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Tummy massage for a newborn: how to do it right for an infant and baby,
A tummy massage for a newborn eliminates colic, bloating, and helps with constipation. You can do it yourself by studying the rules and technique of the procedure.
Preparing the baby for massage
The procedure helps to normalize the baby’s digestion, eliminates tummy hypertonicity. But in order for the massage to bring only positive emotions, it should be performed in a good mood. The kid should not be capricious or sleepy.
Tummy massage for a newborn is carried out using a special technique
Before the session, you should prepare:
- Adjust the room temperature. To perform the massage, the baby must be undressed, so if the room is cool, turn on the heater.
- Warm your hands by rubbing them together. If you touch the skin of a newborn with cold hands, he will become anxious.
- Prepare the place where the procedure will be carried out. A changing table, orthopedic bed, or other flat surface will work.
- Place a diaper or diaper under the ass. Often, after the massage, the baby’s intestines are released.
To make the procedure pleasant, vegetable oils can be used during it. They must be natural, free from dyes and fragrances that can cause allergies.
How to properly massage a baby
The procedure should be carried out before meals, otherwise the baby may regurgitate. Use the following technique during the session:
- First, warm up the muscles, preparing them for the massage. To do this, rub your palms and attach them to your tummy.
- Start the massage with light U-shaped strokes.
- Touch the base of your palm to the pubis, and place your fingers on the tummy. Begin circular motions with all fingers. Press gently so as not to hurt the child.
- Raise the baby’s legs and start shaking them. Then sharply press your knees to your tummy. Hold your legs in this position for a few seconds, and then shake slowly again.
- Straighten the baby’s legs. Stroke it with your fingers along the body so that it relaxes. Tingle around the navel.
This technique improves bowel function and removes gas. But it must be done very carefully. Do not press hard on the pubic area and liver. The duration of the session should not exceed 5-6 minutes.
Thus, tummy massage helps to cope with the main digestive problems of newborns – colic, bloating and constipation. But before performing the procedure, you should study its technique in order to avoid mistakes.