Pushing on the stomach after birth, also known as fundal massage, is performed to help the uterus contract and prevent excessive bleeding. After childbirth, the uterus needs to shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size, and this massage helps it do just that.
Preventing Postpartum Hemorrhage
The main reason for fundal massage is to prevent postpartum hemorrhage, or excessive bleeding after delivery. As the reference mentions, "The main reason to perform uterine massages is to help encourage the uterus continue to contract and prevent postpartum hemorrhage."
After the placenta detaches from the uterine wall, it leaves behind open blood vessels. Uterine contractions help to clamp down on these blood vessels, reducing bleeding. Fundal massage encourages these contractions.
How Fundal Massage Works
Here's a breakdown of how fundal massage assists the uterus:
- Stimulates Contractions: Massaging the uterus stimulates it to contract, similar to how it contracts during labor.
- Reduces Bleeding: These contractions compress the blood vessels in the area where the placenta was attached, minimizing blood loss.
- Helps Uterus Return to Size: Regular massage helps the uterus to gradually shrink back to its normal, pre-pregnancy size.
What to Expect
Fundal massage is typically performed by a nurse or doctor shortly after delivery and may be continued periodically for several hours or even days postpartum.
