Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is one of the most life changing experiences for a woman, but it also comes with a slew of physical and emotional challenges. From morning sickness and fatigue to back pain, pelvic dysfunction, and postural changes, expectant mothers often struggle with a variety of issues throughout their pregnancy journey. Fortunately, chiropractic care offers a natural and effective way to provide relief and support during this special time.

As a chiropractor experienced in prenatal and pediatric techniques based in Midtown Manhattan, I’ve seen the amazing benefits that chiropractic adjustments can offer pregnant women. I will now try to explain why chiropractic care is not only safe but highly beneficial for expecting mothers, and how it can help create an environment for a healthier pregnancy and smoother delivery.

1. Alleviating Pain

The most common reason people seek chiropractic care is for pain relief. With pregnancy, the body must adapt to the growing baby, the center of gravity shifts, and hormonal changes can cause loose ligaments and joints. When ligaments aren’t doing their job of holding things together, muscles have to go into spasm to take up the slack.

Chiropractic adjustments help realign the spine and pelvis, reducing strain on the muscles and ligaments. This can alleviate many pregnancy-related pains, such as:

• Lower back pain: As the pregnancy progresses, postural changes and additional weight can strain the lower back. The lumbar discs can start to bulge, which can cause irritation of spinal nerves which can cause pain in the back and down the legs. Chiropractic care can help by realigning the spine and reducing nerve irritation.
• Pelvic pain: Pelvic misalignments can cause significant discomfort during pregnancy. Chiropractors use gentle techniques to restore balance and reduce pressure.
• Sciatica: The growing uterus can cause the piriformis muscle to spasm and put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing pain down the back of the legs. Chiropractic adjustments and stretching can help.

2. Fetal Positioning and Intrauterine Constraint

Being properly aligned helps create an environment so that the fetus can assume an optimal position for birth. In the case of a breech presentation, the Webster Technique, a gentle and specific protocol is performed to level the pelvis and reduce intrauterine tension. This can help the baby move into a more favorable position for delivery, which is especially important for women hoping for a natural birth.

3. Posture and Spinal Alignment

As pregnancy progresses, there is weight gain and changes in posture and alignment of the spine. Poor posture can contribute to a variety of issues such as neck pain, back pain, and headaches.  Chiropractic adjustments aim to correct these misalignments, improving overall posture and spinal alignment. This not only helps reduce pain but also supports the body’s ability to adapt to the physical demands of pregnancy. Better posture can also contribute to improved energy levels, reduced fatigue, and facilitate proper nerve and blood flow.

4. Common Complaints

Pregnancy usually is accompanied by other uncomfortable symptoms including nausea, headache, heartburn, and fatigue. While these symptoms are a normal part of pregnancy, chiropractic care can help alleviate them.

• Morning sickness: Chiropractic adjustments can help improve posture and reduce the tension that contributes to nausea. Many find relief from morning sickness after just a few chiropractic visits.
• Headaches: Hormonal changes, increased blood volume, and changes in posture can all trigger headaches during pregnancy. Chiropractic can help to relieve muscular tension in the neck and upper back, allowing for better blood flow and oxygen delivery to the head, leading to fewer and less intense headaches.
• Heartburn: As organs get pushed around during pregnancy, pressure on the digestive tract can lead to heartburn or acid reflux. Improving alignment and posture can help.

5. Improving Labor and Delivery

A common report from women getting chiropractic care throughout their pregnancy is that they often have smoother and shorter labors and deliveries. Proper spinal alignment, pelvic positioning and reduced muscular tension can help make things go much more easily.  Chiropractic adjustments can:

• Increased pelvic flexibility: A properly aligned pelvis allows for better movement and flexibility during labor and delivery.
• Reduced labor pain: Well adjusted women report being more relaxed and prepared for delivery and experience less pain.
• Improved contractions: A well-aligned spine that the nerves can function properly leading to more effective contractions and faster deliveries
• Posture and positioning: Chiropractors can help discuss better strategies for delivery like using gravity to your advantage.

6. Safety and Considerations for Pregnant Women

Chiropractic care is generally considered safe during pregnancy when provided by a trained and experienced chiropractor who specializes in prenatal care. It is so safe, that it is often recommended by midwives, doulas and obstetricians.  Chiropractors use gentle, non-invasive techniques to ensure the safety and comfort of both mother and baby.  They often use tables and pillows specifically designed to work with expecting moms.

Before beginning chiropractic care, it’s important to consult with your obstetrician or midwife to ensure there are no contraindications. A skilled prenatal chiropractor will be trained to adjust techniques based on the unique needs of each trimester, ensuring that care is tailored to your specific stage of pregnancy.

7. Choosing a Chiropractor in NYC

If you’re pregnant and considering chiropractic care in the New York City area, it’s important to choose a chiropractor who has training with the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. Look for a chiropractor with extensive experience working with expectant mothers and one who utilizes gentle, safe techniques like the Webster Technique. We offer a holistic approach to care, incorporating lifestyle counseling, stretching, and nutritional guidance to support a healthy pregnancy.  He also works with pelvic floor specialists and physical therapists who may be of additional help.

Chiropractic care offers a wide range of benefits for pregnant women, from alleviating pain and improving posture to supporting fetal positioning and promoting a smoother labor. With its natural, drug-free approach, chiropractic care can be an essential part of a healthy pregnancy journey.  If you’re in the NYC area and looking for expert prenatal chiropractic care, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office. We specialize in providing gentle and effective chiropractic adjustments tailored specifically to the needs of pregnant women. Schedule a visit today and take the next step toward a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy.

Dr. Adam Lamb
ICPA Trained
Webster Certified
Phone 212-883-8700
Email [email protected]
IG @lambchiro