Oh Baby! Using Chiropractic Care To Promote A Healthy Pregnancy

28 May 2015
 Categories: , Blog

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Pregnancy is notorious for wreaking havoc on the body. The plethora of pregnancy hormones and additional weight cause many women to suffer from an assortment of aches and pains. Utilizing regular chiropractic care is one way expectant mothers can help align the spinal column and pelvic area to reduce pregnancy related discomfort.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care during Pregnancy

The objective of chiropractors is to return the spine back to its appropriate alignment. It is believed that when the body is correctly aligned, the body is able to function at a higher level of efficiency. Morning sickness and joint pains are two ailments believed to be helped by chiropractic care.

During pregnancy, maintaining proper spinal alignment can help relieve pressure and pain throughout the body. When the body is aligned, the pelvis is able to expand more freely. This helps baby get into an optimal birthing position.

The use of a chiropractic adjustment known as the Webster technique is specifically recommended to help breech babies maneuver into a different position. This adjustment is also believed to aid the baby in entering the birth canal without obstruction, allowing the mother to have a shorter, easier birth.

Women interested in birthing their babies without pain medication should consider chiropractic care to reduce active labor times and help the labor process.

Your Appointment

A little preparation can ensure you are comfortable during your appointment and alleviate any anxiety. It is vital for pregnant women to have their obstetrician approve any new medical care, including chiropractic care.

Your chiropractor should have a table designed for pregnant patients. This table helps minimize pressure to the abdominal region. Patients in their third trimester of pregnancy should not lie flat on their back during adjustments. The weight of the uterus reduces the flow of blood both throughout the body and to the growing baby.

It is never too early or too late to see a chiropractor during pregnancy. Your chiropractor can help you come up with a care plan to help your body feel its best.

After the Appointment

To help keep the body in alignment, a pregnancy support belt may be worn. This garment lifts and cradles the belly to reduce pain.

Women should consult with their chiropractor to see if ice or heat should be used to alleviate any remaining pain.

Regular chiropractic care can encourage a healthy pregnancy with less pain and complications. Mothers interested in chiropractic care should find a chiropractor experienced in adjusting pregnant women. Whether the objective is a more comfortable pregnancy or a quicker birth, chiropractic care can help achieve that goal.