Did you know your Osteopath can assist you with Childbirth and Lactation?
As trusted Osteopaths and Lactation Consultants serving the Camden area, Completely Aligned understands the unique physical and emotional challenges that new mothers face throughout pregnancy, and in the early days following childbirth.
Contact our friendly staff if you have any questions.
Did you know Osteopaths can assist with Childbirth & Breastfeeding?
As Osteopaths (and lactation consultants) we have the privilege of working with many mothers in preparation for childbirth, as well as throughout the post-partum period. It is an incredible experience to witness the transformation that occurs throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the early days of motherhood. This period is often filled with the incredible highs associated with welcoming new life, as well as some occasional lows due to both the physical and emotional challenges that childbirth can bring. That’s why we want to discuss the benefits of osteopathic care following childbirth, particularly when it comes to post-partum recovery, feeding, and lactation.
5 reasons why new mothers in Camden should consider consulting an Osteopath and Lactation Consultant in the early days and weeks following childbirth:
Promoting Relaxation: Childbirth can cause tension and discomfort throughout the body, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and lower back/pelvis. Osteopathy can help alleviate this tension through hands-on manual therapy, promoting relaxation and making it easier for new mothers in Camden to feed and nurse their infants and move around the house more comfortably.
Improving Range of Motion: Reduced range of motion (ROM) in the upper body can make it difficult to hold and position a baby for breastfeeding. Osteopathy can help improve flexibility and mobility, making it easier for mothers in Camden to adjust their position and find a comfortable feeding posture. Sometimes it is necessary for our Osteopaths to provide treatment to your baby also, particularly if they have had a difficult birth (Eg. prolonged labour, engaged for a lengthy period as if often the case with first-borns, use of forceps/vacuum extraction) and have some neck pain or restricted movement including torticollis. This reduced ROM may result in difficulty in turning their head towards one breast more than the other.
- In a 2022 article published in the Journal of Midwifery and Women’s Health, the authors noted that osteopathic care can help improve breastfeeding outcomes for new mothers. The article discussed how osteopathic techniques can address issues such as nipple pain, milk supply, and infant latch, making it easier for new mothers to establish a successful breastfeeding relationship with their baby.
Addressing Pain and Discomfort: Many new mothers experience pain and discomfort following childbirth, particularly in the pelvic area. Osteopathy can help address these issues, relieving pain and discomfort and helping new mothers in Camden feel more comfortable during feeding and lactation.
- In a 2020 study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, researchers found that osteopathic treatment was effective in reducing pain and discomfort in the pelvic area of postpartum women. The study also noted that osteopathy had a positive impact on the overall quality of life for new mothers.
Supporting Healing: Childbirth is a significant trauma to the body, and it takes time for the body to heal and recover. Osteopathy can support this healing process, helping to realign the body and promoting circulation and lymphatic drainage. This can help reduce swelling and inflammation, speed up the healing process, and make it easier for new mothers in Camden to care for their babies. Our Osteopaths are trained in scar tissue management. At the appropriate healing phase, they can assist with cesarean scar tissue minimisation, as well as provide prescribed recovery compression garments such as SRC recovery shorts.
Anxiety: Finally, osteopathic care can help new mothers in Camden manage stress and anxiety, which can be overwhelming during this period of change and adjustment. Osteopaths use gentle techniques to promote relaxation, reduce tension, and balance the nervous system. This can help new mothers in Camden feel calmer and more centered, making it easier to cope with the demands of feeding and caring for a new baby.
- A 2021 review published in the International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine found that osteopathic treatment was effective in reducing stress and anxiety in postpartum women. The review also highlighted the importance of osteopathy in promoting relaxation and improving the range of motion in the upper body.
Mastitis management: our Osteopaths and Lactation Consultants are trained in all aspects of Mastitis Breast Care. From feeding support to hands-on treatment and therapeutic ultrasound, we’ve got you covered when it comes to managing this painful breastfeeding condition. You can read more about our recommendations (and why antibiotics are often not necessary) in another blog “Mastitis: how best to manage it”.
In summary, Osteopathic care and Lactation support are essential for new mothers in Camden who want to feel their best and give their babies the care they deserve. Completely Aligned is here to help new mothers in Camden achieve optimal health and wellness during this exciting and challenging time.
Contact us today at 02 4655 5588 to learn more about how we can help you on your postnatal recovery journey.
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