The Benefits of Manual Osteopathic Therapy for Women’s Health & Fertility
Written by: Wency Zablan, Manual Osteopathic Therapist at Calgary Acupuncture Collective.
What is Manual Osteopathic Therapy (MOT)?
Manual Osteopathic Therapy (MOT) is a gentle, drug-free, non-invasive, hands-on therapy. I takes a holistic approach by treating the body as a whole rather than focusing on individual parts. My goal is to address the root cause of symptoms instead of simply treating the symptoms themselves.
MOT is grounded in principles that emphasize body unity, self-regulation, and the interconnection between structure and function and how these three factors always interplay with each other. For example, a client may come in for low back pain which, in some cases, may be caused by scar tissue in the pelvic area or a referral pain from an organ (e.g., kidney or uterus) that needs support. In this case, my approach would be to address the underlying root cause rather than treating the low back directly.
By using gentle techniques, MOT supports the body’s natural healing capabilities. These hands-on techniques may include:
Osteoarticulation and Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): To balance musculoskeletal restrictions through joint and fascial mobilizations by releasing limited joints
Myofascial Remodeling: To aid the release of fascial adhesions which then improve circulation and overall fluid flow
Craniosacral Therapy: To improve mobility of cranial and sacral bones, meninges, and assist the nervous system and circulation of all fluids
Visceral Manipulation: To support and increase the mobility and motility (function) of internal organs
Lymphatic Drainage: To release congested or toxic areas, enhance fluid flow and improve immunity..
Among other myriad benefits of Manual Osteopathic Therapy, its gentle and holistic approach is highly beneficial for women’s health and fertility.
Osteopathy for Women’s Health:
Menstrual Health: Helps soothe menstrual pain and other symptoms by promoting optimal blood flow, nerve function, and by releasing fascial adhesions around pelvic organs through visceral manipulation.
Hormonal Balance: Supports overall hormonal regulation by improving the function and motility of the liver and digestive system, both crucial for hormone production and balance.
Pelvic Mobility and Function: Enhances mobility and alignment of the pelvis, optimizing pelvic floor function and supporting endocrine gland activity. MOT can also address scar tissue in or around the pelvic region, promoting better fluid flow and reducing fascial restrictions. This is especially beneficial during pregnancy, postpartum or post-surgery recovery.
Complementary Treatment: Manual osteopathy works well alongside other treatments (e.g., IVF, IUI, acupuncture) due to its positive impact on the nervous system. This helps the body receive and integrate other treatments more effectively.
Osteopathy for Fertility:
Improved Pelvic Alignment: Realigns the pelvis, hips, uterus, pelvic floor muscles, and ligaments to ensure better nerve and blood supply to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. Visceral manipulation improves the motility of reproductive organs, which is crucial for conception.
Enhanced Circulation: Boosts blood and lymphatic flow in the pelvic region, supporting the delivery of vital nutrients and oxygen to reproductive organs.
Reduced Tension and Scar Tissue: Releases tension in the ligaments and muscles around the uterus, ovaries, and pelvic organs, and remodelling scar tissue that may hinder conception.
Stress Reduction: Alleviates both physical and emotional stress, which can positively influence hormonal balance and increase the chances of conception.
Support for Underlying Conditions: Assists in managing conditions such as endometriosis, hormonal imbalances, blocked fallopian tubes, and PCOS by addressing underlying structural and functional imbalances.
Preparing your body for pregnancy requires a strong foundation of circulation, alignment, and nervous system regulation. In my work as an osteopath, I focus on creating that foundation so your body can function at its best and feel supported every step of the way.
If you’re on a fertility journey, I would be honoured to support you. Book an osteopathy session with me at Acupuncture Collective, and let’s work together to help your body feel balanced, supported, and ready.