Aquatic Therapy
Pregnancy and Babies in Breech Positions

Pregnancy is a time of transformation, both physically and emotionally. As your body adapts to nurture new life, finding moments of relaxation and relief becomes essential. Aquatic therapy, incorporating Watsu® and Aquatic Bodywork, provides expectant mothers with a gentle, nurturing space to ease tension, enhance mobility, and foster a deep connection with their growing baby.

What is Watsu® and Aquatic Bodywork?

Watsu® and Aquatic Bodywork are specialised forms of therapy performed in warm water, combining floating massage, gentle stretching, and mindful movement. The buoyancy and warmth of water relieves pressure on joints and muscles, promoting a deep sense of relaxation and comfort. This makes it particularly beneficial for expectant mothers as they prepare for childbirth.

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Benefits of Aquatic Therapy During Pregnancy

Stress and Tension Relief: The warm water and gentle movements encourage deep relaxation, reducing stress hormones and promoting a sense of calm.
Pain Reduction: Water supports the body, alleviating pressure on joints, the lower back, and pelvic muscles—especially helpful during the third trimester.
Enhanced Circulation and Oxygen Flow: Gentle movements improve blood flow, benefiting both mother and baby.
Increased Flexibility and Mobility: Aquatic therapy supports pelvic mobility and flexibility, preparing the body for childbirth.
Emotional Well-being: The calming effects of water help reduce anxiety and promote emotional balance during pregnancy.
Mother-Baby Connection: The womb-like environment of warm water provides a unique opportunity to bond with your baby, fostering a deeper sense of connection and well-being.

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A Gentle Approach To Encouraging Optimal Positions for Babies in Breech Positions

As the due date approaches, some babies remain in a breech position (bottom or feet first), which can create concerns for expectant parents. Aquatic therapy has been shown to encourage natural repositioning in a gentle, non-invasive way.

How Can Aquatic Bodywork Help Flip a Baby in Breech - Pain Free?

Pelvic Relaxation: The warm water and gentle movements promote relaxation in the pelvic area, helping to reduce tension and create more space for the baby to move.
Encouraging Natural Movement: Floating in warm water allows for subtle shifts in alignment, which may help encourage the baby to turn into an optimal head-down position.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety: A relaxed body and mind can positively impact the baby’s positioning by creating a stress-free environment for natural movement.

Although flipping cannot be guaranteed, many mothers have experienced success with aquatic therapy as part of their journey to a smoother, more comfortable pregnancy as well as birth experience. Aquatic therapy is pain free and is a great first option to try and encourage your baby to move out of breech positions naturally.

The Science of Connection: How Your Baby Experiences the Womb

From the moment of conception, your baby is deeply connected to your physical and emotional state. As pregnancy progresses, they begin to sense and respond to their environment in profound ways:

18 weeks: Your baby hears your heartbeat and the sounds of your body.
22 weeks: Their nervous system is developed enough to feel sensations such as pleasure and movement.
26 weeks: They respond to touch and familiar sounds, including your voice.
32 weeks: They begin to recognise patterns in speech and music, laying the foundation for early bonding.

Through Watsu® and Aquatic Bodywork, you can enhance this connection, enveloped in soothing warmth and movement that mirrors the sensations your baby experiences in the womb.

Why Choose Aquatic Therapy for Pregnancy?

Safe and Non-Invasive: Suitable for all stages of pregnancy, offering natural relief in a safe way, without medication or interventions.
Tailored to Your Needs: Each session is customised to support your unique pregnancy journey. Option for incorporating underwater music as part of your session is available if desired.
Led by Experienced Practitioners: Trained aquatic therapists understand the specific needs of expectant mothers, providing professional and compassionate care.

Postnatal Benefits: Supporting Recovery and Bonding

Aquatic therapy is not only beneficial during pregnancy but also after birth. Postnatal sessions can help promote healing, reduce stress, and support overall well-being as you navigate the early days of motherhood. Sessions may also be beneficial for new born babies, offering a gentle introduction to water and fostering a sense of security and comfort.

Potential Benefits of Postnatal Aquatic Bodywork and Watsu® Sessions:

Decreased stress and anxiety
Pain relief from post-birth recovery
Support for pelvic realignment and core strength
Improved sleep patterns and relaxation
Deepened parent-baby bonding
Reduction in postnatal depression symptoms

Experience the Benefits First-hand

Give yourself and your baby the gift of relaxation, connection, and preparation for birth. Whether you seek relief from pregnancy discomfort, a deeper emotional connection, or a gentle approach to encouraging optimal baby positioning, aquatic therapy can provide the support you need.