The effect of baby massage on mom’s mood

Feeling tired, overwhelmed, stress out? Maybe more physical contact with the baby is the answer.

A study of the effects of baby massage on mothers? mood status concluded ?- as we would have guessed — baby massage has a positive effect on the mood status of the mothers.

The findings are based on 39 mothers who were randomly assigned to massage or control groups. The mothers were evaluated before the first day of the baby massage, and then 3 months after delivery.

The profile of mood states (POMS) evaluation survey was used to assess each mothers response. POMS measures six dimensions of affect or mood, including tension-anxiety, depression-dejection, anger-hostility, vigor-activity, fatigue-inertia, and confusion-bewilderment.

The researchers concluded, “We propose that midwives and other healthcare professionals should recommend mothers to do baby massage to improve their own mood status.”

Francoise Lefebvre says, “Baby massage is privileged means of communication and intimate contact with our [your] baby and child.”

Illustration: Francoise Lefebvre

9/24/06 22:17 JR