Massaging Your Newborn To Poop: A Step-By-Step Guide

How to Massage Your Newborn to Poop

It can be distressing for parents to see their newborn in pain or discomfort. One common issue that babies face is constipation, which can be hard to communicate due to their limited vocabulary. A gentle tummy massage can help relieve constipation and get things moving smoothly again. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to effectively and safely massage your newborn to encourage a bowel movement.

Warm the room and your hands

Warming the room and your hands is an important step in preparing for a baby massage. Here are some detailed instructions to help you create a comfortable and relaxing environment for your newborn:

Warm the Room

• Set the room temperature to a comfortable level. Ensure the room is warm enough, especially if you plan to remove your baby's clothing during the massage.
• Dim the lights or shut the curtains/blinds to block out harsh sunlight.
• Choose a familiar space for the massage. This could be a room with their favourite toys or a comforting environment they are used to.
• Turn off any distractions like the TV, phone, or loud music. Opt for soothing music or lullabies if you prefer.

Warm Your Hands

• Before starting the massage, warm your hands by rubbing them together vigorously. You can also run your hands under warm water for a few minutes.
• If using lotion or baby oil, warm the container by placing it in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes.
• Put a small amount of lotion or oil in your hands and rub them together to further increase the warmth.

Remember to always test the warmth of your hands, lotion, or oil on yourself before applying them to your baby's skin. Creating a warm and soothing environment is essential for your newborn's comfort and relaxation during the massage.

Use baby oil or natural alternatives

Baby oil is a great option for massaging newborns to help them poop. However, not all baby oils are created equal, and some may contain harmful chemicals. Opt for natural products that are safe for your baby's delicate skin. Look for ingredients such as avocado oil, pomegranate seed oil, sunflower oil, or coconut oil, which are nourishing and hydrating.

If you prefer to use natural alternatives, there are several options to choose from. Grapeseed oil is a cold-pressed vegetable oil that contains vitamin E and has moisturising properties. Almond oil is another excellent choice, as it is rich in vitamin E and has been shown to improve skin thickness and strength in premature babies. Coconut oil is also a wonderful option, as it has been found to improve and strengthen the skin of newborns.

When selecting a massage oil, it is important to read the labels carefully and avoid products containing harmful ingredients such as phenoxyethanol. Additionally, always perform a patch test before using any new product on your baby's skin. Apply a small amount of the oil to a small area of your baby's skin and wait for at least an hour to ensure they do not have any adverse reactions.

Once you have chosen a suitable baby oil or natural alternative, follow these steps to massage your newborn:

• Warm the oil by rubbing it between your hands before applying it to your baby's skin.
• Place your baby on a soft, warm surface, such as a towel or blanket, in a comfortable and relaxing environment.
• Start the massage by placing your forefinger near your baby's belly button and moving it in a clockwise direction, gradually spiralling out towards the edge of their belly.
• Progress from using one finger to using your whole palm, gently pressing and holding their tummy at the end.
• Always move your hands in a clockwise direction, following your baby's line of digestion, to create internal movement and help with constipation.

Massage in a clockwise direction

Massaging your newborn in a clockwise direction is important as it follows your baby's line of digestion and helps create internal movement. This can help relieve constipation and move built-up air out of their digestive tract.

To begin, place your baby on a soft, warm towel in the centre of a bed or on the floor. Ensure the room is warm, quiet, and free from distractions like phones or TVs. You may also want to play some soothing music and dim the lights to create a relaxing environment.

Now, place your forefinger near your baby's belly button and start to move it in a clockwise motion, gradually spiralling out to the edge of their belly. After a few rotations, switch to using two fingers, then three, and so on until you are using your whole palm to make the same motion. Always remember to move your fingers and hands in a clockwise direction, as this follows your baby's digestion.

You can also try the "I Love You" (ILU) stroke, which involves tracing the letters "I," "L," and "U" on your baby's tummy using massage oil and your fingers. Start on the left side of your baby's belly and use the tips of your fingers to trace an "I" right under their rib. Repeat several times. Then, move to the right side and trace an upside-down "L" from the far side of the right rib towards the centre of the belly and down towards the belly button. Finally, trace an upside-down "U" by starting near the baby's right hip and moving up across the tummy to the left side.

By massaging your baby's tummy in a clockwise direction, you can help stimulate their digestive system, relieve constipation, and ease any tummy troubles they may be experiencing.

Rock your baby's feet towards their nose

Rocking your baby's feet towards their nose is an excellent technique to help shift stubborn wind and aid constipation.

To perform this technique, place your baby's feet together, with the soles touching. Hold this shape and rock their feet towards their nose, as far as is comfortable, and then return to the starting position. Repeat this motion three to five times.

This technique is particularly effective at easing tummy troubles as it helps to move built-up air out of the digestive tract, relieving discomfort and helping your baby feel like themselves again.

Before performing this massage, ensure you time it right. It is recommended to wait at least 30 minutes after feeding to give your baby time to digest. You can also perform the massage 45 minutes after your baby has eaten or just after a bath when they are likely to be more relaxed.

Additionally, create a soothing environment by setting the room to a comfortable temperature, playing lullabies or soothing music, and dimming the lights. Remove any jewellery that may irritate your baby's skin and warm your hands by rubbing them together or running them under warm water.

Remember to always observe your baby's reaction and comfort level during the massage. If they seem uncomfortable or agitated, try a lighter pressure or a different stroke.

Move your baby's legs in a cycling motion

If your newborn is constipated, you can try moving their legs in a cycling motion to help them poop. This technique is particularly useful if your baby does not tolerate tummy massages well.

To do this, place your baby on their back and gently turn their legs in a cycling motion. This will shift their stomach muscles, which will in turn put gentle pressure on their intestines, encouraging a bowel movement.

Before you begin, ensure the room is warm and your baby is lying comfortably on their back. You can also play some soothing music and dim the lights to create a relaxing environment.

Additionally, it's important to note that you should always move your baby's legs in a gentle, clockwise direction. This follows your baby's natural line of digestion and will help create the desired internal movement.

This technique is a great way to help your newborn relieve constipation and encourage a healthy bowel movement without resorting to medication.

Frequently asked questions