For Pregnant and Postnatal Women
A woman’s body changes during pregnancy. Some of those changes include the softening of ligaments due to the hormone Relaxin and weight gain leading to changes in posture and centre of gravity. This postural adaptation can lead to additional pressure on joints in various parts of the body, including the spine and pelvis.
Osteopathy may help to relieve the stresses and strains on your body during pregnancy and after birth using the principle that healthy balance and function of the musculoskeletal framework of the body is essential to whole body health. Techniques used include gentle joint mobilisations, soft tissue massage and stretches. Often exercises are prescribed as part of the management programme.
Both Janine and Hannah are able to create a treatment plan to address complex and diverse Women’s Health needs specifically.
Pregnancy and Postnatal Massage Therapy
For a lighter more ‘relaxation’ focussed treatment you could opt for Massage Therapy instead. Rachel Huffman our Massage Therapist offers Pregnancy and Postnatal Massage Therapy here at Abshot Osteopathy. Rachel who is also an experienced Doula, antenatal educator and trauma informed birth coach can offer a very gentle 60 min session to help relax your mind and body with her deeply personalised approach.
Key Benefits of Pregnancy Massage
- Pain Relief: Alleviates muscular tension in the lower back, hips, and neck caused by postural changes.
- Reduced Swelling: Enhances lymphatic drainage to decrease edema in legs, feet, and ankles.
- Emotional Well-being: Lowers stress hormones, reduces anxiety, and boosts mood by releasing endorphins.
- Better Sleep: Relaxes the nervous system, helping to combat insomnia and fatigue.
- Healthier Pregnancy: Regular sessions can improve blood flow to the placenta and support fetal development.
Women’s Health
From onset of periods to pregnancy, menopause and beyond, Women’s Health Osteopathy addresses the specific needs of optimising health and wellbeing. Using Osteopathic principles and applying them to the female pelvis and body as a whole, understanding hormonal influences, mechanical strains, dietary and nutritional impact, and antenatal health, your pregnancy and birth history including postpartum recovery.