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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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