Women's Health Level 1 unit C - 3day block -Obstetrics and initial-post partum BRISTOL, 27-28 Feb+1mar '25

This introductory level course is to help all osteopaths become better equipped to begin their osteopathic journey into women's health.  Lots of anatomy and physiology, lots of osteopathic concepts, and integration of neurophysiology, fluids, organ and somato-visceral integration dynamics, posture and movement from an organ perspective, and women's health across the lifespan (including pregnancy, post partum and menopause / the third age).  The four linked programmes cover everything from general urognynaecology and conditions such as endometriosis, to conception, pregnancy, labour and delivery, post partum, pelvic health, scarring, menopause, prolapse, breast problems, and working with older women.  

This is the first of four linked units, that can be done together, or as stand alone elements. The level one programmes will include esxternal area pelvic floor, work, but internal work and complex cases are only discussed in the level 2 women's health series. 

It is designed for early career osteopaths, or those starting their women's health journey, but as it is so packed with evidence and clinical insights, it will suit any osteopath, even if eperienced in visceral / pregnancy care.  The four programmes follow on from each other, but can be done as stand alone units. 

This THIRD programme covers the dynamics of pregnancy and the peripartum period.  It looks at the physiology of pregnancy, postura and biomechanical and tissue changes in pregnancy and implckations for hands-on work.  Considers the dual-person dynamics - and how to work with 'two people at once-' Covers intial assessment / examination and considers implications for various painful and movement affecting dynamics.  Looks at latered gravity and postural alignment issues, looks at the changing pressures in the body davities, and implciations for visceral function and fluid drainage. Discusses musulr dyamics such as elvc floor and abdominal tone.  Reflects on how the 'uterine ligament' story may not be accurate, gives fresh insight into optimal foetal positoning and frames this within a sensory experiencig dynamic.  Looks  at labour and delivery, birth strain and injury for the mother, and considers intial post partum care for various tyes of birth, such as normal vaginal, assisted and caesarian.

Day one includes an introduction to biomechanics, posture and tissue changes in pregnancy, day two covers physiology in pregnancy and optimal foetal positioning, day three includes initial screening and evaluation, and labour and delivery issues, and intial post partum care.  Risks and benefits of oseopthic care are discussed.

The course uses extensive evidence base, introduces new concepts and does not rely on one treatment modality.  This course does not teach 'cranial', but instead teaches you how to interact with physiology and the emergent nervous system through applying traditional osteopathic concepts through touch and gentle tissue exploration.  For osteopaths - you will be asked for your osteopathic registration after enrolment.  Final year students can apply.  Exact venue details after enrolment.

These units form part of the face to face teaching componets of the Certificate and Diploma programmes in Women's Health, delivered by Caroline through her postgraduate College, the CNMO.  For details of that programme, click link for overview pdf on the main events page, or visit cnmo.co.uk