Getting a massage

[Dot-to-Dot]

My body has been so sore ever since pregnancy.  Since then I have spent two months contorting my body to hold a crying baby in ANY position that would keep her calm and happy for as long as I have to despite how painful the position is for me, sleeping on the couch, co-sleeping in bed again contorting my body any which way would keep her asleep and comfortable, hunching over the baby while latching on, then holding her as upright as I can while she nurses because she has reflux which doesn't feel natural or comfortable at all, lugging a heavy car seat around as well as a heavy toddler.  My neck, shoulders and back are KILLING me.  Even my legs and arms feel tight and sore.  My body just hurts sooooo badly.

I want to go get a massage...but it hurts to lay on my boobs.  Plus, I leak.  Of course you can't wear a bra and pads while you get a massage because you don't want straps in the way.  Lay on a burp cloth? 

Any of you breastfeeding mamas (especially those of you who are still getting engorged and leaking) had a massage laying on your breasts?  It's seriously all I can think about.  I want it so bad!  But it just seems awkward while I'm still nursing.  I hope to nurse at least the first year and the thought of not getting a massage for a whole year after my body has gone through all of this just sounds so depressing.  Any experience with this?

[VeganCupcake]

My massage therapist suggested using a rolled-up hand towel between my boobs. She gave me a couple and I just kind of experimented with what size I needed and the placement and stuff. I also told her I was pretty leaky, and she said it didn't matter. You could put a towel or a burp cloth under your nipples, as well, but they also change the sheets and stuff anyway between clients.

You could wear a bra if you wanted to--generally you can undress to your level of comfort, so it's totally up to you. But you're right, it would be a better massage if you weren't wearing one.

[rducky]

I had a massage last week (1 week postpartum). There was no way I could lie on my breasts My therapist positioned me as if I was still pregnant. On my side with pillows between legs and a pillow to support my upper body. I used receiving blankets to absorb the milk leakage.

It was so worth it! I hope you go for a massage too!

[PatioGardener]

The first time I lay only on my back and the massage therapist worked on my neck and shoulders, my arms and hands (my thumbs were so sore!) and my feet. I kept my breasts covered with nursing pads and a nursing tank (I slipped the shoulder straps down).

Next time she positioned me like I was still pregnant, as a PP said.

Getting there was a lot of work, but it was SOOOOOOOOOOOO worth it! Hope you can have one asap and enjoy!