Understanding Postpartum Pelvic Pain: Causes, Self-Relief Tips, and How Osteopathy Can Support Your Recovery
Experiencing pelvic pain after childbirth is a common concern for many new mums. The physical demands of pregnancy and delivery can cause discomfort or persistent pain in the pelvic region, affecting your ability to move, care for your baby, and enjoy motherhood fully. Understanding why postpartum pelvic pain occurs, learning effective ways to manage it at home, and knowing how professional care such as osteopathy can help is essential for a smooth recovery.
As a specialist in postnatal osteopathic care in Milford, I am committed to supporting new mums through this often challenging phase. If you are struggling with pelvic pain postpartum, gentle and tailored osteopathic treatment may be the relief you need.
Why Do New Mums Experience Pelvic Pain Postpartum?
Several factors contribute to pelvic pain after birth:
Pelvic joint changes: During pregnancy, hormones like relaxin loosen the ligaments supporting your pelvis to prepare for childbirth. This increased mobility can lead to instability and pain in the pubic symphysis and sacroiliac joints after delivery.
Muscle weakness or imbalance: The muscles around the pelvis, including the pelvic floor and deep core, may be stretched or weakened from pregnancy and labour, causing discomfort and poor support.
Birth trauma or interventions: Vaginal delivery, assisted births, or cesarean sections can sometimes cause strain or trauma to pelvic tissues, resulting in pain.
Postural changes: Adjusting to caring for a newborn often means prolonged sitting, bending, and lifting, which can increase pelvic strain and discomfort.
Scar tissue and adhesions: For women who have had C-sections or episiotomies, scar tissue may cause tension and contribute to pelvic pain.
How to Self-Manage Postpartum Pelvic Pain
While professional care is important, there are effective steps you can take at home to help relieve pelvic pain postpartum:
Pelvic floor exercises: Gentle, controlled activation of pelvic floor muscles can strengthen support and improve stability.
Avoid heavy lifting and sudden movements that increase pelvic strain while your body heals.
Use pelvic support belts: These can help stabilize the pelvis and reduce discomfort during daily activities.
Maintain good posture when feeding, carrying your baby, or sitting to reduce unnecessary pressure on your pelvis.
Apply heat or cold packs to painful areas to ease muscle tension and inflammation.
Rest and pace your activities: Gradually increase your activity levels, allowing time for recovery.
How Osteopathic Treatment Can Help Postpartum Pelvic Pain
Osteopathy offers a holistic, gentle approach to managing pelvic pain after childbirth by addressing the root causes and supporting your body’s natural healing:
Restoring pelvic alignment: Through gentle mobilisations, osteopathy helps realign the pelvic joints to reduce strain and improve function.
Releasing muscle tension and adhesions: Soft tissue techniques ease tight muscles and break down scar tissue that may contribute to pain.
Improving mobility and stability: Osteopathic treatment supports the pelvic floor and core muscles, enhancing strength and coordination.
Postural advice and tailored exercise guidance to help you move comfortably during motherhood.
Supporting overall postpartum recovery by addressing related issues like lower back pain, hip discomfort, and sacroiliac joint pain.
At my Milford clinic, I understand how important it is for new mums to have flexible and supportive care. You are welcome to bring your baby, children, and support partners to your appointment. I am happy to work around feeding times or take breaks as needed, making your healing journey easier and stress-free.
Book Your Postpartum Pelvic Pain Osteopathy Appointment
Don’t let postpartum pelvic pain hold you back from enjoying motherhood and daily life. With expert osteopathic care tailored to new mums, you can find relief, restore function, and regain confidence in your body.
Book your appointment online with Sarah Boughtwood, your trusted Milford postnatal osteopath, and take the first step toward a comfortable and supported recovery.