Uterine Massage- Benefits and Technique – Aunty Jane

Uterine massage plays a critical role in post-abortion care, whether after a medical or surgical abortion. It is used to support uterine recovery, promote complete expulsion of pregnancy tissue, and reduce the risk of complications such as hemorrhage or retained products of conception. This article explores the benefits of uterine massage following abortion, the physiological mechanisms involved, and safe techniques for self-care or professional application.

Uterine Massage Techniques for Post-Abortion Care

1. Abdominal Uterine Massage

✔️ Used for: Supporting uterine contractions, reducing retained tissue, and preventing excessive bleeding.

How to Perform:

Lie on your back or sit on the toilet in a comfortable position.
Place one hand just above the pubic bone and apply gentle pressure.
Use circular, clockwise movements, massaging upward toward the navel.
Gradually apply slightly deeper pressure but remain within comfort limits.
Continue for 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times a day, as needed.

✅ Best Time to Perform:

After taking misoprostol (within the first 24-48 hours of a medical abortion).
After a surgical abortion, starting the day after the procedure to support recovery.

Benefits of Uterine Massage After Abortion

1. Promotes Complete Uterine Emptying

✔️ Encourages expulsion of remaining pregnancy tissue

After a medical abortion (abortion pills), the uterus contracts to expel pregnancy tissue, but in some cases, small remnants may remain.
Uterine massage stimulates blood flow and muscular contractions, helping the uterus empty fully, reducing the risk of retained products of conception (RPOC).

✔️ Supports the effectiveness of medical abortion

Some studies suggest that uterine massage can complement misoprostol use in medical abortion, improving tissue clearance and reducing the need for surgical intervention.

2. Reduces Pain and Cramping

✔️ ****Eases prostaglandin-induced cramps

Misoprostol (abortion pill) causes strong uterine contractions as part of the abortion process.
Massage can help modulate pain perception by stimulating blood circulation and relaxing the surrounding muscles.

✔️ May improve comfort in post-abortion recovery

For individuals who experience prolonged cramping after a surgical abortion, gentle uterine massage can provide relief from muscular tension and reduce discomfort.

When to Avoid Uterine Massage After Abortion

If you have a suspected infection or fever.
If you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain (which may indicate complications).
If you have an IUD in place.
If a healthcare provider advises against it based on individual medical factors.

Final Thoughts

Uterine massage is a safe, effective, and accessible practice that can support post-abortion recovery by enhancing uterine contractions & reducing bleeding.

For those who experience ongoing symptoms, persistent pain, or concerns about incomplete abortion, seeking medical follow-up is essential.

The information provided on this website by Aunty Jane in any format or medium, are for general information purposes only and are not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. The information made available by Aunty Jane do not provide personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. To the extent permitted by law, Aunty Jane disclaims all liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information provided. For specific medical concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Begley, C. M., Gyte, G. M., Devane, D., McGuire, W., Weeks, A., & Biesty, L. M. (2019). Active versus expectant management for women in the third stage of labour. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2(CD007412). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD007412.pub5
Chen, M. J., Creinin, M. D., & Mifepristone. (2019). Mifepristone with buccal misoprostol for medical abortion: A systematic review. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 133(4), 722–731. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0000000000003143
World Health Organization. (2022). Abortion care guideline. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240039483
Zahra, P., Mostafa, A., & Nazanin, K. (2020). The effect of abdominal massage on primary dysmenorrhea: A randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 39, 101154. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2020.101154