Osteopathy and Cranial Osteopathy can be helpful in understanding why a couple may be experiencing difficulty in achieving conception. Couples discuss their concerns in depth which gives the Osteopath time to explore their health from an Osteopathic perspective, along with a gentle examination using the principles of treatment unique to Osteopathy, applying gentle touch to receive information from the body to know where there may be restriction or ‘blocks’ in the anatomy and physiology which may prevent optimal expression of health. Osteopathic techniques can be helpful in supporting the health in a way that disturbance in physiology may be alleviated and resolved.Pregnancy is a time of rapid change in the physiology of mother and baby, including changes in mother’s posture, so the wise and gentle touch of the Osteopath can help to resolve spinal discomfort; bladder irritability and digestive difficulty e.g. heartburn or nausea by supporting the physiologic adaptations the mother and baby are making. Posture changes can be supported by gentle Osteopathic techniques. During different stages of pregnancy and baby’s growth, the pelvic girdle and spine adapt accordingly. These natural changes can become more difficult if there are underlying strains in the body making it harder for the body to adapt easily, and ‘pubic symphysis dysfunction’ or ‘pelvic girdle dysfunction’ can occur. Gentle osteopathic techniques can be used to enable the release of strain and restriction so the body can make these natural changes more comfortably. Osteopathy can be helpful where a mother experiences miscarriage by supporting the physiologic processes and providing emotional care for well-being.What to expect?A gentle, detailed and comprehensive case history is taken and you may be asked to undress to underwear for physical examination. A chaperone can be provided. Time is taken to gently assess posture, the musculo-skeletal system and underlying health, using clinical tests and the palpation skills of the Osteopath. The Osteopath can contact, with written consent the midwife, GP or health visitor to share relevant information to ensure optimal health.Osteopaths complete 4 or 5 years full time training with a comprehensive study of anatomy and dissection, physiology, pathology, neurology, clinical medicine, and Osteopathic principles and practice alongside completion of thousands of hours of clinical training prior to graduation. In the UK, Osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council and adhere to a strict code of ethics, hold professional insurance and be committed to their continue professional training.Carolyn McGregor is a Registered Osteopath with the General Osteopathic Council and a Registered Homoeopath with the Society of Homeopaths specialising in Cranial Osteopathy for Pregnancy, Labour, the New-born and Older Child and teaches in this field.18 Florence Place, Newlyn, Penzance. TR18 5PThttp://www.osteopathy.org/practice/newlyn-osteopaths/