Osteopathy at Blooming Osteopathy
Pregnancy Osteopathy
Helping you feel more comfortable during pregnancy
Pregnancy brings huge changes to your body, and while some aches and discomfort are a normal part of that process, you don’t simply have to put up with everything.
Whether you’re dealing with back or pelvic pain, rib discomfort, headaches, stiffness or simply finding that your body isn’t moving as comfortably as it used to, osteopathic care can help you understand what’s happening and find ways to make things feel more manageable.
I’ll take the time to understand how you’re feeling, where you are in your pregnancy and what matters to you, before creating an approach that’s appropriate for you and your stage of pregnancy.
Common reasons people come to see me during pregnancy
As your body changes, you may notice new aches, pains or areas that don’t feel quite like they used to. Some of the common reasons people come to see me during pregnancy include:
• Back or pelvic pain
• Hip or groin discomfort
• Rib or upper-back discomfort
• Neck and shoulder tension
• Headaches
• Stiffness or feeling less comfortable moving
• Aches and pains that are making sleep, walking, exercise or everyday activities harder
You don’t need to have a specific problem to book. You may simply want some support as your body changes, or help finding ways to stay comfortable and active throughout your pregnancy.
How I approach treatment during pregnancy
Pregnancy is different for everyone, and your body can feel very different from one week to the next. I adapt each appointment to where you are in your pregnancy, how you’re feeling and what you need from treatment.
We’ll start by talking through what’s been happening and how it’s affecting you. I’ll assess how you’re moving and where you’re experiencing discomfort, then explain what I’ve found and discuss the options with you before we decide together what would be helpful.
Treatment is always adapted to you and your stage of pregnancy. My aim isn’t to push your body or prescribe a long list of things to do, but to help you feel more comfortable and confident in your changing body.
I also want you to leave understanding why you’re experiencing what you are, and with a few realistic things you can do to help yourself between appointments.
What to expect
Your first appointment is a chance to talk through how you’re feeling, what’s changed during your pregnancy and what you’d like help with.
We’ll take some time to understand your symptoms and relevant medical history before assessing how you’re moving and where you’re experiencing discomfort. I’ll explain what I’ve found and talk through the options with you before we decide together what feels appropriate.
Treatment is adapted to you and your stage of pregnancy, and I’ll always make sure you’re comfortable throughout the appointment.
You don’t need to prepare anything special beforehand. Just wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily.
A few questions you may have
Is osteopathy suitable for me during pregnancy?
Osteopathic care can be adapted throughout pregnancy, but every pregnancy is different. I’ll take the time to understand your individual circumstances, how you’re feeling and what you’d like help with before deciding what assessment and treatment is appropriate.
If you have any concerns about your pregnancy or have been advised to avoid certain activities or treatments, we’ll take that into account. Where appropriate, I may recommend speaking with your midwife, GP or obstetrician before treatment.
Do I need a referral?
No. Most people book an appointment directly without seeing their GP or midwife first.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily is ideal. I’ll always make sure you’re comfortable and appropriately covered throughout the appointment.
Can I claim through my health insurance?
In many cases, yes. Most of the major Irish health insurers include cover for osteopathy, depending on your policy. I’ll provide a receipt after your appointment, which you can use to make your claim.
Do I need to prepare anything before my appointment?
Not at all. Just come as you are. There’s no special preparation needed before your appointment.
Ready when you are
Pregnancy can bring a lot of changes, but you don’t have to navigate all of them on your own.
If you’d like some support to feel more comfortable and confident during your pregnancy, I’d love to help.
