Authors (including presenting author) :
Dorothy Taylor, C W Ng, Y C Kam, Y M Chan
Affiliation :
Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Introduction :
Infant massage is recognized as beneficial to both infants and parents in many ways. It is believed to alleviate parental stress, strengthen mother-infant interactions, promote bonding and secure attachment, better weight gain and relaxation among infants. Besides, the touch helps to nurture babies and parents,
calm down the nervous system and share pleasant experiences.
Baby massage programme (hybrid mode) was started in late 2022. Theory classes, followed by an online practical class (through zoom) and a face-to-face practical class on the demonstration of massage technique were included in the programme.
Objectives :
To promote bonding between parents and the baby.
To promote continuity of care together with strengthening parent-infant interaction and alleviate parental stress.
Methodology :
20 clients were included in each class. Pregnant women with gestation >28 weeks would be invited to join the infant massage class. Three theory classes will be given to these women during their antenatal period, practical sessions through zoom and face-to-face class will be carried out after their deliveries in our hospital. A questionnaire will be given to the clients after the completion of the face-to-face practical session.
Result & Outcome :
Parents who participate in the massage programme showed interest in performing massage to their babies. They learnt about the advantages of performing massage to their babies, communicated with their little ones and understood the needs of their babies. More importantly, the parents gained confidence in baby care.
After going through the infant massage course, the parents find these ‘Touch’ improve their bonding with their babies, and they learn more about their little ones as well. Midwives also gain satisfaction from leading the parents through the baby massage course.
More than supporting women through their pregnancies, the labour process and postpartum period, midwives walk with women and their families towards early parenthood with the model of continuity of care. These warm touches through infant massage showed our love and care to the little ones and the family, as well as an essential element to the health and development among the babies.
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