Premature babies are those born before 38 weeks of gestation. They may suffer health problems such as low birth weight, trouble latching on to the breast or breathing difficulties. Premature babies are usually required to stay in the hospital longer than full-term babies before being released. Premature babies can benefit in several different ways from infant massage.
Pain Relief
According to Childbirth Solutions Inc, premature babies often suffer pain associated with gas, muscle spasms and other issues. Giving regular infant massages to a premature baby can reduce pain in the baby because massage therapy is relaxing and feels good. Giving a preterm baby regular massages can also target the specific causes of pain in the infant, such as colic or digestive problems. Massage around the tummy can reduce gas and relieve the pain of constipation as well.
Improved Immune System
Giving a premature baby a gentle infant massage can also help to boost his immune system, allowing him to heal faster. The Pacific College of Oriental Medicine states that the stresses of loud noises and bright lights in the hospital can actually weaken a baby's immune system; massage therapy increases a baby's resistance towards infection. Infant massage can also improve lung function and protect babies from getting sick, according to the PCOM.
Increased Growth
Pediatrician and Professor of Pediatrics at the University of California at Irvine, Dr. Bill Sears, states that preterm babies who receive regular massages grow better than those who don't. He explains that the act of touching and massaging a baby stimulates the baby's production of growth hormones and also increases their hunger. Thus premature babies who are underweight can greatly benefit from daily massages. Dr. Sears states that premature babies who get massage gain on average 47 percent more weight than those who receive no massage therapy.
Better Behavior
Another benefit of infant massage for premature babies, and their parents, is that premature babies who receive massage exhibit better behavior. This is most likely due to the fact that they are relaxed and less stressed. Premature babies who get regular infant massages sleep better during the night, they respond more to their parents and they are less fussy, according to Dr. Bill Sears. Infant massage can also lead to greater bonding between the baby and the parents.
