Why a Post-natal Osteopathic Assessment Is Worthwhile
Pregnancy is an extraordinary time for the body — but it’s also physically demanding in ways that are often underestimated. While the focus naturally shifts to caring for the newborn after birth, many new mums quietly carry on with lingering aches, structural changes, and discomforts that go unchecked.
At The Waterside Practice, we believe post-natal care deserves the same attention and support as pre-natal care — and that’s why we’ve introduced a specialist postnatal osteopathic assessment, offered exclusively by our Principal Osteopath who has additional specialist training in this field.
The Structural Load of Pregnancy: More Than Just "Backache"
During pregnancy, the body undergoes rapid, complex change. The spine, particularly the lumbar region, and the pelvis are placed under increasing mechanical load as your centre of gravity shifts and ligaments soften in response to hormonal changes. Even without complications during pregnancy or birth, these adaptations can leave lasting effects.
After having my first child, I remember putting on my pre-pregnancy jeans and thinking: "These feel like someone else's jeans."
That feeling wasn’t just about weight — it was about structure. The shape and dynamics of the pelvis had changed, I shouldn’t have been surprised but I really was, at how much different they felt. For many women, that subtle shift can result in instability, altered posture, discomfort, and even pain in areas never felt before. This, combined with the 24/7 demands of a newborn, can lead to painful problems becoming longer term issues through motherhood. With the potential to cause musculoskeletal issues in future pregnancies if left unresolved.
Why This Appointment Type Matters
While all our osteopaths are experienced in working with women during and after pregnancy, we recognised the need for a dedicated, in-depth postnatal assessment — one that goes beyond symptom relief to thoroughly evaluate the spine, pelvis, and musculoskeletal system following pregnancy and birth.
This new appointment is designed to:
Assess spinal alignment and pelvic balance
Address issues caused by birth (traumatic or otherwise)
Support the recovery of core and pelvic floor function
Help new mums regain a sense of comfort and connection in their bodies
Whether you’re weeks, months, or even years postpartum, it’s never too late to benefit from a tailored assessment.
Why Only Our Principal Osteopath Offers This Service
This specific assessment is offered exclusively by our Principal Osteopath, Bernitta Willoughby M.Ost PGD WHO, who brings advanced specialist training in Women’s Health to the role.
In 2019, she completed a prestigious two-year postgraduate diploma in Women’s Health Osteopathy with acclaimed osteopath Renzo Molinari at the Molinari Institute in London — a highly respected course recognised across the profession.
Principal Osteopath Bernitta at the Graduation Ceremony upon passing her Post graduate diploma in Women’s Health Osteopathy in 2019 with her Husband Joseph and daughter who was born whilst studying the course.
Bernitta has always had a strong interest in supporting women during this stage of life, with a particular passion for treating pelvic pain. This focus led her to pursue training specifically designed to address these types of complaints.
This specialist training, combined with years of hands-on experience treating postnatal patients, enables her to carry out your assessment with both clinical precision and a deep understanding of the female body’s unique journey through pregnancy and recovery.
Book Your Postnatal Assessment
If you’ve noticed persistent changes since giving birth — whether that’s back pain, pelvic discomfort, postural shifts, or simply feeling "not quite right" in your body — this specialist appointment is here to help.
To find out more or to book your postnatal osteopathic assessment, get in touch with the clinic. We're here to support your recovery, your comfort, and your confidence.
Direct booking link 👉 https://thewatersidepractice.janeapp.co.uk/#/staff_member/1
📞 01487 209084
📍 The Waterside Practice, 10a Mill Green, Warboys, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire