Osteopathy is a type of form of healthcare that is becoming increasingly popular among pregnant women. Osteopathy is based on the idea that the body has the natural ability to heal itself, and it involves manipulating the body’s muscles, ligaments, and joints to help restore balance and promote healing. It has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including pain, headaches, and digestive problems, and it can be particularly beneficial for pregnant women. This article will discuss the benefits of osteopathy for pregnancy, as well as the potential risks and precautions to consider.
Benefits of osteopathy for pregnancy
One of the main benefits of osteopathy for pregnant women is that it can help reduce pain and discomfort. Osteopathy can be used to relieve back pain, sciatica, and other musculoskeletal issues that are common during pregnancy. It can also help reduce fatigue, the dreaded morning sickness, and reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes.
Osteopathy can also be used to improve circulation, which can help reduce the risk of developing varicose veins and other circulatory issues during pregnancy. The techniques used in osteopathy can also help reduce stress and improve sleep quality, which can benefit both mother and baby.
In addition to its physical benefits, osteopathy can also benefit pregnant women emotionally. Osteopathy can help reduce anxiety and depression, which is especially important during pregnancy. It can also help improve self-confidence and feelings of well-being. As pregnancy can be a stressful time for many women, osteopathy can be a great way to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
Risk Considerations
It is important to note that there are some risks and precautions to consider when using osteopathy during pregnancy. It is recommended that pregnant women seek professional advice from a qualified practitioner before undergoing osteopathic treatment.
Pregnant women should also ensure that their practitioner is aware of their pregnancy and any existing medical conditions. It is also important to ensure that the practitioner is qualified and experienced in treating pregnant women.
Choosing the right Osteopath
Osteopathy is a regulated profession, and although a complementary treatment, at times, it may be available on the NHS (rarely). For the most part, the fastest way to be seen is as a private patient and possibly through your medical insurance. It’s best as part of your consultation, you discuss your pregnancy, and the osteopath assesses whether you’re suitable for Osteopathy before administering any treatment plans. Licensed osteopaths such as those at Arc Osteopathy, your local Croydon osteopath, can help you with this.
Your osteopath will discuss your medical history and current situation and look at your body as a whole instead of the areas in which you may have pains. They will want to check you’ve been seen by your GP beforehand and refer you back if needed.
In conclusion, osteopathy can be a great way for pregnant women to reduce pain and discomfort, stress and anxiety, and improve overall well-being. However, it is important to ensure that your GP is consulted before undergoing treatment. With the right professional advice and guidance, osteopathy can be a safe and effective way for pregnant women to improve their health and well-being.