Common reasons
Back and pelvic discomfort are common during pregnancy. Care is adapted to be gentle and appropriate for each trimester.
Osteopathy may help with pregnancy-related back and pelvic discomfort using gentler, adapted techniques. I’ll always screen carefully and work within what feels safe for you.
This is supportive care, not obstetric treatment. Stay under your midwife or obstetrician’s guidance, and tell me about any complications or advice you’ve been given.
Common symptoms and how they affect daily life
Pregnancy brings big changes to the body, and back and pelvic discomfort are common. People often describe:
Low back ache, particularly later in the day or after standing
Pelvic girdle pain — discomfort at the front of the pelvis (around the pubic bone) or at the back of the pelvis
Pain when turning over in bed, climbing stairs, getting in and out of the car, or standing on one leg to get dressed
Hip, buttock or upper back discomfort
Rib and mid-back discomfort as the baby grows
Neck and shoulder tension, sometimes alongside poor sleep
These symptoms can make sleep, work, walking and caring for other children harder, and they can be tiring on top of everything else pregnancy involves.
Possible contributing factors
Discomfort during pregnancy is common and often linked to the normal changes of pregnancy. Factors commonly involved include:
Hormonal changes that affect the ligaments around the pelvis
Changes in posture and centre of gravity as the baby grows
Weight gain and increased load through the back, pelvis and hips
Changes in activity, sleep position and general fatigue
Previous back or pelvic pain, including in an earlier pregnancy
Not all pain in pregnancy comes from muscles and joints, which is why careful screening matters.
Your first visit: assessment and referral
Your first visit includes a detailed history: how many weeks pregnant you are, how your pregnancy is progressing, any complications or advice from your midwife or obstetrician, and your symptoms. I’ll assess how you move, with positioning adapted for comfort — such as side-lying with pillows and supports.
I’ll explain what I’ve found and whether osteopathic care seems appropriate, and we’ll agree on an approach together.
If anything in your history or assessment suggests a need for medical review, I’ll ask you to contact your midwife, obstetrician or GP before going further. With your consent, I’m happy to communicate with your maternity care team.
What a visit may include
Gentle, adapted hands-on care
Focus on comfort and day-to-day function
Clear communication with your maternity care team when needed
How osteopaths commonly approach pregnancy-related discomfort
Care during pregnancy is gentle and adapted to each stage. It commonly includes:
Education — what may be contributing to your discomfort and what’s common during pregnancy
Activity and daily-task advice — getting in and out of bed and the car, sleeping positions and pacing your day
Exercise — gentle mobility and strengthening suited to pregnancy, in line with your maternity team’s advice
Hands-on techniques — gentle soft tissue work and mobilisation in comfortable, supported positions that aim to ease discomfort
Support options — a discussion of pillows, supports or belts where they may help
Techniques and positions are always adjusted to your stage of pregnancy and your comfort, and you can ask me to stop or change anything at any time.
How progress is reviewed
There’s no fixed number of sessions. Because your body keeps changing through pregnancy, we’ll review how you’re going at each visit and adjust the plan as needed — including into the postnatal period if that’s helpful.
If symptoms get worse or don’t respond as expected, I’ll suggest checking in with your midwife, obstetrician or GP.
Things you can try day to day
Keep gently active — walking, swimming or pregnancy-specific classes suit many people, if your maternity team agrees
Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees and under your bump
Keep your knees together when turning in bed or getting in and out of the car
Sit down to put on pants, socks and shoes
Avoid wide steps or standing on one leg if they aggravate pelvic pain
Pace your activities and take regular breaks
When to seek urgent medical care
Some symptoms in pregnancy need urgent medical attention. Contact your midwife, obstetrician or maternity unit straight away, or call 000 in an emergency, if you have:
Any vaginal bleeding or leaking of fluid
Severe or persistent abdominal pain, or regular tightenings or contractions before 37 weeks
Reduced or changed baby movements
A severe headache, changes to your vision, or sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet
A fever, or pain or burning when passing urine
Pain, swelling or redness in one calf, or chest pain or shortness of breath
Frequently asked questions
Is osteopathy safe during pregnancy?
Osteopathic care can be adapted for pregnancy using gentle techniques and supported positions. I’ll screen carefully and always work within your maternity team’s advice. If osteopathy isn’t appropriate for you at any point, I’ll tell you.
Which trimester can I come in?
People come in at different stages of pregnancy. Care is adapted to each stage, and I’ll ask about your pregnancy and any advice you’ve received at every visit.
Will I need to lie on my stomach?
No. Treatment uses comfortable positions such as side-lying or seated, with pillows and supports as needed.
Can I come in after my baby is born?
Yes. The postnatal period brings its own physical demands. It’s a good idea to check in with your GP, midwife or obstetrician first, particularly after a caesarean birth.
General information only. Osteopathy isn’t right for everyone — I’ll be straight with you if another option is better.
Ready to book?
By appointment only at 123 Martin Street, Brighton.