As a Chiropractor, I know that you may be wondering if chiropractic adjustments are safe during pregnancy. Well, the answer is  “Most definitely!”  In fact, it’s a very smart idea to get adjusted while you are pregnant.

You’ve probably noticed that your body is going through quite a few changes, and these alterations will continue as your pregnancy progresses. One change that goes basically unnoticed is your body’s increased production of the hormone elastin. This hormone is designed to relax the tendons in your pelvis. This relaxation allows your pelvis more flexibility during the birthing process to make delivering your baby easier.

This process, though wonderful in assisting during labor, can produce much discomfort in the months leading up to the birth. As your pregnancy advances, more elastin is released, which allows your pelvis to become increasingly more unstable. Add to that the gradual increase in the size of your baby and uterus, and you have the recipe for severe low back pain. As a Chiropractor  who treats many different musculoskeletal challenges, I find that many pregnant women come into my office for symptoms associated with their pregnancy but, as a rule, the main complaint is low back pain.

One side benefit of having your spine and pelvis checked by a chiropractor regularly during your pregnancy is that there is proof that it can actually decrease labor time. Why? Simply put, if your pelvis is aligned properly, the muscles contracting during the labor process are more efficient because they don’t have to fight past misaligned joints.

Chiropractic adjustments are not only safe and beneficial in relieving the low back pain associated with pregnancy, but other symptoms like heartburn, nausea, swelling, and so on. And, if needed, a well-trained chiropractor can also help with a breached baby. This is done by using the Webster Technique, a low force technique to manipulate the uterus and get the baby into the proper position for delivery. (A simple Google search on the Webster Technique can give you much more information.)

If you are pregnant, you can feel confident in seeing your chiropractor. And, of course, I’d be more than happy to assist you. Chiropractic care can not only make you a lot more comfortable in the months of your pregnancy, but it can make your labor process easier as well!

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