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10 November 2009
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Hand holding baby's foot

Massage

Eileen Hayes

Used for healthy full-term babies, massage can be relaxing for both babies and parents.


Hands-on relaxation

Massage can:

  • reduce crying and help relieve colic
  • encourage better sleeping
  • possibly help to boost the immune system

Make sure the room and your hands are warm. Gently stroke any part of your baby's body, using oil if you prefer (baby oil is OK, but don't use aromatherapy oils and avoid nut-based oils such as almond oil).

Never carry on if your baby isn't enjoying it or seems unwell.


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Elsewhere on the web

International Association of Infant Massage
KidsHealth: a guide for first-time parents
National Childbirth Trust
BLISS: massage for special care babies
The BBC is not responsible for content on external websites



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