Our specialist osteopath is just one reason to choose GW Osteopathy for children and babies

About Mother and Baby Treatments

Specialist support for every stage of your journey—from pregnancy and birth to the growth and development of your child.

At GW Osteopathy, we believe that the wellbeing of a mother and her child are deeply interconnected. Whether you are navigating the physical changes of pregnancy, recovering from childbirth, or seeking gentle support for your newborn, our specialist team is here to help.

Combining clinical expertise in Osteopathy and Midwifery-led insights, we provide a calm, supportive environment in Guildford and Godalming for families across Surrey. Our treatments are designed to soothe the nervous system, resolve physical tensions, and promote healthy development for both you and your little one.

Our Specialist Services

Relieve the aches and strains of pregnancy with our specialist prenatal massage. Using our unique pregnancy pillow at our central Guildford clinic, you can safely lie on your front to alleviate pressure on your lower back and pelvis. We focus on PGP relief, headache management, and pelvic floor awareness to help you feel your best throughout every trimester.

Your body undergoes incredible changes during childbirth. Our postnatal care focuses on helping you recover your strength and alignment. We address pelvic floor health, “nursing posture” aches, and provide compassionate support for those recovering from birth trauma, helping you return to feeling like yourself again.

Your body undergoes incredible changes during childbirth. Our postnatal care focuses on helping you recover your strength and alignment. We address pelvic floor health, “nursing posture” aches, and provide compassionate support for those recovering from birth trauma, helping you return to feeling like yourself again.

A refined and subtle form of osteopathic treatment, Cranial Osteopathy is particularly suited to the delicate systems of infants and expectant mothers. By applying very light pressure to the head and spine, we help release deep-seated tensions, encourage relaxation, and support the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

Postnatal treatments faq

Mother and Baby Treatments FAQ

How soon can my baby and I come in for a check-up?

We often see newborns within the first week of life for a post-birth check, and mothers usually find a postnatal session most beneficial following their 6-week GP check (though we can help with neck and shoulder tension much sooner).

No, it is a highly specialised clinical technique. While it is very relaxing, the osteopath is working to identify and release subtle physical restrictions in the tissues and fluids surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Yes, we often schedule “back-to-back” appointments so that both mother and baby can be assessed and treated in one visit, making it much easier for your schedule.

Yes, it can be very effective. Often, a flat spot develops because a baby has tension in their neck (torticollis) that makes it uncomfortable to turn their head. By gently releasing that neck tension, the baby can move their head more freely, allowing the head shape to round out naturally as they grow.

Every baby reacts differently. Some babies feel incredibly relaxed and sleep soundly immediately after a session. Others may be a little more “chatty” or unsettled for 24 hours as their body processes the physical changes. Both reactions are perfectly normal and usually settle very quickly.

Absolutely. We follow a “baby-led” approach. If your baby needs a feed, a nappy change, or just a cuddle to feel safe, we work around you. In fact, observing a baby during a feed can sometimes provide Jennifer or Gemma with valuable information about how their jaw and neck are functioning.

Yes, you can. Normal postnatal discharge (lochia) is a standard part of the healing process and does not prevent you from receiving gentle osteopathic care or a neck and shoulder massage. However, if you have any concerns or are feeling particularly unwell, we always recommend checking with your midwife first.

In one of our three clinics in Surrey. Click here for more information.n.

Why use GW Osteopathy?

  • Midwifery Insight: With Jennifer Beck training as a midwife, our team offers a level of neonatal and maternal expertise that goes beyond traditional manual therapy.
  • Gentle & Safe: All our Mother & Baby treatments use non-invasive, gentle techniques prioritising comfort and safety.
  • A “Whole-Family” Approach: We understand the practicalities of new parenthood; our clinics are baby-friendly, and we encourage you to bring your little ones along to your appointments.
  • Convenient Surrey Clinics: Located in central Guildford, Stoughton, and Godalming, with easy access for families in Woking and the surrounding areas.

Mother and Baby Treatments Benefits

Coordinated Recovery: By treating both mother and baby, we can often identify linked issues, such as a mother’s back pain being exacerbated by a baby’s preference for feeding on only one side due to neck tension.

Soothing the Nervous System: The gentle nature of cranial and prenatal work helps shift the body from a “stressed” state into a “restorative” state, which is vital for healing and bonding.

Early Intervention: Identifying postural habits or mechanical restrictions in infants early on can prevent more complex musculoskeletal issues as they reach developmental milestones like crawling and walking.

Confidence in Movement: Our postnatal and prenatal advice empowers mothers to understand their physical changes, reducing the anxiety often associated with pelvic floor health and returning to exercise.

A Holistic Support Network: Beyond manual therapy, we provide a listening ear and clinical insight into the physical transitions of parenthood, serving as a bridge between midwifery care and general osteopathy.

Pregnancy massage: top tips

Top tips

  • The “Check-In” Appointment: Consider a “post-birth check” for both you and your baby within the first few weeks. Even if there are no obvious concerns, ensuring everything is aligned can prevent future discomfort.
  • Hydration is a Team Effort: If you are breastfeeding, your hydration levels directly affect your soft tissue health. Keep a large bottle of water nearby during every feed to help your muscles recover.
  • Mindful Lifting: Whether it’s a car seat or a growing toddler, always “exhale on the effort.” Breathing out as you lift helps protect your pelvic floor and core muscles.
  • Observe Your Baby’s Favourites: Take note if your baby always sleeps with their head turned to one side or seems to struggle to latch on one breast. These are helpful “clues” for your osteopath.
  • Be Kind to Yourself: Recovery isn’t a race. Some days you will feel strong, and other days you will feel the fatigue. Listen to your body and don’t hesitate to adjust your activity levels accordingly.
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We are based in 3 locations in Surrey:

  • Dapdune House: central Guildford location with free onsite parking
  • Willow Health Therapy Rooms: Stoughton, Guildford with free onsite parking
  • Surrey Holistic: Godalming

We are open Monday – Saturday and every other Sunday. If you have any further questions, please do get in touch.

Want to find out more?

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Get in touch with Esther directly to request an appointment. You can find out more about her at www.estherholford.com

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