Chiropractic
and Pregnancy
Once pregnant and until the birth of her child a women takes all
the proper precautions to maintain her health and that of her child's.
This is when diet becomes important, alcohol, drugs, caffeine and
tobacco are eliminated from her routine. Regular exercise is encouraged
and educating yourself on how to raise a healthy baby are important.
However, most pregnant women are unaware of the benefits of chiropractic
and how it can make their pregnant months more comfortable and also
reduce the pain of labor and delivery, helping to ease the risk
of complications.
Is chiropractic safe during Pregnancy?
ABSOULTELY!
During pregnancy most women experience pain and discomfort as their
bodies adapt to many changes taking place inside. These changes
not only include hormonal changes but biomechanical changes as the
body deals with extra weight and changes to posture. Such changes
can affect our spine ultimately leading to complications with nerves,
joints, connective tissue, ligaments, posture and stability. At
Needham family chiropractic we monitor the events taking place with
your spine during pregnancy to ensure that complications are avoided
and your future spinal health remains optimal. Ensuring that the
spine, pelvis and nervous system remain in check is our focus. Being
free from subluxations allows you and your baby to function optimally.
Pregnant mothers free from subluxations experience greater comfort,
less pain, shorter labor and delivery times. As a whole these mothers
experience vitality and health throughout their pregnancy and are
better prepared to deal with the stress that childbirth can provide.
A common myth exists amongst the obstetrical community that chiropractic
has no role in the life of a pregnant individual. This could not
be further from the truth and has led to many myths regarding the
power of chiropractic. As a result, many have endured unnecessary
suffering during their pregnancy.
Once pregnant, women feel they must stop their chiropractic care.
This is not true. Regular adjustments can make pregnancy easier
and less stressful. In addition, delivery more comfortable with
less complications. Chiropractic care is a valuable part of pregnancy
and can be used safely throughout.
Chiropractic adjustments do not harm the pregnant mother or her
unborn child. In fact, maintaining a healthy spine and nervous system
throughout pregnancy can prevent further postural problems that
might occur during and following childbirth.
Chiropractic has documented benefits in reducing back and pelvic
pain during pregnancy. The application of chiropractic adjustments
during labour and delivery offer a safer method to reduce pain and
suffering, that are usually dealt with via pain-relieving drugs.
This ensures the safety of both the mother and child.
Can Chiropractic Aid with Breech Presentations?
The latest progress in chiropractic prenatal care is a technique
to correct breech presentation to ensure the proper positioning
of the baby prior to birth. Dr. L. Webster of the International
Chiropractic Pediatric Association, designed a technique to allow
chiropractors to release the stress on the pregnant pelvis, relaxing
the uterus, allowing the baby to turn naturally into the proper
birth position. A 94% success ratio has been noted with Breech turning
to allow for easy delivery.
After pregnancy?
Post-partum chiropractic care is a must to ensure pre-pregnant
status is achieved. Correcting subluxations within the spine and
pelvis are very important considerations to achieve and maintain
optimal health potential.
The 9th Month of Pregnancy
According to Parenting (1997) during this time frame, as your baby
descends into your pelvic cavity, you may experience sharp, stabbing
pains at the base of your spine or in the middle of your pelvic
bone. This creates uncomfortable twinges or "pins and needles"
in the cervix itself. Pain can radiate down your back or thighs.
The increased pelvic aches and pains are likely due to the relaxation
and stretching of your pelvic ligaments in preparation for labor.
These discomforts can be dealt with by changing positions. A chiropractor
experienced in working on pregnant people may be able to help with
pelvic adjustments to help balance the hips and pelvis. It is our
personal theory that chiropractic care in pregnancy can help to
avoid or relieve back pain and also prepare your back and pelvic
structures for the stresses of labor and delivery.
The 9th Month. W. Sears, MD, M. Sears, RN. Parenting, June/July
1997.
The safety of Epidurals for Newborns
A new study suggests that an epidural to numb the body from the
waist to alleviate the pain of delivery may have drawbacks. Women
requesting an epidural usually develop a fever during delivery,
signaling that their newborns may be ill. After, testing the newborn
proves to be infection free.
F.A.Q's About Pregnancy and Chiropractic
1. Is chiropractic safe during pregnancy?
Of course! A safe alternative to drugs is wonderful for both mother
and baby.
2. Is there a time in pregnancy when spinal adjustments should
stop?
No! Some women have even received chiropractic during labour to
aid in reducing pain with delivery.
3. Should I see a chiropractor if I only have a painful pregnancy?
No! Regular spinal screenings and updates should be common. Remember,
your body is changing in many ways and that can place a great deal
of stress on your spine and nervous system. So rather than wait
for problems to arise, prevent them by frequent visits to your chiropractor.
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