How can Chiropractic care help during Pregnancy?

Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy: Enhancing Comfort and Optimising Birth

Pregnancy brings about numerous hormonal and physical changes that can impact your neuromusculoskeletal system, leading to postural adjustments and discomfort in your spine and extremities. As your baby grows, it’s natural for your posture and centre of gravity to shift, potentially causing issues such as an increased curve in the lower back and changes in the pelvis as your body prepares for labour.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Many expectant mothers visit chiropractors to address common pregnancy-related issues and to support their body’s adjustment to these changes. Chiropractic care aims to enhance pelvic mobility and function, which is crucial for a smoother labour and delivery process. Improved pelvic alignment can contribute to reduced labour times and may help avoid interventions like forceps or vacuum extraction.

Regular chiropractic adjustments can also:

• Maintain a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy
• Relieve pain in the back, neck, hips, and joints
• Help control symptoms of nausea

Is Chiropractic Care Safe During Pregnancy?

Chiropractic care focuses on treating the neuromusculoskeletal system through hands-on techniques, such as adjustments, without the use of medications or surgery. Chiropractors are trained to safely adjust pregnant patients, using techniques that avoid abdominal pressure and employing special pillows to ensure comfort.

Optimising Your Birth

Ensuring balanced pelvic alignment can support a natural and efficient birth. Research shows that women who see chiropractors during pregnancy are less likely to need a cesarean section or experience premature birth. Chiropractors use gentle techniques to address pelvic joint dysfunction, aiming to improve biomechanical function and overall birth outcomes.

Tips for Managing Back Pain During Pregnancy

• Practice good posture as your center of gravity shifts.
• Wear supportive, low-heeled shoes.
• Lift objects properly by using your legs and keeping them close to your body.
• Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees and avoid sleeping on your back after 20 weeks.
• Stay active within your limits and maintain your nervous system health with regular chiropractic care.

Post-Birth Considerations

Just as chiropractic care supports a healthy pregnancy, it can also benefit your baby. The birth process can sometimes lead to spinal issues that may not be immediately apparent but could affect your baby’s well-being. Common signs of potential spinal issues in infants include irritability, poor sleep, and uneven head turning. A chiropractic check-up can help optimise your baby’s spinal health and support their overall development.

Pregnancy is a remarkable journey, and chiropractic care can play a key role in making it as comfortable and smooth as possible for both you and your baby.