Pregnancy is a remarkable journey filled with joy and anticipation. However, it can also bring a range of physical discomforts and challenges as a woman's body undergoes significant changes. Osteopathy, a holistic approach to healthcare, offers numerous evidence-based benefits for pregnant women. In this blog post, we'll explore how osteopathy can provide relief and support during pregnancy.

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a healthcare discipline that focuses on the musculoskeletal system and how it influences overall health. Osteopaths, use manual techniques to diagnose, treat, and prevent various conditions by improving the body's natural ability to heal itself. This approach is gentle, non-invasive, and has been increasingly recognised as beneficial during pregnancy.

Pain Relief and Comfort

Pregnancy often comes with a myriad of discomforts, including back pain, pelvic pain, and sciatica to name a few. Osteopathic treatment can be highly effective in relieving these discomforts. Evidence suggests that it can help alleviate musculoskeletal pain by improving joint mobility, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing blood flow to the affected areas. By doing so, osteopathy can promote a sense of comfort and well-being for expectant mothers. Here's a list of common conditions during pregnancy that Osteopathy can help with:

• Sacro-illiac Joint Strain
• Symphysis Pubis Disorder (SPD)
• Sciatica
• Low-Back Pain
• Pelvic Pain
• Facet Irritation (Lumbar Spine)
• Postural Issues
• Hip Pain
• Muscular Strains/Spasms

Posture, 'Alignment' and Mobility

As a pregnancy progresses, the body's centre of gravity shifts, which can lead to changes in posture and alignment. This shift often places extra strain on the lower back, hips, and pelvis. Osteopathy can help pregnant women maintain better posture and alignment, as well as improve joint mobility. Due to the new mechanical loads on the body during pregnancy, it is common for certain joints to be put under increase strain. By addressing any musculoskeletal imbalances, an osteopath can relieve strain and help women adapt to their changing body, reducing the risk of pain and discomfort.

Stress Reduction

Pregnancy can be an emotionally and physically demanding time, and stress levels can rise. This is especially true if you are also in pain. Osteopathy is known for its relaxing and pain-reducing effects. Manual techniques employed by osteopaths promote relaxation, improve joint function, and can enhance the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers and mood elevators. As a result, pregnant women often experience reduced stress levels and improved emotional well-being as their pain improves.

Preparation for Labour and Delivery

Preparing the body for labour and delivery is one of the most crucial aspects of pregnancy. Unfortunately, we cannot make the pain associated with the actual labour disappear. What we can do however, is address the conditions causing you pain from a mechanical origin, such as low-back pain, sciatica and so on. By ensuring that the musculoskeletal system is balanced and functioning optimally, osteopathy can contribute to a smoother, less painful labour experience and remove any additional causes for pain on top of the labour.

Pelvic Floor Health

The health of the pelvic floor is a significant concern for pregnant women. Osteopaths are trained to address issues related to the pelvic floor and prescribe exercises to strengthen the area. Exercises can help strengthen and balance the muscles in the pelvic region, providing expectant mothers with better control and comfort during pregnancy and postpartum.

Evidence-Based Research

The benefits of osteopathy during pregnancy are not merely anecdotal; there is a growing body of evidence to support its effectiveness. Research studies have shown that osteopathic treatment can significantly reduce pain and discomfort in pregnant women, improve their overall quality of life, and positively impact the birthing process. The evidence is particularly strong in cases of musculoskeletal pain, such as lower back pain and pelvic girdle pain.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is a unique and transformative experience for women, but it can also come with various physical challenges. Osteopathy offers a holistic, evidence-based approach to enhancing the well-being of pregnant women. Through pain relief, osteopathy plays a crucial role in supporting expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy journey.

If you're expecting and looking for a safe, non-invasive, and effective way to address the physical discomforts associated with pregnancy, consider consulting with an osteopath. Their expertise and holistic approach can help you enjoy a more comfortable and joyful pregnancy experience.

References

The role of osteopathic care in Gynaecology and Obstetrics: An updated systematic review (2022) N Ruffini et al

American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology (2010) Osteopathic manipulative treatment of back pain and related symptoms during pregnancy: a randomized controlled trial. J C Licciardone et al.

American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology (2015) Pregnancy research on osteopathic manipulation optimizing treatment effects: The promote study A randomized controlled trial. K L Hensel et al