Integrated Health > Lifestyle > Pregnancy

Pregnancy and Chiropractic

Chiropractic care throughout pregnancy and birth is safe and effective at relieving the discomforts experienced during this exciting time. It helps keep mom feeling good and assists her in coping with the physical stresses of an ever changing body. During pregnancy, the mother will encounter postural changes with increased pressure on the spine and pelvis in addition to hormonal changes and chemical reactions --all of which are controlled and coordinated through the nervous system.

Remember:

The nervous system is the master communication system to all the body systems including the reproductive system.

Keeping the spine aligned helps the entire body work more effectively.

When the pelvis is misaligned, it may reduce the amount of room available for the developing baby. This restriction is called intrauterine constraint. A misaligned pelvis may also make if difficult for the baby to get in to the best possible position for delivery.

Chiropractic care during pregnancy will establish pelvic balance and alignment which will result in an easier pregnancy and assist the new mother back to prepartum health.

During pregnancy, there are several physiological and endocrinological changes that occur in preparation for creating the environment for the developing baby. The following changes could result in a misaligned spine or joint.

Increased joint stress
Low back pain
Pelvic changes
Postural adaptations
Sciatica
Headaches

Benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy can:

Correct vertebral misalignment and relieve pressure with gentle and effective adjustments.
Help ensure that pelvic bones are properly aligned, facilitating a quicker, easier delivery.
Re-establish the natural position and mobility of the joints.
Provide freedom from interference of normal nerve energy which is vital for the development of a healthy baby and mother.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is Chiropractic Care Safe During Pregnancy? Chiropractic care during pregnancy is safe for both mother and fetus. Spinal adjustments are especially gentle during pregnancy as far less force is required to correct misalignments. This is due to the increase in hormones causing significant muscle and ligamentous relaxation.

How Often Should I Receive Chiropractic Care During My Pregnancy? The frequency of care varies for a number of different reasons. Typically, regular care during a non-complicated pregnancy will range from once per week to once per month.
Regular chiropractic care is an integral part of the prenatal and postpartum care during pregnancy.

RESOURCES

Mothering Magazine
http://www.mothering.com/

Laleche League
www.lalecheleague.org