Postpartum massage at home: when to start and how to plan it with a baby

When you can start

The right time depends on how you gave birth and how you're recovering. Wait until your doctor clears you, usually at your postnatal check-up. After a vaginal birth you can often start sooner; after a C-section, wait until the incision has fully healed and your doctor agrees, which usually takes longer.

If you still have heavy bleeding, a fever, or a wound or stitches that are red, swollen or increasingly painful, see a doctor first and postpone the massage.

Why new mothers' backs and shoulders get so tired

Every day you bend to lift the baby, sit for hours while feeding and sleep in short stretches. Your back, neck, shoulders and wrists take the strain. A gentle massage helps you relax and rest more easily during these busy weeks.

Massage doesn't replace medical care. If you feel low or anxious for a long time, or can't sleep even when the baby does, talk to your doctor or someone close to you.

Suitable treatments on MiMi

Depending on your time and needs, you can choose:

• Postnatal care: a gentle full-body massage with a warm herbal salt compress and steam, 90 minutes (₫600,000) or 120 minutes (₫750,000).
• Neck and shoulders: a shorter 45-minute session (₫250,000) for the shoulders and upper back, handy when you only have a gap between feeds.

Tips for planning with a baby at home

A few things help the session go smoothly:

• Book right after a feed to get the longest stretch of time.
• Ask a family member to look after the baby while you're on the table.
• Pick a comfortably warm room without drafts; have a bed and a few pillows ready.
• In the booking notes, add how you gave birth, how long ago, and any advice from your doctor.
• If the baby cries, ask the therapist to pause; you can carry on once the baby is settled.