Hips
This is one area that can be particularly achy during pregnancy and labour.
1. Simon uses a kneading stroke, with a closed fist to the muscles of the hip joint.
2. Using two hands, Simon increases the pressure in this area. McNeely encourages Simon to use his body weight rather than just the hands to apply pressure and stay relaxed himself. When increasing the pressure of any stroke, McNeely emphasizes the importance of good communication. Ask your partner for feedback: "Is this too deep; too light; or just right?"
Legs
Simon is using flat-handed effleurage, a slow, smooth, rhythmic stroke along the entire leg that is very helpful for restless or achy legs during pregnancy and labour, promotes circulation, and helps with edema. During labour, if your partner prefers to be covered and you're working through fabric, use a squeezing motion rather than the long strokes(see "Massage Oil").
Abdomen
1. This stroke is called "Full Sun, Half Moon." During our photo shoot, the baby became quite active at this point, much to Simon's delight. Always massage the abdomen with a clockwise motion. Start with your hands on either side of your partner's belly, moving in circles with one hand lifting over the other. A simpler stroke is to move one hand in a clockwise circle.
2. If your partner is reclining when you do this, make sure to support her head, lower back and underneath her knees with pillows. Abdominal massage is done during the second and third trimesters, if there is no medical complication.
Originally published in Today's Parent Pregnancy & Birth, Spring 2004. This content was current at the time of publication.
