Pregnancy and Postnatal Care in Holborn

About our pregnancy and postnatal care

Our practitioners include therapists specifically trained for pregnancy (including London ACT trained acupuncturists and therapists experienced with pregnancy specific positioning, bolstering, and contraindications). We are careful about who offers what. If a given therapy isn't suitable for your stage of pregnancy, a practitioner will say so and suggest an alternative.

A range of clients come to us during pregnancy, from those in the first trimester (usually looking for general wellbeing support, or help with nausea) to those later on (more often focused on comfort, sleep, and preparation for labour). Postnatally, clients tend to be looking for help recovering physically, for space to rest, and sometimes for support with the emotional adjustment of new parenthood.

Therapies clients find helpful

Pregnancy massage. Adapted massage for every stage of pregnancy. Therapists trained in pregnancy work use side lying, bolstering, and modified pressure to keep treatment safe and comfortable. Pregnancy massage is commonly sought for lower back discomfort, hip and pelvic tension, tired legs, and general rest.

Acupuncture. Acupuncture through pregnancy is offered by our London ACT trained practitioners. Particular areas of experience include nausea in the first trimester (for which acupressure and acupuncture have some evidence), pelvic and back discomfort, and, in later pregnancy, preparation for labour. A fair proportion of our third trimester clients come in weekly in the last few weeks.

Osteopathy. Gentle osteopathy through pregnancy can support you through the mechanical changes a growing bump brings: low back and sacroiliac discomfort, rib pain, pubic symphysis dysfunction. Our GOsC registered osteopaths are experienced with pregnancy specific work.

Craniosacral therapy. A very light touch modality that suits some clients through and after pregnancy, including for babies in certain contexts (our craniosacral practitioner will have a conversation with you about what is and isn't appropriate).

Counselling and psychotherapy. Pregnancy and new parenthood can be emotionally significant. Our UKCP accredited therapists work with clients through pregnancy, pregnancy loss, birth trauma, and the early months of parenthood.

Yoga and mindfulness. Some clients attend our weekly meditation class as part of their wellbeing routine through pregnancy.

Postnatal care

The weeks and months after birth are their own distinct phase. Common reasons clients come to us postnatally include the musculoskeletal aftermath of pregnancy and labour (sore back, pelvic floor related discomfort, shoulder strain from feeding), general physical restoration, and space to rest in a quiet room for an hour. Some mothers bring babies to craniosacral sessions; others come to us for their own recovery and leave the baby at home.