6 Importance & Benefits of Postpartum Massage!

By Teddyy Editorial Team | Last Updated: April 23, 2026

Postpartum massage is a powerful way to support your body as it heals from the physical demands of pregnancy and childbirth.
On the one hand, your body is recovering from a long and demanding journey called pregnancy and childbirth. On the other, you’re launched into your new round-the-clock role as a mama to a tiny, little human.

Don’t exhaust yourself too much. Take a breather every now and then and allow your body to rest and recover. This is where postpartum massages come in.

As a new mother you’re constantly on the hunt for the best baby products for your little one. We understand how important it is for you to find the right products for your baby’s delicate skin. This is why we make Teddyy Baby Diapers, one of the best diapers for sensitive skin! They are soft, gentle, super-absorbent, and protect your baby’s skin from rashes, irritation and infections.

Keep reading to learn the top six much-needed benefits of postpartum massage!

 

1. Reduced Swelling

During pregnancy, your body goes through a lot of changes that can put pressure on the organs and affect various functions of the body. Most women experience pressure on the major blood vessels caused by the expanding uterus. This often results in reduced blood circulation and water retention, ultimately leading to joint swelling.
By focusing on the soft muscles of the body through a postpartum mom massage, you can improve blood circulation, reduce fluid retention, flush out toxins, and restore your bodily balance.

2. Increased Breast Milk Production

If you’re a mother struggling to feed your baby because of reduced breastmilk production, a postnatal massage is just what you might need. Postpartum massage has been shown to increase the production of the hormone prolactin which is necessary for lactation.

3.  Hormone Regulation

A postpartum body is one of constant hormonal fluctuations. Your body is slowly going back to its original pre-pregnancy state. At the same time, it’s also producing a ton of different hormones to bond with your little one, help them get proper nutrition, deal with postpartum stress, deal with baby blues and so much more!
Postpartum massages can help your body reach its goals faster. It can also help balance stress, anxiety, and depression-causing hormones such as dopamine and serotonin. So, all new mommies must get postpartum massages.

4. Better Sleep

It might be difficult to settle into your new routine once the baby has arrived, when you haven’t even gotten over the exhaustion of pregnancy and childbirth. Postpartum massages will surely help you relax, unwind and sleep better. Your baby is likely to keep you up at night for little treats and snacks or just for the heck of it, so make sure you’re getting your postpartum massages to sleep peacefully during the day.

5. Pain Relief

Don’t worry if you’ve been feeling a little extra sore and ache all over. It’s completely normal! A postpartum massage can help relieve this pain, especially in areas that are likely to get sore, such as your arms, shoulders, back, and legs.

6. Improved Stability, Posture, and Co-Ordination

Pregnancy puts a lot of pressure in your abdominal region and your core muscles stretch and become weak. This can make the connective tissues relax and change your posture due to the shift in body mass. A postpartum massage can reverse these changes and help get your strength and pre-pregnancy posture back.
Also read: managing back pain after childbirth.
Also read: recovery after caesarean delivery.

You can start postpartum massage any time within the first 12 weeks after childbirth. In fact, you can start postpartum massage as soon as the day after giving birth! With your doctor’s approval of course.

As for mothers who went through C-section delivery, a postpartum body massage after C-section is not recommended until 6 weeks postpartum.

If you have any other questions about postpartum massage, taking care of your little one or just need somebody to help you through this magical yet difficult stage, we’re here for you and the comments section is all yours. ?

When can you start postpartum massage

For a normal vaginal delivery, most experts suggest waiting at least 5 to 7 days before starting a gentle postpartum massage, giving your body initial time to settle. After a c-section, wait at least 3 to 4 weeks and get your doctor’s clearance first, since the incision needs time to heal before any pressure is applied to the abdomen. Traditional Indian postpartum care often begins oil massage between day 7 and day 11, but always start light and stop immediately if you feel pain, dizziness, or heavy bleeding. Listen to your body, every recovery timeline is different.

Best oils for postpartum massage

The right oil makes a real difference. Sesame oil is the traditional Indian choice and is naturally warming, making it ideal for cooler months and for soothing achy joints. Coconut oil is lighter and cooling, which suits hot weather and sensitive skin. Bala ashwagandha thailam is a classic Ayurvedic blend used to support muscle recovery and reduce vata imbalance. For breastfeeding moms, avoid strongly scented essential oils on the chest area as the smell can confuse a nursing baby. Always warm the oil slightly before use, never apply it cold.

How often should you get a postpartum massage

Frequency depends on your routine and how you feel. A traditional jaapa maalish involves daily massage for 40 days, ideally done by an experienced postpartum maalishwali. If that is not practical, two to three sessions per week for the first 6 to 8 weeks still gives most of the benefits including better sleep, reduced swelling, and steadier mood. After the first six weeks you can shift to a weekly maintenance massage. The key is consistency, occasional massages feel nice but do not deliver the cumulative recovery effects.

When to skip a postpartum massage

There are situations when massage should be paused or avoided. Skip massage if you have a fever, active infection, untreated blood clots, severe anemia, or unhealed surgical wounds. Mothers with high blood pressure, preeclampsia history, or postpartum hemorrhage should consult their doctor before booking a session. If you are dealing with mastitis or blocked ducts, avoid deep pressure on the breasts and stick to very gentle lymphatic strokes. When in doubt, take a screenshot of your medical history to your massage therapist and let them adapt the session safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is postpartum massage necessary?

While a postpartum massage is not necessary, it can provide numerous benefits for new mothers. It helps in relieving muscle tension, reducing stress, promoting relaxation, improving circulation, and aiding in the recovery process. Additionally, postpartum massage can assist in balancing hormones, reducing swelling, and relieving any discomfort.

How soon can I have a Postpartum Massage after birth?

The timing of when you can have a massage after birth depends on various factors, such as the type of delivery, any complications, and your overall health. Consult with your doctor to get guidance on when it is safe for you to have a postpartum massage after birth.

Which oil is good for body Postpartum Massage after delivery?

When selecting an oil for postpartum body massage, choose natural and nourishing oils that are safe for both you and your baby. Some commonly used oils include coconut oil, almond oil, olive oil, and jojoba oil. These oils provide moisture to the skin, offer relaxation benefits, and are generally well-tolerated among both babies and mothers.