The Benefits of Infant Massage

Touch is one of the earliest senses to develop in newborns—and it’s also one of the most powerful. One increasingly popular way parents are harnessing the power of nurturing touch is through infant massage. Far more than just a sweet bonding ritual, baby massage offers a wide range of physical, emotional, and developmental benefits—for both baby and caregiver.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the many advantages of baby massage, how to do it safely, and what guidance the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers to help parents make informed, gentle choices for their babies.

What Is Baby Massage?

Infant massage involves the gentle, rhythmic stroking of your baby’s body using your hands, often combined with soft talking or humming. Parents may use baby-safe oils or lotions to help their hands glide more easily across baby’s skin. These sessions are typically done in a warm, quiet, and calm environment to help your baby feel safe and relaxed.

Benefits of Baby Massage

1. Promotes Bonding and Emotional Security

One of the most important aspects of baby massage is its ability to deepen the parent-infant bond. Through eye contact, skin-to-skin touch, and gentle voice interaction, parents can build trust and connection with their baby. This can be especially beneficial for non-birthing parents or caregivers seeking to establish a strong emotional connection.

2. Supports Healthy Sleep Patterns

Research has shown that regular baby massage can help improve sleep patterns by reducing stress hormones like cortisol and increasing calming hormones like serotonin and melatonin. Many parents report that a soothing massage before bedtime helps their baby fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.

3. Improves Digestion and Relieves Gas or Colic

Certain massage techniques applied to the abdomen can help stimulate digestion and relieve common newborn discomforts like gas and constipation. Gentle tummy strokes may also reduce the symptoms of colic, offering much-needed relief to both baby and parent.

4. Encourages Physical Development

Massage helps stimulate the circulatory and nervous systems, contributing to your baby’s overall physical development. It can also promote better muscle tone, flexibility, and body awareness—laying the foundation for future motor skills.

5. Reduces Stress and Soothes Fussiness

Touch is incredibly regulating for babies. A calm, rhythmic massage can lower your baby's stress levels, helping to calm crying, reduce irritability, and support emotional regulation. Over time, massage may help babies become more responsive to touch and less sensitive to stress.

AAP Recommendations and Safety Guidelines

While the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) supports the benefits of touch and baby massage, they also stress the importance of safe, age-appropriate, and respectful techniques.

Here are a few safety tips based on AAP recommendations and expert best practices:

• Wait for cues. Massage should only be done when the baby is awake, calm, and receptive. Avoid trying to massage a fussy or overstimulated baby.
• Use gentle pressure. Always use soft, slow strokes—never deep pressure or squeezing. Your baby’s skin and bones are still developing.
• Avoid the fontanel. Never press on the soft spot at the top of your baby’s head.
• Be mindful of oils. If using massage oil, choose a baby-safe, unscented option. Always test a small patch of skin first to check for allergic reactions.
• Watch for feedback. Babies communicate through body language. If your baby turns away, stiffens, or cries, stop the massage and try again another time.
• Avoid massage immediately after feeding. Give at least 30–45 minutes post-feeding to prevent discomfort or spitting up.

The AAP also encourages parents to learn massage techniques from certified infant massage instructors, especially if their baby has special health needs or was born prematurely.

When to Start and How Often

Most pediatricians recommend starting infant massage once your baby is about 1–2 weeks old and the umbilical cord has healed. Begin with short, 5–10 minute sessions and increase gradually as your baby gets used to the process. Many families find that a daily or every-other-day massage works well as part of their bedtime or wind-down routine.

Final Thoughts

Baby massage is a beautiful, time-honored practice that nurtures connection, boosts development, and promotes relaxation—for both parent and child. When done safely and respectfully, it can be a soothing and joyful part of your daily routine.

As always, if you have any concerns or questions about incorporating baby massage into your routine, consult with your pediatrician or a certified infant massage therapist.

Looking for more ways to support your baby’s development? Check out our newborn care courses or reach out to a trusted professional for guidance. Your nurturing touch matters—and it’s one of the most powerful tools you have.