Between Womb and Breast Massages?
Fertility massages are a widely used therapeutic practice, but this method predominantly focuses on the abdominal area. This technique is also called womb massage therapy and is used more before and during pregnancy.
Breast massages have been widely used by women around the world for a variety of health reasons, including:
Milk production
Gland stimulation to kickstart labor
Tumor detection and prevention
Increased awareness and bodily autonomy
Empowerment through self-education
Supports healthy cell turnover
Improved lymphatic circulation
Hormonal balance
Breast massage is commonly used as a self-testing method to look for lumps or abnormalities. Inclusions like tumors or irregular moles could be indicative of cancer or other illnesses.
This practice can tell you a lot about the state of your health and wellness. Effective massage techniques rely heavily on self-awareness, and this method is a great way to learn more about yourself and your body’s unique needs.
How do You Give Yourself a Breast and Womb Massage?
Using the proper techniques and knowing what to look for will improve the effectiveness of your breast and womb massage.
Breast Massage Techniques
There are multiple benefits to giving yourself regular breast massages, and a few different methods to achieve the optimal results.
Cancer Detection
Standing in front of a mirror, look for any changes in the shape, color, or texture of your breasts. With one hand cradling the back of your head (elbow sticking out), use the first three fingers of your opposing hand to massage your breast with smooth, circular motions.
Be sure to massage the entirety of the breast, from the top of the ribcage to the base of the collarbone.
Lactation
Using the first four fingers of each hand, place one on either side of your breast (top and bottom). Apply gentle pressure to move your fingers simultaneously in small, circular motions. Position your hands on either side of the same breast, and repeat the motion. Finally, use the same technique on the other breast.
Womb Massage Techniques
Depending on the reason for your uterine massage, you want to use the correct technique for the job. (But, no matter which option you choose, be sure to hit the restroom first!)
After Childbirth
Regularly performing womb massages can greatly help with swelling, pain, and inflammation after giving birth.
Start by laying down in a quiet, relaxing place and putting both hands on your stomach. Gently press in a downward motion from your ribcage to below the navel, using the first four fingers of each hand. Perform this motion smoothly for about 5 minutes, noting any cramping or bleeding during the process.
While this can be a normal effect of your massage, consult with your doctor if you notice anything out of the ordinary.
Boosting Fertility
Pelvic and abdominal massages are known for their fertility benefits, which are largely attributed to hormonal production.
For this method, timing is everything. Be sure to keep your menstrual schedule in mind, and try to perform womb massages during the pre-ovulation and ovulation phases.
Fertility massages are performed in the same manner as postnatal uterine massaging, and you can apply even more pressure since there will be significantly less pain and sensitivity.
Medical Benefits of Self-Massaging
While the efficacy of breast and womb massaging for fertility is debated among medical professionals, performing self-massage has been proven to aid with:
Sleeplessness
Nervous system support
Acupressure
Blood circulation
This type of physical therapy is also a cost-free way to relieve stress, which can heavily impact fertility, mindfulness, and overall well being.
In a time when self-care is more important than ever, breast and womb massages are finally gaining mainstream traction.
Expecting or not, we could all benefit from spending a little extra attention to our health and bodily wellness. With a time commitment of just a few minutes per massage session, you owe it to yourself to make sure you’re as healthy and aligned as possible.
Pamper yourself and reap the wellness benefits by giving yourself a complete breast and womb massage session. For a full spa-worthy experience, use an all-natural product regimen like the Vulva Vida Self-care Santuary Kit.