How soon after a vaginal delivery can one receive a massage?

Apr 27, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
By 2-3 days postpartum, the mother's physical strength begins to recover, uterine contractions gradually stabilize, and the amount of lochia decreases and changes in color from bright red to light red. The body's blood circulation and metabolism also gradually return to normal. At this time, appropriate massage, such as uterine massage, can help promote uterine contractions, assist in expelling remaining lochia, and reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.

Generally, appropriate massage can be performed 2-3 days after a vaginal delivery. The detailed explanation is as follows:

During vaginal delivery, the mother experiences vaginal dilation, physical exhaustion, and possible perineal episiotomy or tearing. After childbirth, the body is relatively weak, and the reproductive system requires time to initially recover. On the first day postpartum, the mother remains in a state of extreme fatigue. Her body, especially the uterus, is undergoing contractions to return to its pre-pregnancy state, and lochia is being discharged in large amounts. At this time, the body's stress response and self-repair mechanisms are in a critical phase, making massage unsuitable.

By 2-3 days postpartum, the mother's physical strength begins to recover, uterine contractions become more stable, and the amount of lochia decreases and changes from bright red to pinkish. The body's blood circulation and metabolism also gradually stabilize. At this stage, appropriate massage techniques, such as uterine massage, can help promote uterine contraction, aid in the expulsion of remaining lochia, and reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.

However, the massage should be performed with gentle techniques to avoid unnecessary pressure or injury to the mother. Additionally, if the mother experiences severe bleeding, infection, or other complications after childbirth, massage should be avoided to prevent worsening of her condition.

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