Massages Are Good For Premature Babies (And Mom!)

Can I massage my premature baby? According to a 2013 study published in the journal Early Human Development, you absolutely can – but start small.

Because touch is a baby’s first sense to mature, it’s no surprise that experts say touching your baby can help them reduce stress and create a long lasting bond.

While preemie, or premature, babies — those born at least three weeks before a full 40-week pregnancy term — are whisked off to the NICU (newborn intensive care unit) where whirring machinery, constant monitoring and separation anxiety create assed stress, new research found that massage therapy promotes maturing of the newborn’s immature autonomic nervous systems (ANS), in turn, putting them at ease.

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According to researchers at the University of Utah, led by Dr. Sandra Smith of the University of Louisville School of Nursing, baby massage consisting of two times daily for four weeks resulted in a host of benefits. This type of healing baby massage focused on five main areas, starting with a compression stroke and transitioning into light movements: thighs to feet, chest to ribcage, shoulders to hands, head from crown to neck, and along the back of the neck to the waist.

Those benefits include:

• Reduced stress in boys; but not girls: “We were surprised to learn the differences in the impact of massage therapy on preterm boys and girls,” Smith said in a news release.
• Higher mortality rates
• Counteract low blood pressure, stress-related metabolic and immune problems
• Improved sleep patterns
• Enhanced motor development
• Improved interaction with family and loved ones
• Increased weight gain
• Depression management for both baby and mom

Also keep in mind, that a majority of NICUs have a physiotherapist on staff, who can provide you with a few tips and techniques.

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In the meantime, here are tips from the experts over at Infant Massage USA:

Choose a massage oil, considering the following; cultural preference, availability, possible allergies and cost. Cold pressed oil and unscented oils are recommended as they are non-toxic, may contain beneficial nutrients, such as vitamin E, ingredients that help prevent rancidity and are less slippery when applied, which is safer when handling your baby after application.

Attend a class. Most courses consist of 4-6 weeks where licensed massage therapists provide you with the tools to perform an effective, comfortable therapy treatment.

But most of all, make the most of this unique quality time ensuring it is both a fun and relaxing time for baby and mom.