The anticipation of the birth of a baby is an exciting period for an expectant mother, and Alexander Technique can help make pregnancy a more comfortable experience.

The dramatic change in a woman’s body throughout pregnancy and the anticipation of giving birth create considerable physical and emotional challenges for the mother-to-be. The added weight of the growing baby can cause women to excessively tighten and curve the lower back far more forward than need be, often resulting in lower back pain. Women often find it difficult to negotiate the changes to their centre of balance as their pregnancy develops. Misalignment of the spine and poor posture can result, which may exacerbate pelvic pain.

Alexander Technique can help pregnant women carry the weight of their baby and bring support over the feet. Women can learn to keep the integrity and wholeness of their backs and prevent pain associated with poor posture. In addition, the lengthening and widening of the back that results from Alexander Technique lessons creates an important counter to the strong downward pressure that results from the added weight in the lower front of the body.

As certain positions no longer become feasible, Alexander Technique teachers can help women to find the most comfortable ways to relax and sleep during their pregnancy. Attention can also be brought to the muscle tone around the hip area where optimal movement and mobility between the pelvic bones can facilitate an easier pregnancy and childbirth.