Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

As many as 50% of women experience pain and discomfort during pregnancy. With a growing belly and changes in connective tissue health due to hormones, it’s no wonder that so many pregnant women are uncomfortable. While not all of the underlying causes of back and pelvis pain can be prevented during pregnancy, relief and better symptom management are possible with chiropractic care.

Is Chiropractic Safe During Pregnancy?

Any type of treatment during pregnancy should be approached with caution. However, the non-invasive approach of chiropractic care is considered safe for healthy low-risk pregnancies (even some higher risk ones if cleared by your doctor first). Since pregnant women aren’t able to take most medications or undergo other more invasive treatment options for pain, this often makes chiropractic care a perfect choice for effective pain management.

How Can a Chiropractor Help?

What exactly can a chiropractor do for you during pregnancy? Let’s review some of the top indicators:

• Pain management by restoring spine alignment and balance with adjustments
• Restore pelvic balance to improve mechanics with standing, sitting, and walking that could otherwise cause pain
• Improve energy levels and reduce any symptoms of nausea
• Optimize the pelvic position to allow for an easier birth
• Some evidence indicates a shorter labor time thanks to better pelvic position
• Improved blood perfusion and better movement for baby

What to Expect

You will start your chiropractic journey with an initial consultation. At this appointment, you can discuss any concerns with your chiropractor and they will do a full assessment of your history and alignment. From there, they can make recommendations for treatment to restore your body to it’s optimal balance. Often, the focus is on the pelvis. However, misalignments in the upper back and neck can also cause problems and need addressing (after all, it’s all connected!). Your chiropractor will continually monitor your symptoms and ask how you are feeling so that they can tailor your treatments to your specific needs and help you get the most possible relief.

Finding a Chiropractor

All chiropractors are able to provide safe adjustments during pregnancy with your doctor’s clearance. However, if you want the best results there are two different options to consider. A chiropractor certified in the Webster Technique has been found to provide the best possible outcomes for promoting pelvic balance during pregnancy. If there isn’t anyone certified in this in your area, another great option is a chiropractor certified in Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP). This is because they use evidence based protocols to promote overall body balance via spine alignment. Finding a practitioner certified in one or both of these techniques will help keep you in the best possible hands during a delicate time in your life.

Many pregnant women simply accept pain as part of their journey. While it is sometimes inevitable, some suffering could be prevented with the right care. Get in touch with a trusted chiropractor today to see how they can help.