Osteopathy provides a gentle way of helping the body to adapt to the enormous physiological and postural changes that take place during pregnancy and delivery. Osteopathy can benefit a number of problems, including: Aches and pains Back ache Neck ache Sciatica Digestion problems Circulatory problems Muscle spasms and cramps Inability to relax For many women pregnancy means having to cope with a whole range of symptoms from back pain to morning sickness.  As the baby grows, the extra weight results in a changed centre of gravity, and posture changes week to week resulting in a variety of aches and pains, which include backache, aching legs and undue fatigue.  As the breasts enlarge, pain may occur in the neck and upper back, and may also cause headaches.  As the uterus expands, changes in posture are also often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, heartburn and shortness of breath. As the baby grows, the mother’s posture has to adapt to the accommodate the position of the baby as it has less space to move about.  This may lead to undue aches and pains. Trauma to the pelvic bones, coccyx or sacrum at any time in the mother’s life can leave increased tension in muscles and strain within pelvic ligaments and bones.  This may affect the ability of these bones to separate and move out of the way during labour, limiting the size of the pelvic outlet.  Releasing strains within the pelvis can offer the best chance of an easy uncomplicated labour.  Following birth, osteopathy can help the mother return to normal, physically and emotionally, by releasing strains that may have occurred during the pregnancy and labour.  This allows her to relax and enjoy her new baby.    Mother and baby checks After delivery it is advised that mother and child return for structural examination, advice, check ups and if necessary for treatment.  The sooner an osteopath is able to diagnose and treat a baby, the easier it is for the balance within that child to be restored.  Any woman attending the clinic for osteopathy during her pregnancy is entitled to a free baby check within the first 3 months following birth.  At the clinic we also offer new mum and baby checks, where both mother and baby can be checked, and treated at a discounted rate.