Pregnancy Chiropractic
Chiropractic care can be started at any time during pregnancy, and while it is safe for nearly every person to receive chiropractic care while pregnant, your chiropractor will still perform a thorough exam to ensure that your goals of care can be accomplished. The earlier someone starts chiropractic care in their pregnancy, the more likely they are to have ease in their body throughout their pregnancy, but that is not to say that you will not receive any benefit by coming in later during your pregnancy, or even only during the postpartum period.
Regardless of stage of pregnancy, a chiropractor who has trained to work with people during their pregnancy will likely incorporate the use of the Webster technique to give the most optimal assessment of the nervous system and pelvis.
Pregnancy is a time of profound physical and emotional changes for families. Ensuring the health and well-being of both mother and baby is of the utmost importance. Chiropractic care during pregnancy is focused on ensuring a healthy nervous system before, during, and after pregnancy. There are numerous benefits of pregnancy chiropractic care for mothers-to-be and their babies, and finding a chiropractor who has taken extensive training to work with this population is crucial in ensuring your goals of care are met.
During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes significant changes that can lead to various discomforts and imbalances. Chiropractic care focuses on the proper alignment of the spine and pelvis, helping to ensure optimal nervous system function. This is particularly important during pregnancy, as the nervous system plays a vital role in the development of the fetus and the overall health of the mother.
The Webster Technique & ICPA
The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment that aims to correct nervous system interference commonly seen through sacral and pelvic misalignments, all in order to help restore optimal function of the body. The Webster Technique is a gentle, non-invasive approach that is safe and beneficial for the pregnant mother, and in turn, the growing baby. All Doctors certified in the Webster technique have taken extensive training through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA).
The ICPA is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of families through chiropractic care. The ICPA focuses on education, research, and public awareness related to chiropractic care during pregnancy, infancy, and childhood. The ICPA provides training and certification programs for chiropractors, ensuring they have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide specialized care for pregnant women and children.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Pregnancy
Optimal Nervous System Function: As with chiropractic care with any other group, ensuring proper nervous system regulation is essential in facilitating health and wellness for the expectant mother. When interference is removed from the nervous system, the possibilities are endless when it comes to potential benefits for the mother-to-be.
Improved Pain Management: Pregnancy chiropractic care can alleviate common aches and pains associated with pregnancy, such as lower back pain, pelvic pain, and sciatica. Other common concerns which may be benefitted from proper alignment of the spine includes pains such as round ligament pain (also known as “lightning crotch”) and pubic symphysis dysfunction (SPD). By addressing misalignments in the spine and pelvis, chiropractic adjustments can help reduce discomfort and improve overall function.
Enhanced Mobility and Posture: As the body changes during pregnancy, maintaining proper posture and mobility can become challenging. Chiropractic care can help improve posture, balance, and mobility, making it easier for expectant mothers to move comfortably and safely throughout their pregnancy.
Chiropractic care during pregnancy can help prepare a woman's body for a safe and comfortable birth by promoting optimal alignment and function of the spine and pelvis. This has the potential to lead to a smoother, more efficient labor and delivery process.
After giving birth, chiropractic care can help support a woman's recovery by addressing any lingering spinal or pelvic misalignments that may have occurred during pregnancy or delivery. This can aid in reducing postpartum pain, promoting proper healing, and improving overall function and mobility.
Things to consider
When seeking a chiropractor for pregnancy care, it is essential to find a practitioner who has focused their training and experience in working with pregnant women. One way to ensure that your chiropractor is qualified to provide this specialized care is by looking for a practitioner who is certified by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). These chiropractors have completed additional training in pregnancy and pediatric care, ensuring they have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide the best possible care for you and your baby.
In addition to ICPA certification, it's essential to choose a chiropractor with whom you feel comfortable and confident. Take the time to consult with potential practitioners, ask questions about their experience, and discuss your specific needs and concerns. This will help you make an informed decision and find a chiropractor who is the right fit for you and your pregnancy journey.
Pregnancy Chiropractic care offers a safe, gentle, and effective way to support the health and well-being of both mother and baby throughout the entire pregnancy journey. By focusing on the proper alignment and function of the spine and pelvis, chiropractic care can help alleviate common pregnancy-related discomforts, and prepare the body for a safe and comfortable birth. With the support of a qualified pregnancy chiropractor and the incorporation of techniques such as the Webster Technique, expectant mothers can experience a smoother, more enjoyable pregnancy and a healthier transition into motherhood.