Pregnancy is a very important period in a couple’s life. The mother sees her life changing as the baby grows in her uterus. These are very important changes at a tissue and physiological level. Due to hormonal changes the tissues in the mother’s body become more flexible (muscles, ligaments…) as the body adapts to the growth of the uterus and in preparation for the baby passing through the pelvis during birth in a natural way.
The importance of the biomechanical factor
Some factors can alter this natural process and create tensions during birth and sometimes during the pregnancy itself. For example if a woman has had an important trauma (at knee level) that could modify her balance and alter the natural equilibrium that exists in the different muscles that form the pelvis due to the compensations created for posture. Thus the natural mechanism for pelvic overture could be compromised and create complications during birth such as extended labour, baby’s skull compression, need for forceps or vacuum. In this case the osteopath helps to reestablish the symmetry of the pelvis to reduce complications in childbirth.
Changes in Posture
During pregnancy the mother’s body changes as a result of the increasing forward weight of the developing uterus. This weight produces tension in back muscles as it increases.
Nervous System.
Both parents’ nervous systems are sometimes affected for the stress derived from the arrival of a new baby, especially if it is the first. In this case the osteopath can be of great help in liberating this stress.
Cesarean birth or episiotomy
If a cesarean or an episiotomy was performed, the procedure can affect many muscles, abdominal and perineum and these areas will loose elasticity. These mechanical changes will affect the back and the pelvis due to the adaptations incurred.