What is postnatal massage (urut)?
Postnatal massage (urut) is a traditional Malay massage technique performed during the postpartum confinement period to help the uterus contract, restore circulation, and support physical recovery after childbirth.
Urut is a traditional postnatal massage practice that forms a core part of the confinement period (pantang) following childbirth. The massage uses firm, rhythmic hand pressure applied to the abdomen, back, and limbs to encourage the uterus to return to its pre-pregnancy size and to restore blood flow throughout the body after delivery.
The practice rests on the principle that stimulating circulation helps remove retained fluids and blood clots, reduces swelling, and eases muscle tension accumulated during pregnancy and labour. Sessions typically begin in the first week postpartum and continue through the confinement period, often 40 days or longer depending on family tradition.
A typical urut session lasts 45 minutes to an hour. The therapist applies warm oil to the skin and uses sustained pressure with the palms and fingers, focusing on specific areas thought to support healing. Many sessions include gentle abdominal massage to promote uterine involution (the process of the womb shrinking back), as well as work on the lower back and leg muscles.
Urut is distinct from Western postpartum physical therapy and is often combined with other confinement practices such as herbal baths and dietary protocols. Many postnatal care centres in Kuala Lumpur offer urut as part of their confinement packages, delivered by trained massage therapists familiar with postpartum anatomy and recovery needs.