Pregnancy is an extraordinary time — and a physically demanding one. Over nine months, the body constantly adapts: the centre of gravity shifts, ligaments loosen under the effect of relaxin, and posture evolves week after week. Osteopathy supports these changes to relieve discomfort, prevent painful compensations and prepare the body for birth.

Why consult during pregnancy?

Pain during pregnancy is common but not inevitable. Osteopathy addresses the mechanical causes of this discomfort — ligament tension, joint restrictions, postural compensations — without medication, gently and safely.

Issues treated in each trimester

1st trimester (1–12 weeks)

✓Nausea and vomiting: releasing diaphragmatic and vagal tension
✓Intense fatigue and neck tension linked to hormonal changes
✓Early lower back pain: preventive care before compensations set in
✓Early-pregnancy osteopathic check-up (recommended for everyone)

2nd trimester (13–26 weeks)

✓Lower and mid-back pain: as the belly rounds out, the centre of gravity shifts
✓Pregnancy-related sciatica: compression of the sciatic nerve from tension in the glute and hip rotator muscles
✓Pelvic girdle pain (pubic symphysis pain): destabilisation of the pubic symphysis under the effect of relaxin
✓Gastro-oesophageal reflux: the top of the uterus gradually compresses the stomach
✓Cramps and tingling in the legs

3rd trimester (27–40 weeks)

✓Pelvic and sacral pain: as the ligaments loosen in preparation for birth
✓Sciatica and crural neuralgia
✓Sleep disturbances linked to musculoskeletal tension
✓Osteopathic preparation for birth: pelvic mobility, softening of the sacro-iliac ligaments and perineum
✓Breech presentation: certain techniques may encourage spontaneous rotation (as a complement to other approaches)

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Safety during pregnancy

Osteopathy is safe during pregnancy when performed by an osteopath trained in perinatal care. No high-velocity manipulation (thrust) is used. The techniques applied are gentle: slow joint mobilisation, myofascial techniques, adapted visceral work. Hilary is specifically trained in perinatal osteopathy (CFPCO).

Osteopathic preparation for birth

From the 8th month onwards, one or two birth preparation sessions can be particularly beneficial. The goal is to:

✓Optimise the mobility of the bony pelvis (sacro-iliac joints, pubic symphysis, sacrum) to help the baby engage and descend
✓Release tension in the utero-sacral and round ligaments that support the uterus
✓Work on perineal flexibility to help with delivery
✓Prepare the diaphragm and abdominal muscles for the effort of pushing
✓Reduce stress and improve body awareness ahead of birth

And after birth? The post-partum period

Birth places intense demands on the body, whether vaginal or by caesarean section. A post-partum check-up session is recommended between 6 and 8 weeks after birth (with approval from your gynaecologist or midwife):

✓Treating the after-effects of birth: coccyx tension, episiotomy scarring, residual lower back pain
✓After a caesarean: releasing the scar and abdominal adhesions, pelvic tension
✓Rebalancing the pelvis and sacro-iliac joints
✓Improving drainage to reduce residual swelling (as a complement to Renata França drainage)
✓Supporting the return of abdominal mobility and pelvic floor function

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Renata França drainage as a complement

Renata França drainage is an excellent complement to osteopathy in the post-partum period: it reduces residual swelling, improves lymphatic circulation and supports physical and emotional recovery. From 15 days after a vaginal birth, or with medical approval after a caesarean.

Hilary's specific training

Hilary Farid completed specialised training in perinatal osteopathy at CFPCO (Centre de Formation en Périnatalité et Concept Ostéopathique), which specifically trains osteopaths in the care of pregnant women, post-partum recovery and infants. This training includes osteopathic preparation for birth and techniques adapted to each trimester.

How many sessions during pregnancy?

There is no fixed protocol. Generally, we recommend:

✓1 session early in pregnancy (check-up and prevention)
✓1 session mid-pregnancy if discomfort arises
✓1 to 2 birth preparation sessions in the 8th–9th month
✓1 post-partum check-up session at 6–8 weeks after birth

In case of significant pain (severe sciatica, disabling pelvic girdle pain), a closer follow-up schedule can be arranged.

FAQ

Is osteopathy safe during the first trimester?+

Yes, provided the osteopath is trained in perinatal care and uses appropriate techniques. In the first trimester, high-velocity manipulation is avoided as a precaution. Gentle techniques (myofascial, functional, visceral) carry no risk.

Can I have osteopathy if I've had miscarriages?+

Yes. Hilary adapts her approach to your history and specific situation. Always mention your history during the initial consultation.

Can osteopathy help turn a breech baby?+

Osteopathy can release ligament and muscle tension in the pelvis that restricts the baby's spontaneous rotation. It encourages the optimal mechanical conditions for the baby to turn — but it does not turn the baby itself. It is complementary to external cephalic version (ECV) performed by the obstetrician.

Should my midwife know I'm seeing an osteopath?+

This is strongly recommended. Good coordination between your osteopath, midwife and gynaecologist ensures consistent, optimal care. Hilary may also refer you for medical advice if she notices anything of concern.

How soon after birth can I have a session?+

For a post-partum check-up session, it's generally best to wait 6 to 8 weeks after a vaginal birth, or to get approval from your doctor or gynaecologist after a caesarean. For acute pain (coccyx, intense lower back pain), an earlier consultation is possible — assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Osteopathy During Pregnancy: Benefits, Safety and When to Consult