Craniosacral Therapy (CST) For Pregnancy, Postpartum and Fertility
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a form of manual therapy which has evolved from osteopathic roots. CST uses an incredibly gentle touch, usually around five grams of pressure (the weight of a nickel) to manipulate the movement of the bones and the flow of cerebrospinal fluid to greater enhance the mobility, balance and function of the body. The body seeks balance, and needs mobility. When parts of the body don't move independently of their neighbors, pain and loss of function can result. This type of therapy is done fully clothed.
Craniosacral therapy can Help:
Preconception and Fertility CST
Why wait until pregnancy? If you are planning to conceive or are working toward fertility or undergoing fertility treatments you are also an ideal candidate for for CST. Fertility is directly tied to the structure and function of the pelvis and reproductive organs, and your session can be tailored to treat any imbalances or restrictions in these areas, giving you the greatest likelihood of easy conception. |
Why Should Pregnant and Recently Postpartum Folks Get Bodywork?
All perinatal bodywork should help pregnant and new parents cope with discomforts in their changing bodies. Much of this work is done with specific structural goals in mind. Additionally, studies show that parents who receive positive touch during their pregnancies and postpartum are better able to provide loving touch to their newborn infants. Touch is key for infant-parental bonding, and is necessary for a newborn’s survival. Prenatal CST CST uses specific, gentle techniques to enhance the mobility in the pregnant body including the bony pelvis, abdominal organs, and the support structures and lower segment of the uterus. This makes for more comfortable parents and babies. When restrictions are released from the pelvis, babies have more room to grow and are less likely to develop conditions like torticollis, hip dysplasia and scoliosis. Babies with plenty of room to move, they have the best chance of entering the birth process in an ideal position, thereby decreasing a need for interventions such as forceps, vacuum extractors or surgery during the birth. The perinatal period can also always benefit from decreased stress from the calm, soothing time spent receiving this treatment and the nervous system reset that it provides. As the clients due date nears, there are also gentle softening and opening exercises that can be provided to best prepare for the birth process. Postpartum CST Postpartum CST is a great way for new parents to continue to be nurtured when they spend most of their energy nurturing a new baby. Taking care of oneself during the postpartum period is crucial in being able to continue the huge task of taking care of others. A postpartum treatment focuses on structural realignment of the spine and pelvis and rehabilitation of the muscles and other structures overworked or weakened during pregnancy. It facilitates pelvic floor healing, especially for folks who have had cesarean births, or experienced other injuries during the birth. Clients also receive instruction on how best to help themselves recover strength and balance in their bodies in the weeks to come. CST can also be a great nervous system reset for tired, often under slept, new parents. Newborns are welcome to join and be held/nursed by their parents during the session. |