Women's Health

Osteopathy can assist many of the health issues that women face today, such as period pain, fibroids, cysts, fertility, pregnancy, overdue babies, caesarean recovery, mastitis, breast feeding problems and menopause. The conditions can usually be attributed to a change in the way the body moves and works (structure and function). Osteopaths aim to provide relief and restore normal structure and function where-ever possible. We do this by improving the condition and inter-relationship of muscles, ligaments, bones, blood and nerve supply; venous and lymph drainage.

Pregnancy

Women usually gain weight during pregnancy and go through major postural changes to accommodate the baby, commonly resulting in aches and pains. It can also be very exhausting to carry that extra weight around. Any woman with existing back pain or a history of strains or injury from past accidents or trauma, may find it difficult to accommodate to these changes, and may suffer more discomfort as a result.

A history of coccyx, pelvic or sacral bone trauma can limit the mobility of the pelvic joints (sacroiliac and symphisis pubis) as they move during labour, and thus limit the size of the pelvic outlet, possibly causing more difficulties during birth.

Osteopathy can ensure the mother’s pelvis and low back is structurally balanced, an important preparation for childbirth. Osteopathy can also improve the pregnant woman’s general health and well-being by ensuring the whole body is in balance and working efficiently. This consequently enables the new mum-to-be to enjoy her pregnancy, and improves the birth and recovery process.

We work closely with your midwife, specialist or GP.

New Mum

Caring for your new baby can be a physically and mentally demanding task, especially during the first few months. Your body has had to recover from the postural changes made during pregnancy, the effects of delivery, and to the caring of a wonderful, new addition.

Many new activities also put strain on the body, which may still be under the influence of relaxin. Relaxin keeps the ligaments lax, in turn causing your muscles to work harder. Reaching into a cot, poor nursing and breastfeeding positions, lifting and carrying your new baby place enormous strain on the low, mid and upper back, leading to aches, pains, and even mastitis.

Osteopathy can help to relieve the strains, improve breathing and rib fuction, and re-balance the body. This will ultimately improve nursing positions, breastfeeding and relaxation, to enable you to enjoy your new found motherhood.