“It’s all about staying active”

In her 17 years as an independent midwife, Maria Werner has learned the following: If pregnant women are in pain, they must be taken seriously, you need to give them advice, and look for simple, practical solutions together.

“I support women during their pregnancies where pain may occur: at home, during everyday activities, between family and work. For back or pelvis pain, movement is usually the first approach – stretching, mobilizing, little exercises to balance out the body again.
I also use taping and recommend physiotherapy as well as osteopathy. If strain increases nevertheless, the symphysis hurts, the belly gets heavier, or the back becomes more hollow, I recommend asking the gynecologist or family physician about medical products. A lumbar brace, such as the Spinova Mum, supports the belly, stabilizes the pelvis, and relieves the back. It allows women to move more freely again. And we know from practical experience: Be it general exercise, yoga, cycling, or swimming – those who are consistently moderately active usually have an easier time during pregnancy.

The feeling of stability which the Spinova Mum conveys is also a factor. I’ve had clients who, for their second or third pregnancy, even wore their brace whilst giving birth or during the postpartum period because it supports the loosened symphysis and the unstable pelvic girdle.
Exercise also helps when the legs become heavy or varicose veins develop. I show them exercises to activate the venous pump or massage techniques that stimulate lymph flow. Additionally, medical compression stockings provide beneficial support. Again, I can share my experience, but the physician makes the decision.
Whether brace or medical compression stockings: The key is that medical products don’t replace activity but complement it. They can provide the relief that’s missing in day-to-day life. When used correctly, they allow a lot of women to stay active – and that’s exactly what is needed during pregnancy.”

“When is intervention necessary?“ – Read more about the provision of medical aids during pregnancy in the expert article with gynecologist Dr. Susann Jäkel.

Lumbar brace for pregnant women: Spinova Mum
The Spinova Mum has been primarily designed to gently treat back and pelvic pain during pregnancy and postpartum regeneration. The brace provides three kinds of relief. It provides lordosis reduction, it stabilizes the pelvis, and gently lifts the belly – using a unique strap system. Find out more.

Pictures: Bauerfeind AG