Pregnancy & Post Natal Care
Being pregnant is a unique and powerful life experience. It is a time which can, and should be enjoyed. During pregnancy the body undergoes immense physical, hormonal and emotional changes.
These changes occur over a relatively short space of time, and the body has to continually adapt to accommodate these changes. Up to 10 kilograms in weight of baby, placenta and fluids may be carried, putting a fair amount of physical strain on the body.
Many pregnant women find manual treatment very helpful throughout their pregnancy for pain reduction and preparation for labour. Helping to reduce back, hip or leg pain.
A woman's body is constantly changing during pregnancy. The effects of hormonal softening of ligaments, the position of the growing baby, postural changes and increases in weight can put additional pressure on joints and muscles of the spine or pelvis. Treatment can help to alleviate these stresses, and by ensuring that the movement of the pelvic girdle is balanced it can aid the process of labour and delivery.
Even before pregnancy, your therapist can evaluate your body, paying particular attention to the spine and pelvis, to ensure that there are no pre-existing or underlying restrictions, which may cause problems further into the pregnancy. We would recommend a pre-conception osteopathic check up to help make sure your body will cope with the changes of pregnancy and help it to adapt as smoothly as possible
After delivery, postnatal check-ups help to facilitate the body's recovery after the normal stresses of birth. Post-natal treatment is especially beneficial if you have had a difficult / protracted labour, epidural or caesarean section.
Treatment can also assist with any postural changes and structural problems such as upper back or neck pain, which can be associated with feeding or carrying a growing infant.
The job of caring for a new baby can place enormous strain on the back. Things like breast feeding positions, lifting car seat and prams, carrying your baby and reaching over the cot can put extra strain on your back.
A mother's pelvis is vulnerable to lasting strains from the forces involved in giving birth, particularly if it was a difficult or lengthy delivery. An osteopathic check-up can help you to recover from the strains of birth as well as the early post-natal weeks. It can also help to prevent long term problems of the back, neck and pelvis.
Unresolved childbirth stresses in the mother can contribute not only to ongoing back problems, but also to difficulties with menstruation, stress incontinence, and bowel problems such as constipation.
Breastfeeding can be a wonderful and rewarding experience for mum and baby, but the physical demands of feeding and poor feeding postures can lead to pain and discomfort. Osteopathic care can help your body cope with feeding postures to minimise spinal discomfort by using gentle treatments.
Overall, postnatal treatment can help with long term preventative care, allowing you to relax and enjoy your new baby.
For more information on treatment during pregnancy, please contact Amanda on 07530 403382 or use our Contact Form.
tel: 01827 946147
email: amanda@backtohealthltd.co.uk
70 Main Road, Sheepy Magna, Atherstone, CV93QU