The experience of giving birth can be filled with a mix of emotions, from tears and love to fear and gratitude, and sometimes even a bit of "OMG!" As you transition into parenthood, you embark on a journey of discovery while navigating your new life as a mother or father. However, amidst the chaos and joy of caring for your little one, self-care often takes a backseat or is entirely forgotten.
At The Osteopathic Pelvic Hub, we believe that postnatally is the perfect time to embrace the self-care message and prioritize your well-being. For postnatal mothers, we offer appointments with our women's health osteopaths. Here are four main reasons why we encourage you to put mama first and schedule an appointment:
1. Rapid Anatomical Changes
After giving birth, your entire body goes through significant anatomical changes, particularly in the anterior abdominal wall and pelvic floor, which form a major part of your core. Your sleep is disrupted, and you're constantly tired from taking care of your newborn. This, combined with the absence of a strong core, can place stress and strain on your muscles and joints. A postnatal osteopathic appointment can help align your body and ensure it moves correctly, reducing stress and facilitating healing.
2. Pelvic Floor Health
Pregnancy and vaginal birth put immense stress on your pelvic floor muscles. The stretching of these muscles during childbirth can take time to recover and heal. Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest in various symptoms, including incontinence, urgency and frequency of urination, constipation, or pelvic girdle pain. Seeking postnatal osteopathic care proactively can help address any issues before they become symptomatic. Our osteopaths have specialized training in pelvic floor assessment, retraining, and rehabilitation, including the use of Real Time Ultrasound for non-invasive diagnosis.
3. Diastasis Recti Abdominal (DRA) Abdominal Separation
DRA, a normal process during pregnancy, allows your body to accommodate your growing baby. However, if left untreated, it can persist even after 12 months postpartum. Our osteopaths will assess your ability to create tension in the linea alba (abdominal connective tissue) and provide exercises and guidance accordingly.
4. Addressing Pain
Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain can persist for some women even after giving birth. Breastfeeding, carrying, and settling your baby can lead to various new complaints, such as lower back and pelvis pain, neck pain, and headaches. Osteopathic treatment aims to relieve pain and discomfort, improve mobility, and support the body's natural healing process.
Our approach at The Osteopathic Pelvic Hub is holistic, considering your body as a whole and creating individualized treatment plans. We address areas of concern, movement patterns, postural and breathing patterns, and provide lifestyle advice to support your overall health and well-being. Our treatment includes physical therapy, lifestyle recommendations, and personalized rehabilitation programs, incorporating movement practices, breathing exercises, and pelvic floor exercises or relaxation techniques.
No matter how long it has been since you gave birth, we believe it's never too late to prioritize self-care and put mama first. Regardless of your postnatal concerns, we are here to support you and provide the care you need.
References
Moto P G, Pascoal A G, Carita A I, Bo K 2014 - prevalance and risk factors of diastasis recti abdominis from late pregnancy to 6 months postpartum, and relationship with lumbo-pelvic pain. Man Ther 2014
Coldron Y, Stokes M J, Newham D J, et al 2008 - postpartum characteristics of rectus abdominis on ultrasound imaging. Manual therapy 13: 112
Elden, H et al (2016). BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 17(1), 276.
Comments