Pregnancy And Post Natal Care

We understand that pregnancy can bring about various physical discomforts for women, and we are here to provide the professional and compassionate care that you deserve.  We specialise in treating pregnant patients, using gentle and safe osteopathic techniques that have proven beneficial in addressing these concerns.

Is Osteopathy Safe During Pregnancy?

Osteopathic treatment is considered a safe and drug-free approach used to help ease aches and pain in pregnant women. Osteopathic treatments are specifically designed to be gentle, non-invasive, and tailored to the unique needs and changes that occur in a woman’s body during this time.

How Osteopathy Can Benefit Pregnant Women?

Osteopathy can offer several benefits to pregnant women by addressing the musculoskeletal changes and discomfort that commonly occur during pregnancy. Here are some ways in which osteopathy can benefit pregnant women:

1. Pain relief: As pregnancy progresses, women often experience musculoskeletal discomfort, particularly in the lower back, hips, and pelvis. Osteopathic techniques, such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, and gentle stretching, can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.
2. Pelvic alignment: The body undergoes various hormonal and structural changes during pregnancy to accommodate the growing fetus. Osteopathy can help optimise pelvic alignment, reducing the strain on ligaments and muscles and creating an environment that supports a more comfortable pregnancy and labor.
3. Preparation for labor: Osteopathic treatment can focus on preparing the body for labor and delivery. By addressing any restrictions or imbalances in the pelvis and surrounding structures, osteopathy may facilitate a much easier birth.
4. Stress and anxiety reduction: Pregnancy can bring about emotional and psychological challenges. Osteopathic treatment incorporates a holistic approach, considering the interconnectedness of the body and mind. Gentle techniques and hands-on contact may help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being.
5. Postpartum recovery: Osteopathy can also be beneficial during the postpartum period. The body undergoes significant changes after childbirth, and osteopathic treatment can help restore alignment, relieve tension, and support the body’s recovery process.

Common Complaints During Pregnancy

According to research, approximately 50% of pregnant women encounter back pain, and 30% suffer from pelvic pain at some stage during their pregnancy. It is important to recognise that this discomfort should not be dismissed as typical of being pregnant. Fortunately, there are viable treatment options, such as osteopathy, that can offer relief and assistance to expectant mothers.

During pregnancy, women can suffer many other ailments which are suitable for osteopathic treatment, including;

• Pubic symphysis diastasis (PSD)
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Headaches
• Rib pain
• Diaphragm pain & difficulty breathing
• Carpal Tunnel
• Plantar fasciitis
• Sciatica 
• Round Ligament Pain

During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes significant postural changes, which can have a profound effect on the daily functioning of the pregnant patient.  Osteopathy can help support pregnant women to better cope with these changes both during and after pregnancy.

What Techniques Are Used During Treatment?

Gentle osteopathic techniques are utilised during treatment. They involve massage, myofascial stretching, manipulation, and articulation of joints. Treatment aims to ensure that the pelvic bones and muscles are aligned and balanced, providing optimum conditions for positioning, descent, and passage of the baby through the birth canal during delivery. We regularly teach breathing techniques, stretches, and exercises you can do throughout your pregnancy to help with the delivery and encourage overall health and well-being.

Do I Need a Referral to See An Osteopath?

You do not need a referral to see an Osteopath. However, your midwife may suggest osteopathic treatment, depending on your ailment.

Postpartum Osteopathy-How Can An Osteopath Help Me?

An osteopath can provide valuable support and assistance to women after giving birth. Here are five ways in which an osteopath can help:

1. Pelvic floor rehabilitation: Osteopaths can help with pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation, which is crucial after childbirth. They can provide exercises and techniques to strengthen and restore the pelvic floor muscles, aiding in postpartum recovery.
2. Addressing musculoskeletal issues: Pregnancy and childbirth can cause musculoskeletal imbalances and strain on the body. An osteopath can identify and treat issues such as back pain, neck pain, and joint discomfort that may have developed during or after pregnancy.
3. Restoring alignment and mobility: Osteopathic treatment can help realign the body and restore optimal joint mobility, which may have been affected during pregnancy or childbirth. This can alleviate pain, improve posture, and enhance overall physical well-being.
4. Managing breastfeeding-related issues: Osteopaths can provide assistance with breastfeeding-related concerns. They can address musculoskeletal issues such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, and sore thumbs (Mommy thumb) that may impact breastfeeding.
5. Supporting overall well-being: Osteopathic treatment aims to support the body’s natural healing processes and promote overall well-being. Osteopaths can provide guidance on postpartum exercises, lifestyle modifications, and self-care practices to enhance recovery and promote a healthy transition into motherhood.

Whether you’re seeking relief from pregnancy-related pain and discomfort, postpartum recovery support, or musculoskeletal issues, our team is here to help!

Book an appointment with one of our highly skilled and experienced osteopaths today! Call us on 027 755 5700.