Most Literature supports prenatal massage as an alternative method of pain relief. Literature has also shown that massage of the perineal area can decrease the incidence of lacerations.

Prenatal massage in the form of perineal massage can help to prevent or decrease the incidence of lacerations and episiotomies. Perineal massage is a process in which the woman should be lying in a semi-seated position against some pillows. While in this position, the woman or her loved one should dip their fingers into lubricant oil and gently rub it into the perineum paying special attention to the vaginal wall. Put the oil-covered fingers about 3 inches into the vagina and press downward toward the rectum. This movement will stretch the vaginal tissue, the muscles surrounding the vagina, and the skin of the perineum. In the beginning, there will be some "tightness" associated with this, but with time and effort the tissue will relax and stretch. Perineal massage should be done daily for at least five minutes beginning about four weeks before the expected date of birth.

If done correctly and for an appropriate amount of time, perineal massage is believed to decrease the incidence of tears in the perineum. In a research study involving 307 women, 269 women used perineal massage. Of these 269 women, 76 percent had an intact perineum, and of the 93 women that did not use massage, 50 percent had an intact perineum. This research study states “Prenatal massage is associated with less perineal laceration during delivery for women having their first child” (Brown, 2000, 474).

Getting massages while pregnant but before going into labor has many benefits on both the woman and the baby. “Change, even welcomed change, is stressful. The tension caused by stress, along with the physical changes of pregnancy, can sap your energy for coping day-to-day. A soothing massage can relieve physical and emotional tension, help you sleep better, and boost your energy”(http://medievalmaggie.tripod.com/justforthehealthofit/id10.html). Research has shown that “massage therapy facilitates weight gain in preterm infants, reduces stress hormones, alleviates depressive symptoms, reduces pain, improves immune function, and gives heightened awareness”(http://www.aboutmassage.com/). Massage can enable a woman to relax and have time for themselves. Prenatal massages are recommended to be done by a professional in order to get the most benefits; however, the woman’s partner can also perform a massage if following certain precautions.

Massage during labor is a great way to help with pain relief. “Giving birth is often a long and arduous process. The constant tensing of muscles leaves a mother exhausted and adds to stress. Certain massage techniques can reduce your discomfort and provide a revitalizing respite, relaxing you between contractions so you can gather strength for the next round. Learning a few simple techniques can be an excellent way for your partner to be involved in the birth process”(http://serenitymassage.ca/pregnancy-massage.htm). “Massage loosens tight muscles and calms the nervous system. It also increases circulation; bringing energy-producing nutrients to your cells and carrying away metabolic waste products that can make you feel listless. In a massage, you also become more aware of your body, which helps you recognize tension as it builds during the day enabling you to consciously release it” (http://medievalmaggie.tripod.com/justforthehealthofit/). Massage is a wonderful way to involve your partner while also benefiting your body and relieving labor pain.