Pregnancy

The normal changes during pregnancy put different strains and stress on your body.

Research has shown that the postural and hormonal changes are associated with: Back pain, indigestion/heartburn and abdominal pain, Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD), varicose veins and other circulatory problems.

If you already have an osteopathic lesion (particularly in the low back and pelvis) the normal strains and stresses of pregnancy may make it worse and lead to further complications and problems during labour.

Benefits of osteopathic check up

If you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy an osteopathic check up can identify any potential problems which would benefit from osteopathic treatment.

During your pregnancy regular osteopathic check ups and treatment can:

• Help your body adjust to the normal changes in posture and hormones thus preventing potential problems.

• Help prepare the pelvis and body for the birthing process.

• Help train you and your partner to use natural pain reliep techniques and birthing positions/stretches.

If you are experiencing a particular problem an osteopathic check up can identify any lifestyle or diet changes and the treatment that may reduce the symptoms or clear the problem completely.

After you have had your baby we recommend a "post-natal" osteopathic check up for both the mother and baby during the first 6 weeks. This means that any treatment needed will benefit from the effect of pregnancy hormones still circulating in your body.

Post Natal Check Up

Now that you have a baby, what's next?

The birthing process is a natural journey, which can be difficult for both mother and baby.

Interventions like epidural, inducement, forceps, c-sections etc. are becoming more common. While they may be necessary and indeed life saving they are associated with strains and stresses on both mother and baby which research has shown benefit from Osteopathic treatment.

Osteopathic experience shows that there are common problems which can be traced back to the difficulties in the birthing process. These can include:

For Mum

Back pain, fatigue, abdominal discomfort, urinary problems, mastitis, etc. In addition, problems may occur after C-section operations and episiotomy stitching which can cause difficulties for subsequent pregnancies. Evidence has shown that unresolved injuries can contribute to Post-natal Depression.

For Baby

While the baby's head is designed to be flexible to facilitate the birthing process strains often occur and are commonly associated with colic, reflux, ear and sinus problems, coughs, colds.

What is a Post-natal Check up?

It is an assessment of the effects of birth on both mother and child using a gentle approach. We recommend that a Post-natal check up should take place within the first six weeks after the baby is born.

Benefits

Post natal check-ups may identify any strains & stresses (osteopathic lesion) associated with your birth. Even if you and your baby have no symptoms, your health will benefit from having these osteopathic lesions treated. The treatment involved would be discussed and planned with you at the check up.