Pregnancy and parenting

Last week, in all that furnace-like heat, I was having a lovely time in clinic treating new parents.  I love treating through pregnancy and new mums too.  I love hearing all the wonder and love that parents have to share.  The attentiveness and tenderness they have for their babies.

Sometimes though things are a little less than rosy.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy requires substantial changes to the maternal body – it is amazing.  The growing baby can push and stretch into all available space in mum’s body and then grow and stretch a bit more.  Back pain, rib pain and pelvic pain (with sciatica) are all fairly common in the later stages of pregnancy.

Birth

Birth follows.  This is truly miraculous.  The baby turns and wriggles out and the mother’s pelvis has to accommodate this.  The hormonal effects of birth and milk-production then influence the mother’s body further.  Upper back and neck pain, pelvic and back pain can all, understandably occur after birth.

Ante-natal

Then, as the mum’s body just returns to its pre-pregnancy state she might become pregnant again.  There might be a toddler in tow too.  I think this is the toughest time for mums. The sleepless night and the fatigue-fogged days.  Possibly being uncomfortable with a demanding toddler.  No wonder the body takes the strain with lifting, playing on the floor, sleepless nights etc.

Luckily, many of the aches and pains can be eased with osteopathy.  A few practical pointers can be invaluable too.  I love being able to offer professional and evidence-based help for parents. To discuss or book your appointment, please click here.

Moreover, I just love to be there to support parents along their remarkable journey.  I am very fortunate to have two children.  The are growing up so fast.  It seems like just yesterday they were my tiny babes-in-arms.

I could claim to have ‘been there done that’ but I think that sells parenthood short.  ‘Still there, still doing that’ is more on the mark. I hope I have a few pearls of wisdom to share and a good ear to bend.

To my patients with children older than mine: thank you for your wisdom and your insights. We are all learning together.