Osteopathy during Pregnancy The Ups and Downs Pregnancy can be wonderful but causes many body changes and can lead to a lot of inconveniences. A visit to an osteopath does not replace a medical consultation, but it can help relieve several common problems during pregnancy. Some issues are lower back pain, sciatica, gastric reflux, constipation, reduced circulation, and sleep disorders. These symptoms are common for many pregnant women who tend to accept these inconveniences, but osteopathy can help keep you comfortable and enjoy rather than endure! When to see an osteopath? Expectant mothers can consult an osteopath from the first months of pregnancy. Throughout the pregnancy, the uterus becomes larger, and the ligaments begin to tighten. Sometimes, issues don’t occur until the second trimester but getting an early check-up can help prevent them. Depending on your symptoms and the examination, your osteopath will tell you whether it is better to come back to see them or not. Remember an osteopathic session does not replace your doctor and midwife appointments. What about the baby? Osteopathy has no direct impact on the baby and always acts without pressure on the baby. The osteopath works on structures such as bones and ligaments. When a baby is breech, for instance, the osteopath will not try to turn it. The osteopath’s job is to balance your body by freeing up the pelvis and diaphragm. The baby then has more room and can turn around freely if possible. How to choose an osteopath Some osteopaths specialise in osteopathic treatment for babies and pregnant women. They are particularly experienced and have a special interest in working with expectant mothers. Not all osteopaths have trained to work in this field. The easiest way is to seek advice from your usual osteopath or one of our reception team. If you have not consulted an osteopath before, your midwife, doctor or your gynaecologist may be able to recommend someone. Word of mouth is often the best option as osteopathy is fast becoming popular with expectant mothers. Of course, you can call our clinic and we will be able to advise a suitable practitioner. Meet the Team What about after childbirth? Osteopathy is also helpful after childbirth, whether the birth took place with or without medical interventions, such as an episiotomy, an epidural, forceps, or a caesarean. No matter how things went during birth, the tissues of the pregnant woman have undergone a certain level of stress. It is preferable to address issues without delay to avoid possible problems and boost recovery. Consult an osteopath during your pregnancy for less pain, better sleep and a more flexible pelvis, facilitating smoother labour, delivery and postpartum recovery. To find out more or to book an appointment call our reception, or book online using the link below. Book Online
