September 5, 2023
Pregnancy is a transformative time in a woman’s life, both emotionally and physically. As the body adapts to accommodate the growing baby, many women experience discomfort and pain, particularly in the back and spine. That’s where prenatal chiropractic comes in.
If you’re wondering if seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy is safe, our Clearwater chiropractor explains the benefits of chiropractic care while pregnant here.
What Is a Prenatal Chiropractor?
A prenatal chiropractor is a healthcare professional who specializes in providing chiropractic care to pregnant women. These practitioners are trained in techniques that focus on stretching, applying controlled pressure, and making specific joint manipulations. They understand the unique needs of pregnant patients and can tailor their treatments accordingly.
One commonly used technique for pregnant women is the Webster Technique. This method is specifically designed to ensure that the baby has enough room to move around and may even help turn breech babies. By adjusting the sacrum and gently massaging the round ligament, a prenatal chiropractor can relieve tension and create more optimal conditions for the baby’s position.
Is It Safe to See a Chiropractor During Pregnancy?
The safety of chiropractic care during pregnancy is a valid concern. However, when performed by a licensed and experienced prenatal chiropractor, it’s generally considered safe and effective.
Before you go, talk to your healthcare provider, like your OB/GYN, to ensure it’s right for you.
Benefits of Seeing a Chiropractor While Pregnant
- Alleviates Aches and Pains
- Improves Pelvic Alignment
- Enhances Nervous System Function
- Shorter Labor Times
- Postpartum Pain Relief
One of the most common reasons women seek chiropractic care during pregnancy is to alleviate back pain and discomfort. As the body undergoes significant changes to accommodate the growing baby, the increased weight and shifts in posture can strain the muscles and joints, leading to pain. Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve tension, decrease pressure on the joints, and provide much-needed relief from pregnancy-related aches and pains.
During pregnancy, the ligaments and muscles in the pelvic region can become strained and imbalanced, leading to discomfort and potential complications.
Prenatal chiropractic care focuses on aligning the spine, muscles, and joints, which can help improve the stability and functioning of the pelvic region. This alignment can alleviate pain and provide better support for the growing belly.
Chiropractic care can improve the nervous system’s overall function, which may positively affect various pregnancy-related symptoms. For example, some pregnant women experience nausea, particularly during the early stages of pregnancy. By working on the spinal cord and spinal nerves, chiropractors can potentially alleviate nausea and improve overall well-being.
Studies have shown that receiving chiropractic care during pregnancy can potentially shorten labor times. Proper spine and pelvis alignment may lead to decreased intrauterine constraint, allowing the baby to move more easily through the birth canal.
Women who have undergone chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy have reported labor times that are 25% to 31% shorter than those who did not receive chiropractic care.
Chiropractic care can also provide relief from postpartum pain. After giving birth, women may experience discomfort in the middle back and neck due to the sustained posture during breastfeeding. Chiropractors can address these issues and help alleviate pain, allowing new mothers to recover more comfortably.
How Often Should You Go to a Chiropractor While Pregnant?
How often you see a chiropractor during pregnancy depends on your needs. While there’s no fixed schedule, most chiropractors suggest going around once a month throughout pregnancy. However, if you’re in pain, additional visits may be necessary.
As mentioned, talk to your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy or medical conditions.
Avoid These Types of Posture and Positioning
As the body undergoes various changes to accommodate the growing life within, certain positions that were once comfortable may now pose risks. Below is a list of positions expectant mothers should avoid during pregnancy to promote safety, comfort, and overall well-being.
- Flat on your back after the first trimester
- Deep back bends and extreme twists
- High-impact activities and contact sports
- Deep squats and heavy lifting
- Extended periods of standing
- Cross-legged sitting and tailbone pressure
Prenatal Chiropractic Care in Clearwater, FL
If you’re seeking relief from pregnancy-related discomfort in your back, neck, or other areas, Family Life Chiropractic can help! With an impression track record spanning over 30 years, our experienced chiropractors, Dr. Jere and Dr. Philip, services Clearwater, FL, and the surrounding areas.
Call 727-447-4647 or contact us online to schedule a consultation today.
About the Author: With four decades of combined experience, Dr. Jere Jarrett and Dr. Philip Toft are highly educated and experienced chiropractors who serve Clearwater, FL, and the surrounding areas. They take a “whole-body” approach to chiropractic care, looking for the underlying cause of pain and discomfort instead of treating symptoms. Call 727-447-4647 to schedule an appointment.