Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is an incredible journey that is also the most physically and mentally demanding thing anyone can do. As the body changes to accommodate a growing baby, many experience discomfort, pain, physical and mental stress, and even increased anxiety about labor. One powerful, natural solution that more and more expecting moms are turning to is chiropractic care.
Not only can regular adjustments help reduce pregnancy-related aches and pains, but science also shows it supports a smoother, faster delivery. Here's how.
The Pregnant Body: A Shifting Foundation
During pregnancy, the body releases a hormone called relaxin, which helps loosen the joints and ligaments to prepare for childbirth. While this is necessary, it can also lead to instability in the pelvis and spine, increasing the chances of pain and stress in the body.
As the baby grows, the mother’s center of gravity shifts forward, placing additional strain on the lower back and pelvis. This can cause subluxations or, misalignments in the spine or joints, that affect how the body functions and adapts to pregnancy.
The Science: How Chiropractic Supports Birth
Chiropractic care focuses on maintaining proper movement and placement of the spine and pelvis, which plays a key role in a healthy pregnancy and delivery. One of the most researched techniques in this field is the Webster Technique, which is specifically designed to optimize pelvic balance and reduce intrauterine constraint. This is important because:
A balanced pelvis creates more room for the baby to move into the optimal head-down position.
Proper movement allows the nervous system to communicate efficiently with reproductive organs, helping the body function more effectively during labor.
According to the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, women receiving chiropractic care during pregnancy had a 25% shorter labor time on average. For those who had multiple births, that number jumped to 31%.
Another study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that back pain relief from chiropractic care led to improved mobility and lower pain levels, which also correlated with less stress and smoother deliveries.
Benefits of Prenatal Chiropractic Care
Reduced Back, Hip, and Joint Pain
Gentle adjustments relieve pressure from misaligned joints and nerves, offering drug-free pain relief.Better Pelvic Alignment for Delivery
A properly aligned pelvis gives the baby more space to move into the correct position, reducing the likelihood of breech presentation or complications.Improved Nervous System Function
The spine houses the central nervous system. When it's getting proper movement and stimulation, communication between the brain and body is optimal which is crucial during labor when the body needs to coordinate contractions and delivery.Shorter, Easier Labor
By reducing physical stress, optimizing baby positioning, and allowing the body to function as designed, chiropractic care can help make labor faster and less intense.Increased Comfort Throughout Pregnancy
As your body changes week by week, chiropractic care can help you adapt with greater ease, improving sleep, mobility, and mood.
Safe, Gentle, and Tailored to You
Ability Doctors who specialize in prenatal care use specific techniques that are safe and comfortable for both mom and baby. These adjustments are gentle and don't involve twisting or forceful movements. Just safe, precise, targeted care to help your body feel and function at its best.
Better Birth Begins with Adjustments
Your body is brilliant and naturally knows exactly what it needs to do, but that doesn’t mean you have to go through it alone or in discomfort. Chiropractic care offers a proactive, holistic way to support your health and give your baby the best possible start.
Whether you're in your first trimester or nearing your due date, it’s never too late to begin prenatal chiropractic care. Give us a call or schedule below to learn how this natural, science-backed approach can help you feel empowered, strong, and ready for birth.