Top 10 Benefits of Postpartum Massage & FAQs for New Moms

The weeks after birth feel like a blur of feeding schedules, healing, and figuring out how to take care of yourself and your baby at the same time. Your body is still flooded with relaxin, your muscles are adjusting to new demands, and your mind is processing a lot. Postpartum massage gives your body and nervous system a chance to reset while you move through this new phase.

My name is Courtney, and I run Crescent Moon Massage in Grand Rapids, where I specialize in prenatal and postpartum massages. That includes C-Section Scar Massage. 

Below are the top benefits new moms notice, followed by the most common questions we hear in the studio.

Counting Down Postpartum Massage Benefits

1. Relief from neck and shoulder pain

Feeding positions, carrying a newborn, and leaning over bassinets put constant strain on the upper body. Massage helps release tight muscles so you can move without that familiar pinch.

2. Lower back and hip support

Your body is still adjusting from pregnancy. Relaxin takes time to leave your system. Gentle therapeutic work eases the pressure your lower back and hips have been managing for months.

3. Reduced swelling

Lymphatic style massage helps move excess fluid out of the legs, feet, and hands. Many moms notice they feel lighter and less stiff after even one session.

4. Improved circulation

Better blood flow helps your muscles recover faster, supports healing, and reduces that heavy, sluggish feeling that can show up after delivery.

5. Support for posture changes

Feeding, rocking, holding, and lack of sleep all change the way you stand and sit. Massage helps realign tired muscles and reduces the aches that come from new repetitive habits.

6. Pelvic and abdominal tension reduction

Your core and pelvic muscles have been stretched and supporting more weight for months. Massage helps ease tension in surrounding muscles and can support a smoother postpartum recovery.

7. Stress relief and better sleep

Your nervous system spends a lot of time on high alert with a newborn. Massage encourages relaxation so that you can rest more deeply when you finally do sleep.

8. Gentle pain management after delivery

Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, your body is healing. Massage can help reduce tension in the surrounding areas while avoiding any zone that needs more recovery time.

9. Hormone balance support

While massage does not change hormones directly, it lowers stress hormones and helps stabilize mood, which is helpful in a phase where everything feels unpredictable.

10. A moment for yourself

New moms rarely get quiet time. One hour on the table can feel like a reset button for your mind and body. At Crescent Moon Prenatal Massage in Grand Rapids, we also have a special space for moms to bring their babies if you can’t stomach the thought of leaving them at home. 



Postpartum Massage FAQs

When can I get a postpartum massage?

Many moms come in as early as two weeks after birth. If you had a C-section, most therapists wait until your doctor clears you for massage near the incision, usually around six weeks. Gentle work in other areas is often fine sooner.

Can massage help with my C-section scar?

Yes, but only at the right time. Scar massage can be very helpful for mobility, comfort, and long-term healing. Most providers recommend waiting until your incision is fully closed, the scar is no longer tender, and your OBGYN gives you the green light. That is usually around six to eight weeks postpartum. We will work with your provider to find the right time to work on the C-section scar massage.

Is postpartum massage safe while breastfeeding?

Yes. Massage does not interfere with milk production. Some moms like to feed or pump before their session to avoid breast fullness during positioning.

Does massage help with postpartum back pain?

Absolutely. Much of postpartum back pain comes from tight hip flexors, glutes, or upper back muscles. Massage helps reduce that tension so that you move more comfortably.

Does postpartum massage help with swelling?

Yes. Manual lymphatic techniques are especially helpful for reducing fluid buildup in the legs, feet, and hands.

Can postpartum massage help with my posture?

Yes. Your posture changes dramatically during pregnancy and again while caring for a newborn. Massage helps loosen the muscles that are pulling you into uncomfortable positions.

Is it normal to still feel relaxin in my body after birth?

Yes. Relaxin stays in your system for weeks or months, which means your joints can still feel loose. This is why working with someone trained in postpartum massage is important. They understand how to support your body while it stabilizes again.

What should I wear to a postpartum massage?

Wear whatever makes you comfortable. Most clients undress to their comfort level, stay covered, and are positioned with plenty of bolsters and support.

Can postpartum massage help with mood or anxiety?

Massage is not a replacement for mental health care, but it can help lower stress hormones and ease physical tension that often makes emotional symptoms feel worse.

Does postpartum massage hurt?

No. It should never feel painful. The work is gentle, supportive, and focused on helping your body recover, not pushing through discomfort.

How often should I get a postpartum massage?

Many moms come every two to four weeks. Some book weekly sessions during the early weeks because the physical demands are high and the recovery window is constant.

We’re Here to Answer Your Postpartum Massage Questions

Your postpartum journey deserves support, comfort, and answers that actually make sense. Courtney at Crescent Moon Massage in Grand Rapids has extensive training in prenatal and postpartum care, including C-section recovery, muscle tension relief, and gentle MLD techniques. She has plenty of openings and takes time to go over your questions, understand what your body needs, and build a plan that fits your stage of healing.

Whether you are dealing with tight shoulders, pelvic tension, swelling, or a C-section scar that needs attention once you are cleared, you do not have to navigate it alone. You can book online 24 hours a day, so scheduling is easy even during newborn chaos. Feel free to reach out with any questions.