Lymphatic Drainage For Pregnancy and Postpartum
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At the Prenatal Massage and Movement Center, we understand the journey of the physical changes that come after childbirth, including postpartum edema. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized service we offer to help new birthing parents to manage swelling, promote faster recovery, and enhance their overall well-being.
What are the Causes and Symptoms of Pregnancy and Postpartum Related Edema?
Prenatal and Postpartum Edema is characterized by swelling in the extremities, generally visible in the legs, feet, and hands. This occurs due to the body's response to childbirth and hormonal fluctuations. While it's a common and often temporary condition, it can cause discomfort and concern for new parents.
The increase in blood volume and fluids during pregnancy, coupled with the pressure exerted by the growing uterus on pelvic blood vessels, contributes to fluid retention. During and after childbirth, as the body works to shed this excess fluid, swelling can become more pronounced. Hormonal shifts also affect how the body manages fluids.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Pregnancy & Postpartum Recovery
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle yet effective therapeutic option for managing prenatal and postpartum edema. This specialized form of massage stimulates the lymphatic system, a crucial part of the body's immune and waste removal system.
Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage:
Effective Edema Management: MLD facilitates the movement of lymph fluids, helping reduce swelling by aiding the body in flushing out excess fluids.
Pain Reduction: Light, rhythmic strokes utilized in this approach can significantly reduce the discomfort and tenderness associated with edema.
Boosted Immune System: MLD enhances the lymphatic system's function, which is vital in fighting infections and maintaining overall health, especially for birthing parents.
Relaxation and Emotional Well-being: This soothing technique offers relaxation, which is essential for mental health, aiding in the relief of postpartum stress and anxiety.
Facilitates Quicker Postpartum Recovery: By improving lymphatic circulation, MLD aids in quicker healing and recovery from childbirth, helping the body to return to its pre-pregnancy state more efficiently.
Improves Skin Elasticity: The gentle massage can also improve skin elasticity, which may benefit birthing individuals dealing with skin changes post-pregnancy.
Why Get a Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) offers a natural and effective approach to managing pregnancy and postpartum edema, promoting circulation, faster healing, and enhancing your overall well-being during pregnancy and postpartum. Similar to the way a regular prenatal or postpartum massage provides relaxation and prepares your body for childbirth, MLD can significantly reduce swelling and discomfort for a smoother postpartum recovery.
Meet Our Lymphatic Drainage Massage Therapists
Anne Heckheimer
Founder, NYS Licensed Massage Therapist
Anne Heckheimer is the founder and owner of the Prenatal Massage & Movement Center. She is a New York State licensed massage therapist, certified Restore Your Core®, and Body Ready Method® teacher, and has over thirty years of experience working in the fitness and wellness industry
Jessalyn Jimenez
NYS Licensed Massage Therapist
Jessalyn graduated from the Swedish Institute College of Health Sciences with additional training at the Chubb Institute. She is a certified prenatal massage therapist through Mamassage® and a certified lymphedema therapist through the Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy.
FAQs
Does lymphatic drainage help during pregnancy and postpartum?
Yes, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) can be a beneficial addition to both pregnancy and postpartum care. During pregnancy, it can help manage swelling, especially in the hands,legs and feet. After childbirth, MLD is a gentle and effective technique that stimulates the lymphatic system, encouraging your body to naturally flush out excess fluids and reduce swelling. MLD can also help with pain reduction, immune system support, and overall well-being.
Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) safe for breastfeeding individuals?
Yes, MLD is generally considered safe for breastfeeding individuals. In fact, it can be beneficial by reducing discomfort and encouraging faster recovery. However, it's always best to consult your healthcare provider beforehand, especially if you have experienced postpartum complications.
How many Manual Lymphatic Drainage sessions will I need to see the best results?
While everyone's body responds differently, we generally recommend at least three sessions to get the most out of Manual Lymphatic Drainage. This allows for consistent stimulation of the lymphatic system, leading to noticeable reductions in swelling and improved overall well-being.
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