Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy: Why It’s Safe and Beneficial

Let’s face it, pregnancy can be pretty uncomfortable. You can defy your prepartum pain thanks to the benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy.

Why Women are Choosing Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

Chiropractic care during pregnancy has been shown to be safe and effective. Many women worry about putting undue stress on their precious belly. Due to this, chiropractic care for pregnant women has been flying under the radar for many years. If you’re an expecting mother, and want to make the right health decisions for your child to come, chiropractic care during pregnancy is not only good for you but also for the baby. The International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) offers chiropractic practitioners specialized training for pregnant women. At Arrowhead Health Centers, we offer industry-leading Chiropractic Wellness Programs, and have providers that are part of the ICPA. We want to make sure you’re comfortable and confident in all of your health decisions, so here’s what you can expect and how you can benefit.

Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy IS Safe

According to the American Pregnancy Association, “Chiropractic care is health maintenance of the spinal column, discs, related nerves and bone geometry without drugs or surgery.” It has been used to provide relief for over a century. The first documentation of manipulation being used in pregnancy and labor dates back to the early 1900s. In a recent case series, there were no adverse effects of chiropractic care during pregnancy. In cases other than a normal pregnancy (such as ectopic pregnancy, premature labor, placenta previa, and placenta abruption) chiropractic care during pregnancy may not be appropriate. Be sure to visit a chiropractor that is familiar with the needs of expectant mothers. Investing in pregnancy wellness is routine care for most of them, but it is important you choose someone that has been trained in the physical changes that happen during pregnancy. Some have received specific training and may specialize in prenatal or postnatal care. An exam and posture evaluation may be performed to further assess your particular needs. Some chiropractors make use of specialty tables that adjust for a pregnant belly. You can expect them to use techniques that avoid unnecessary pressure and harmful movement. Both studies and the experiences of countless women have shown that these elements make for a safe experience. (note: Be sure to consult your ob-gyn before seeking chiropractic care.)

Why Your Body Needs Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

As pregnancy advances, there are many changes that take place in the body. These changes create an enormous need for chiropractic care during pregnancy. As the abdomen grows, the curve of the back is increased and your center of gravity is lowered. This puts strain on the lower back, hips, and pelvis. Pregnancy stimulates increased levels of the hormone relaxin, which causes ligaments to relax. Without this, a baby wouldn’t be able to fit through the pelvis. The downside, though, is a decrease in spinal stabilization, and an increase in pain. Misalignment can also affect the nerve supply to multiple organs, causing them to not function as they should. Pelvic misalignment reduces the amount of room available for the baby and restricts the ability for the baby to move into the best position for delivery.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

Chiropractic care during pregnancy can realign the spine, relieving back, neck, or joint pain. This has also been shown to help control headaches and nausea symptoms. Along with undoing damage, it can also put your lower body into alignment for a healthier pregnancy and birth. Pelvic alignment is the key to a shorter, smoother birthing process. According to recent studies of women who received chiropractic care during pregnancy, those pregnant for the first time had shorter labor times of 25% and a 31% reduction was reported for those with their second or third pregnancy. When balance is established in the pelvis, it reduces undue stress to the uterus and surrounding ligaments. This ensures optimal fetal positioning while guarding against breech birth, c-sections, or other interventions.

Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy with Arrowhead Health Centers

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is an effective tool for expecting mothers, with such a wide range of benefits. Not only can it help with pregnancy pain relief, but it can also set the stage for a safe and healthy birth. Arrowhead Health Centers has everything you need to deliver a healthy baby, from prenatal health to post pregnancy treatment. If you are experiencing back pain, or would like to set up a chiropractic appointment, call us at (623) 777-5587.