How Osteopathy Can Support Women Postpartum

Written by Osteopath Gemma Ahrens

Pregnancy and becoming a new mother is an incredible and exciting journey, however it also comes with many challenges. During pregnancy and childbirth, a woman’s body undergoes profound changes; ligaments soften, posture shifts, abdominal and pelvic floor muscles stretch, and internal organs are compressed. The postpartum period, while filled with love and new beginnings, can also bring unexpected physical and emotional challenges. Whether the birth was vaginal or via a caesarean section (C-section), the body must now begin the process of readjustment and healing. Osteopathy offers gentle, holistic support that can aid the body’s recovery, restore balance, and help mothers feel more like themselves again.

At the clinic I see new mums with a range of physical issues, including:

- Pelvic pain or instability

- Lower back pain

- Neck and shoulder tension (often from feeding and carrying the baby)

- Coccyx pain (tailbone discomfort from birth trauma or prolonged labour)

- Scarring and adhesions from C-sections or episiotomies

- Fatigue and general discomfort from disrupted sleep and hormonal changes

Here’s how Osteopathy can support postpartum recovery:

Pelvic Alignment and Stability

Pregnancy hormones like relaxin soften ligaments, which can cause instability in the pelvis. Osteopathic techniques aim to improve joint mobility, increase stability with the pelvis and relieve pressure on surrounding tissues. This may help to reduce pain and improve function.

Back and Neck Pain Relief

Feeding and holding a baby frequently can lead to postural strain, especially in the upper back and neck. Osteopathic treatment aims to release tension, improve posture, and reduce discomfort—important not just for pain relief, but also for your ability to care for your baby comfortably.

Support for Abdominal and Pelvic Floor Healing

Osteopathy can work alongside pelvic floor rehab to help assess how the abdominal muscles, diaphragm, and pelvic floor are functioning together. Osteopathy uses techniques to support better alignment and breathing patterns that may aid recovery.

Scar Tissue and C-Section Recovery  

After a C-section or episiotomy, scar tissue can create restrictions in the surrounding tissues. Gentle fascial techniques may help to improve mobility and reduce discomfort in the abdominal wall and lower back.

Overall Well-being and Relaxation

Being a new mum can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Osteopathy sessions often provide a space for relaxation and self-care, which is just as important for healing as the hands-on work itself.

When to See an Osteopath

Every woman’s postpartum journey is different, so there’s no ‘perfect’ time to seek osteopathic care. Some women come in within the first few weeks of birth, while others may wait a little longer. If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, pain, or just want to support your recovery more holistically, an osteopathic assessment may greatly benefit you. 

Postpartum healing doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process that deserves time, attention, and compassion. As osteopaths, we’re here to support you—helping your body regain balance and function so you can move forward in this new chapter with strength and ease.

If you would like to book in an appointment to see Gemma, please click below. Alternatively, give us a call on 0425 876 929 to discuss your needs.

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References:

1. Cerritelli, F., Pizzolorusso, G., Ciardelli, F., La Mola, E., Cozzolino, V., & Renzetti, C. (2016). Effectiveness of osteopathic manipulative treatment on post-partum pain and functional disability: A pilot study. Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 116(1), 34–40. https://doi.org/10.7556/jaoa.2016.003

2. Licciardone, J. C., Gatchel, R. J., Aryal, S., & Kearns, C. M. (2015). Recovery from chronic low back pain after osteopathic manipulative treatment: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 115(6), 416–424. https://doi.org/10.7556/jaoa.2015.087

3. Franke, H., Franke, J. D., & Fryer, G. (2017). Osteopathic manipulative treatment for nonspecific low back pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 18(1), 525. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-017-1914-x

4. The Willow Clinic. (n.d.). Osteopathic care for postpartum mothers and babies. Retrieved April 15, 2025, from https://www.thewillowclinic.com.au/osteopathic-care-for-postpartum-mothers-and-babies/

5. Nelson, K. E., & Glonek, T. (2025). Osteopathic consideration of pelvic girdle pain in the postpartum period: A case report. Journal of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, 17(1). https://www.acofp.org/news-and-publications/journal/article-detail/vol-17-no-1-2025-winter-2025/osteopathic-consideration-pelvic-girdle-pain-postpartum