Frequently Asked Questions
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
When can I start lymphatic drainage massage postpartum?
Guidelines on timing can be somewhat controversial and may vary depending on the provider/location. In my practice, I recommend that most women can safely begin gentle lymphatic drainage about 24 hours after a vaginal birth if there are no complications. For those recovering from a C-section, I suggest waiting at least 72 hours post-op with medical clearance, and avoiding the incision area until healing progresses.
What are the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage?
This gentle technique can help reduce swelling, support healing, promote relaxation, and improve circulation. Many women find it eases the heaviness and discomfort that can come with postpartum fluid retention.
Are there any situations where lymphatic drainage massage is not safe?
Yes. Lymphatic drainage massage is not recommended in cases of acute infection, untreated cancer, deep vein thrombosis, fever, or severe heart or kidney conditions. If you have a medical condition or are unsure, it’s best to consult your doctor or midwife before starting, to ensure it’s safe and to determine the right time to begin.
Kinesio Taping in Pregnancy & Postpartum
Can kinesio taping be used during pregnancy?
Yes. Kinesio taping can be safely used during pregnancy to provide gentle support for the growing belly, lower back, and hips. Many women find it helps reduce discomfort from round ligament pain, pelvic heaviness, or back strain. Unlike restrictive belly bands, taping allows for full movement while still offering targeted support. It may also encourage better posture and help distribute weight more evenly as your body changes.
What is postpartum belly taping?
After birth, kinesio taping can be used to gently support the abdominal wall, core, and lower back as your body recovers. It’s a non-restrictive option that encourages healing, improves posture, and adds comfort during daily activities. Postpartum taping may also assist with core engagement and support recovery from diastasis recti, helping you feel more stable as you transition back into movement.
Q: When can I start postpartum taping?
Recommendations for belly taping also vary, and some providers follow slightly different guidelines. In my practice, I suggest that women may begin anytime after 24 hours following a vaginal birth without complications, and after 72 hours for a C-section with medical clearance. Taping is always done gently and adapted to your stage of recovery.
How long should I continue postpartum taping?
Most women benefit from belly taping for the first 6–8 weeks postpartum, when core and back support are especially helpful. Some continue beyond this period, particularly if they are working on diastasis recti recovery or need extra support during daily activities. The length of time depends on your comfort, healing progress, and goals — I’ll guide you in adjusting or discontinuing taping as your body regains strength.
How long does kinesio taping last?
Each application of kinesio tape usually lasts 3–5 days, depending on your skin type and activity level. It’s designed to be water-resistant, so you can shower with it on. The tape will naturally begin to loosen and peel at the edges when it’s time to remove or reapply. If you experience any irritation, it should be removed right away.
How do I remove the kinesio tape?
The easiest way to remove the tape is to soak it in oil (such as olive, coconut, or baby oil) for about 10 minutes. Then, gently hold the skin with one hand while slowly peeling the tape back with the other. This helps protect your skin and makes removal more comfortable.
I bought The Postpartum Bundle package but I don’t have medical clearance for core taping after a C-section yet. What happens then?
That’s absolutely fine. If core taping isn’t appropriate yet, I’ll adjust your visit to focus on what’s most supportive in your recovery. Instead of taping, you’ll receive a guided session on safe recovery practices — including incision care, core-protective movement strategies, guidance on support wear, and practical tips for healing comfortably at home. Once you have clearance, we can introduce taping at a later visit if desired.
Are there any situations where kinesio taping should not be used?
Yes. Kinesio taping is not recommended in cases of acute infection, open wounds, deep vein thrombosis, skin cancer, allergy to acrylic adhesive, diabetes, or erysipelas. If you are unsure whether taping is safe for you, please consult your healthcare provider first.
Postpartum Nursing Care
What is included in a postpartum nursing check?
A postpartum nursing check provides holistic support for both mother and baby. This visit includes a full maternal assessment (bleeding, healing, vital signs), a newborn check (weight, feeding, overall well-being), breastfeeding guidance, and an emotional/mental health screening. I also share resources tailored to your needs and leave plenty of time to answer any questions you may have.
Is postpartum nursing care only for vaginal births?
No — C-section clients benefit greatly as well. A nursing check can be booked within the first week of coming home to review recovery, incision care, pain management strategies, and newborn feeding. If your incision was closed with staples, you can also book for day 7 to have your staples removed and your incision assessed in the comfort of your home — without the need to return to your OB’s office.
How is a postpartum nursing visit different from what my midwife or doctor provides?
My visits are longer, holistic, and done in the comfort of your home. I provide unrushed time to talk through your birth experience, address concerns, and offer hands-on support that complements (not replaces) your primary care team.
General Questions
Where do you provide services?
All services are offered in your home if you are within my service area. Click here to check if I service your area.
Do you offer virtual services?
Yes. I offer prenatal consultations in person and virtually where we discuss your birth preferences, review what to expect, explore your options, and go over key questions to ask your provider. Together, we’ll create a personalized birth preferences plan that you can bring with you to share with your care team.
Do you bring supplies for services like taping and weighing babies?
Yes. I provide all the necessary supplies, including kinesio tape, massage oil, a newborn scale (if weighing is part of your care), and even a massage table when required. This way, you can simply focus on your recovery and your baby while I bring everything to you.
Do you offer packages or bundles?
Yes. I offer structured options that may include either multiple sessions of the same service (multipacks) or a combination of different services. These are designed to support continuity of care and make planning your pregnancy and postpartum support more straightforward. You can find details on my Services page.
Can a support person or family member be present during the visit?
Absolutely. Your comfort is my priority. If you’d like someone present, they’re welcome to join us during the session.
How much space do I need for a home visit?
Choose a comfortable, quiet space in your home where you feel at ease. For lymphatic drainage massage, please allow enough room for a massage table to be set up and for me to move around it freely. A living room, bedroom, or any uncluttered space will usually work well.
There is no need to tidy or prepare your home. I come to meet you where you’re at, and your comfort is always the priority.
What if my baby cries or needs to feed during a session?
That is completely normal and always welcome. Your baby’s needs come first, and we can pause at any time for feeding, soothing, or comforting.
For postpartum visits, I actually encourage having your baby nearby so we can integrate feeding support if needed. If you’re receiving a massage or taping service, we’ll adjust the session around your baby’s rhythms — whether that means pausing, repositioning, or continuing while you feed.