Pregnancy is a unique experience. Enormous physical, chemical and emotional changes take over a relatively short period of time. The body has to adapt to carrying up to 20 lb of baby, fluids and placenta, which can impose physical strain on all organs and tissues. As the baby grows and takes up more space within the abdomen there is less space for her/him to move about and all the organs have to accommodate and move aside. The ligaments of the whole body soften during pregnancy to aid the passage of the baby through the pelvis during labour. Postural changes through the lower ribs and spine can impede the action of the diaphragm and make breathing difficult. 

All these changes affect the whole body and its supportive systems, making them more vulnerable to strains which can cause considerable changes and demands on posture and function, causing undue aches and pains.

Osteopathic treatment can ease some of the physical discomforts of pregnancy, prepare for the demands of labour, help the mother to recover after labour.