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Massaging of newborn babies using oils had been introduced centuries ago in China. It is also a common traditional practice in India that has been passed down through the generations and is now also an emerging practice in western countries. All due to the growing body of scientific research research that has documented several benefits of newborn baby massage using oils for both the baby and the parent. Literature has documented a wide range of physiological, psychological and social benefits of massage for newborns and it has also been proven that the use of oils is more beneficial than simple touch therapy. This article shall discuss in detail the benefits of oil massage for a newborn and how to get started on the journey for your newborn baby.
The benefits of oil massage are two fold. Not only do oil massage techniques benefit the newborn but also have an effect on the caregiver. Let us discuss these in detail below:
1. Some benefits of oil massage for the newborn are related to the application of oil whereas the others are due to the touch stimulation provided to the baby. The application of oil on the skin has proven to improve the function of the skin barrier and help in the regulation of body heat through the skin. Oil application has also been shown to have a positive effect on the growth of a preterm baby through absorption of fats through their thin skin.
2. Enhancement of weight gain and overall physical growth of the newborn as massage techniques stimulate the pressure receptors of the muscles.
3. Massage also stimulates the nervous system which causes stimulation of the motility of the gut leading to better digestion.
4. Stroking the belly helps in improving digestion and elimination therefore relieves symptoms of gas, constipation and diarrhoea. Massage also helps to relieve colic symptoms which improves the baby’s mood.
5. Oil massage for babies suffering from jaundice is particularly helpful as the touch stimulation helps lower the bilirubin levels.
6. Touch therapy during massage stimulates the relaxation receptors of the body which are responsible for lowering the heart rate and reducing stress thus leading to better sleep for the baby. Further, touch stimulation provided by massage techniques are researched to increase the melatonin levels which adjusts the circadian rhythm of the body.
7. Promotes cognitive development of the baby in areas such as attention, concentration and orientation by stimulating certain neutrons in the brain.
8. There is an improvement in the motor development of the child due to facilitation of the muscles during massage.
9. Massage sessions with caregivers help improve the pre language skills of the child with positive engagement thus working on eye contact, listening skills, babbling and imitation.
10. Massage sessions provide quality one-on-one time with the parent. This time for interaction is highly engaging and fun which increases the baby’s attention and liveliness.
11.Time spent with the baby during an oil massage session has been proven to improve the sleep quality for the mother and also improved maternal understanding of the baby’s sleep and mood.
12. Studies show that massage sessions with the baby have improved the mother’s mood, reduced symptoms of postpartum depression, improved maternal satisfaction and increased the self esteem of parents.
13. Promotion of a stronger and more positive relationship development with the baby has been observed. There is also more involvement of both parents and better engagement with other family members.
In the first few months of the newborn’s life, dry skin is very common as the newborn skin is more prone to losing moisture. Because of this, the recommendation of using oils has become a traditional practice. It is usually safe to start oil massage after the umbilical stump has fallen off which generally takes about two weeks. There is a risk of infection if massage with oils is started before this period.
However, it has also been noted that starting massage too late may cause the baby to become more resistant to the process making the practise difficult for the parent. It is necessary to remember that each child is different and may react differently to massage techniques and may even have their own preferences. For preterm babies, it is best to consult a paediatrician before starting any new practice.
Dry massage can be started immediately for a newborn. However, it is recommended to wait for at least two weeks till the umbilical stump falls off. Doing oil massage earlier than that may increase risk of infection.
A massage session typically lasts for 15-20 minutes however, it should only be continued as long as your baby is enjoying it. Discontinue the massage if your baby seems to be overstimulated or disinterested.
Whenever your baby is active and alert is a good time for massage. Many parents like to massage their babies before bedtime and the baby is in a relaxed state. Some parents also like to massage in the morning to start the day. Avoid massage immediately after feeding time.
You can massage your baby daily or every other day as well. The frequency of the massages will depend on you and your baby's preference.
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