Although it is a most natural process, giving birth can be physically demanding and sometimes traumatic for both mother and baby. See our page on osteopathy for babies. 

During birth the pelvic ligaments stretch to allow the parts of the pelvis to separate. After birth, these ligaments tighten and return to normal length, and any distortions from giving birth may remain, disturbing the normal function of the pelvis and spine. Treatment aims to help the new mother's posture to return to normal by realigning the pelvis and spine, which also helps the uterus and bladder to realign within the pelvis, and improves pelvic floor function.

Unresolved delivery stresses can place undue strain on the body resulting in aches or pain the back,  neck, shoulders, and strain on pelvic organs. Osteopaths recommend that all mothers have a postnatal osteopathic checkup following delivery. Rebalancing the pelvis after childbirth is very straightforward when treated in the first few weeks, and it can prevent many problems later on.

New life habits can further burden a body that is still undergoing hormonal and physical changes. Repeated bending to change nappies, poor feeding positions, lifting baby and car seats, or carrying the baby on the hip, add to the vulnerability at this time. 

Occasionally, a new mother will have difficulty with breast milk flow or mastitis. Mothers often report an improvement in breast comfort and milk production after treatment.