Application of Bowen Therapy by Sandra Gustafson.

Bowen Therapy offers unique and exciting possibilities in optimizing the outcome of both mother and baby in preconception, prenatal, labor, delivery and postpartum situations.

Pre-conception

Bowen Therapy is effective in regulating menstrual cycles and enhancing fertility in men and women. It has been said that many babies were dubbed “one of Tom Bowen’s children” because his treatment allowed previously infertile couples to conceive.

During Pregnancy

Bowen Therapy has been useful in managing morning sickness, fatigue, emotional fluctuations and the              body’s adaptation to pregnancy.

As the pregnancy progresses, it can be very helpful in relieving lower back pain, sciatica, hiccoughs,                 respiratory problems, even asthma and gastric discomfort such as heartburn and reflux, often                         eliminating the need for medications that may adversely affect the fetus. Bowen Therapy arrests preterm             labor by affecting relaxation of the pelvis, and often causes the fetus to shift away from the pelvic inlet, reducing pressure on the cervix.

One of the most important effects achieved with Bowen Therapy is in optimizing fetal positioning prior                     to birth.

Bowen therapy facilitates labor by inducing relaxation of the pelvic muscles and ligaments, allowing the baby’s head to enter more deeply into the birth canal.

During labor, Bowen Therapy is particularly helpful in managing the pain associated with increased                        pelvic pressure. Bowen moves performed in the area of the lower back, sacrum and upper anterior                        thighs relieve discomfort and encourage the birth of the baby. Once the second stage is reached, and the cervix is fully effaced and dilated, a specific move stimulates more efficient uterine contractions. All Bowen Therapy moves can be repeated as often as required during the birthing process. In the third stage of labor, a special move facilitates the delivery of the placenta. Once expelled, another move stimulates uterine involution and helps relieve perineal pain.

Bowen Therapy and the Newborn

In the early stages of extra-uterine life, Bowen Therapy can aid the newborn by triggering expectoration                   of any fluid or mucous it may have inhaled.

Bowen Therapy and Lactation

There are specific moves used to promote lactation and involution of the uterus. These also work to                  regulate the appropriate production of breast milk.