The Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy & Recommendations for Adjustments

Jan 26

Chiropractic care is all about keeping your spine and nervous system healthy, which becomes even more important when you're pregnant. Your body goes through a lot of changes during pregnancy, especially in your spine and pelvis. Let's talk about how chiropractic adjustments can help ease discomfort and improve your posture, making things better for both you and your baby.

As your baby grows, your body changes to accommodate them, and keeping your spine aligned is crucial. Even small misalignments can cause issues like headaches or leg pain. Chiropractic care can help fix these problems, bringing balance back to your body and making you feel better overall. Plus, your center of gravity shifts during pregnancy, which can affect your posture, but regular adjustments can help you stay comfortable and balanced.

Chiropractic care isn't just about relieving pain. It also supports your body's natural ability to heal and maintain balance. When your spine is aligned, your nervous system works better, which can boost your immune system and energy levels. This extra energy can make a big difference in how you feel during pregnancy, helping you handle daily challenges more easily.

How Often Should You See a Chiropractor During Pregnancy?

Regular chiropractic visits can be incredibly beneficial during pregnancy. Here's a general guideline for how often you might consider seeing a chiropractor:

First Trimester: Once a month.
Second Trimester: Twice a month.
Third Trimester:
- First six weeks: Once a week.
- Last six weeks: Twice a week.

If your baby is in a malposition, as determined by your obstetric professional, the frequency of visits may increase:

20-28 Weeks: Once a week.
28-36 Weeks: 2-3 times a week.
36 Weeks and Onward: Daily.

How Chiropractic Care Helps with Common Pregnancy Discomforts

Pregnancy can come with a lot of physical discomforts like back pain, hip pain, and sciatica. Let's look at how chiropractic techniques can safely and effectively relieve these issues for expectant moms.

Lower back pain is super common during pregnancy and can really affect your daily life. Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve pressure in your lower back, reducing pain and improving your ability to move. Many moms-to-be feel instant relief after an adjustment, which can help them enjoy their pregnancy more. Techniques like the Webster Technique can also help with pelvic pain by aligning your pelvis and spine.

Sciatica, which happens when the sciatic nerve gets compressed, can cause sharp, burning pain down your legs. Chiropractic care focuses on relieving this pressure, helping your nerve function better and easing the pain. Regular adjustments can also prevent pelvic girdle pain, keeping you more comfortable as your pregnancy progresses.

Every pregnancy is different, so having personalized chiropractic care can be really helpful. A chiropractor can assess your specific needs and create a plan that works best for you.

How Chiropractic Care Prepares Your Body for Labor

Getting ready for childbirth is a big part of pregnancy. Here's how chiropractic adjustments can help align your pelvis and improve flexibility, creating the best environment for labor.

As you get closer to your due date, keeping your pelvis aligned is key. Misalignments can make labor harder and might lead to complications. Chiropractic care helps realign your pelvis, which can make it easier for your baby to move into the birth canal. This alignment can lead to a shorter, less painful labor and a smoother delivery.

Studies show that women who get regular chiropractic care during pregnancy often have easier labors. Proper alignment can help your contractions work more efficiently and might reduce the need for interventions. Many moms share stories about how chiropractic care was a huge help in their positive birth experiences.

Clearing Up Myths About Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

Even though chiropractic care is becoming more popular, there are still some misconceptions about it during pregnancy. Let's clear up some of these myths with facts.

One common myth is that chiropractic care isn't safe during pregnancy. In reality, when done by a qualified professional, it's safe and can be very helpful. Chiropractors often use special tables and techniques to make sure you're comfortable and safe during treatment. Many pregnant women find that chiropractic care not only eases pain but also helps them relax and feel better overall.

Another myth is that chiropractic care is just for back pain. While pain relief is a big benefit, chiropractic adjustments support your whole body by improving nervous system health. This can lead to better digestion, more energy, and even a better mood—all of which are important during pregnancy when your hormones can make things feel a bit up and down.

Finding the Right Chiropractor for Your Pregnancy

Choosing the right chiropractor can make a big difference in your experience. Here are some tips to help you find the right one, focusing on their qualifications, experience, and techniques.

Look for a chiropractor who has experience with prenatal care. The best ones have extra training in treating pregnant women and know the safest techniques to use. Check if they mention their expertise in pregnancy care, as this usually means they understand the changes your body is going through.

Ask about their techniques and make sure they focus on keeping you comfortable during adjustments. A good chiropractor will talk to you about what feels right and will check in to make sure you're not in any discomfort. Reading reviews from other patients can also give you a good idea of what to expect and help you make an informed choice.

Trust your instincts—a supportive and caring environment is important. If a chiropractor makes you feel heard and respected, it's a good sign that you've found the right person to help you through your pregnancy journey.

If you're in Jacksonville, we have a list of Webster-certified chiropractors on our resources page who specialize in prenatal care. This certification ensures they have the expertise to provide safe and effective care for pregnant women.

Enjoy a More Comfortable Pregnancy with Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care can be a great resource during pregnancy, helping to ease discomfort and improve your overall experience. By working with a qualified chiropractor, you can have a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy, setting the stage for a beloved birth & beyond.

Natalie Portman