81: Birth Support that Works: How Partners Can Use Massage for Comfort and Connection - with Ana Munoz Artwork

The Mindful Womb Podcast

The Mindful Womb podcast will help you apply the principles of mindfulness, science, and the sacred womb so you can feel less stressed and easily welcome your changing reality (and body) through life’s transitions like conception, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and parenthood.

Host Clara O’Rourke (she/her), certified doula and childbirth educator, brings you actionable strategies, mindfulness tips, pregnancy and birth facts, authentic truths, and inspirational stories that can help you harness your inner power, embrace personal growth, and become the best version of yourself as you grow your family.

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The Mindful Womb Podcast

81: Birth Support that Works: How Partners Can Use Massage for Comfort and Connection - with Ana Munoz

March 18, 2025 • Clara O'Rourke - Clear Light Birth

In this episode we’re diving into the transformative role that partners can play during labor—through the power of touch and massage. Many partners want to help but aren’t sure how. That’s where intentional touch comes in.

I’m joined by Anna Muñoz, a skilled massage therapist and hypnotherapist with over a decade of experience in the birth world. Together, we’ll explore:

✨ How massage supports the release of oxytocin, the key hormone for labor progression and emotional bonding
✨ Simple yet effective massage techniques for labor support, including hip squeezes, counterpressure, and slow, grounding touch
✨ Ways to integrate massage into hospital, home, and birth center settings
✨ The truth about massage and labor induction—what’s fact and what’s myth

Partners, this episode is for you! Whether you’re preparing for your first birth or looking to deepen your connection, you’ll walk away with practical tools to confidently support your loved one in labor.

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

The Prenatal Massage Blueprint – A step-by-step guide for partners to master hands-on comfort techniques through prenatal and labor massage
Connect with Ana on Instagram @mindandbodymotherhood or on her website at www.mindandbodymotherhood.com/
Check out the blog post for this episode HERE

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice.