Ultimate, Pregnancy, Birth and Parenting Guide. Lilian Paramor

massage – rub firmly in a circular motion over her hip while Mom lies on her side.

      •Abdominal touch – two tried and tested techniques are clockwise, very gentle massage of the whole belly (see Photo 3) and running finger “raindrops” all over her abdomen.

      •Hand and foot massage – “walk” your thumb or index finger along every section of her hands and feet, not lingering long on sensitive areas. Gently stretch and wiggle her toes and fingers. End off by gently stroking her hands and feet towards the tips of her fingers and toes.

      PHOTO 1: Rub firmly over the sacrum in circles with the heel of your hand.

      PHOTO 2: Press your fist firmly over the sacrum or painful area while Mom pushes back against you.

      PHOTO 3: Rub gently in a clockwise motion.

      Special touch tip

      If your pregnancy is weighing heavily in your pelvis and it feels as if a nerve is being pinched, try this: Lean against your partner’s abdomen and rest your head against his shoulder. Your partner should then cup your “bump” with his hands (taking care to not interlace his fingers too tightly or dig into your abdomen with his fingertips) and then slightly lift it up. You’ll experience instant relief.