Why should I have chiropractic care during pregnancy?

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 joints:

• Protruding abdomen and increased back curve

• Pelvic changes

• Postural adaptations

What are the benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy?

Chiropractic care during pregnancy can provide benefits for women who are pregnant. Potential benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy include:

• Maintaining a healthier pregnancy

• Controlling symptoms of nausea

• Reducing the time of labor and delivery

• Relieving neck, back, sciatic nerve or joint pain

Establishing pelvic balance and alignment is another reason to obtain chiropractic care during pregnancy. Sacral subluxation (misalignment) may contribute to these three primary causes of dystocia (difficult labor) via uterine nerve interference, pelvic misalignment and the tightening and torsion of specific pelvic muscles and ligaments.  The resulting tense muscles and ligaments and their aberrant effect on the uterus may prevent the baby from comfortably assuming the best possible position for birth.

Currently, the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) recommends that women receive chiropractic care throughout pregnancy to establish pelvic balance. With a balanced pelvis, babies have a greater chance of moving into the correct position for birth. Optimal baby positioning at the time of birth also eliminates the potential for dystocia (difficult labor) and therefore results in easier and safer deliveries for both the mother and baby.