Neck pain, headaches and postural strain after pregnancy

Pregnancy and early motherhood bring many physical changes to the body. While much of the focus is often placed on the lower back and pelvic area, many women also experience neck pain, headaches, shoulder tension, and postural discomfort during pregnancy and after giving birth.

At the Headache Neck and Jaw clinic, we regularly support pregnant and post-partum women experiencing these common concerns through gentle physiotherapy treatment, posture education, and tailored management strategies.

The Role of Hormones During and After Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body produces hormones such as relaxin, which help prepare the body for birth by softening ligaments and increasing joint mobility. While this is essential during pregnancy, it can also reduce overall body stability, particularly in the neck, shoulders, pelvis, and lower back.

These hormonal effects may continue for several months after birth, especially while breastfeeding.

Combined with physical changes, sleep deprivation, and the demands of caring for a newborn, this can contribute to:

These resources are designed to help support mums throughout pregnancy and early motherhood with practical advice and education.

- Neck pain and stiffness
- Tension headaches
- Jaw tension and upper shoulder tightness
- Poor posture and muscle fatigue
- Increased strain while feeding or carrying the baby

How Posture Changes Affect the Body

As the body adapts during pregnancy, posture naturally changes. The growing abdomen shifts the centre of gravity forward, often placing extra stress on the neck and upper back.

After birth, many new mums spend long periods:

- Feeding baby
- Rocking or carrying baby
- Looking down during breastfeeding
- Lifting prams, capsules, and nappy bags
- Sleeping in awkward positions

Over time, these repetitive positions can lead to persistent muscular tension and discomfort.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Physiotherapy can help reduce discomfort and improve movement throughout pregnancy and the post-partum period through:

- Gentle hands-on treatment
- Neck and upper back mobility work
- Postural advice and ergonomic support
- Pregnancy-safe exercises and stretching
- Headache management strategies
- Breathing and relaxation techniques

Our goal is to help mums feel more comfortable, supported, and confident throughout this stage of life.

Pregnancy Support During Treatment

To ensure our pregnant patients are as comfortable as possible during treatment, we also provide and use specialised pregnancy support pillows during physiotherapy sessions. These pillows help support the body safely and comfortably, allowing mums-to-be to relax during treatment while reducing pressure on the hips, lower back and abdomen.

Your comfort and safety are always our priority.

Pregnancy Support Pillows

Many of our headache and migraine treatments require patients to lie on their tummy—but we know that’s not always easy during pregnancy or with breast tenderness. That’s why we offer pregnancy support pillows designed to help you lie comfortably and safely, even in the later stages of pregnancy. You can relax and focus on feeling better—while we focus on delivering the best care possible.

Treatment with pregnancy pillow at the Headache Neck and Jaw clinic — A pregnant patient being treated with the support of a pregnancy pillow at the Headache Neck and Jaw Clinic.

You Don’t Need to “Just Put Up With It”

Many women assume neck pain, headaches, and body tension are simply part of pregnancy or motherhood. While these symptoms are common, they are often very manageable with the right support and treatment.

If you are experiencing discomfort during pregnancy or after birth, our physiotherapy team is here to help. Book an appointment today.

Learn More About Pregnancy and Post-Partum Care

We also have additional information and resources available on our website covering: