Have you ever wondered if you should see a chiropractor while you are pregnant?  Some of our favourite patients are moms-to-be and the newest additions to their families. Dr. Brad and Dr. Sarah are certified in Webster Technique and have advanced training in pediatric care to provide Peterborough Families with natural health care from Day 1.

By allowing your body to be in the healthiest state possible during pregnancy, you are providing the ideal environment for your baby to grow and reducing the rate of complications that can arise during pregnancy and labour.

 WHY WOULD YOU SEE A CHIROPRACTOR DURING PREGNANCY?

During pregnancy, there are several physiological and hormonal changes that occur in creating the environment for the developing baby. A mother’s weight gain will typically reach between 30-40 lbs., which often leads to postural distortions. As her center of gravity shifts forward to accommodate a growing belly, the natural curves of the spine, particularly in the lumbar region, become exaggerated. To stabilize the body, the hips may expand outwards, often putting pressure on the sacro-iliac (pelvic) joints. In preparation for childbirth, the hormone relaxin causes the ligaments, tendons and cartilage of the pelvis to soften and become more pliable. Unfortunately, these changes often result in back ache and pinched nerves. A doctor of chiropractic is trained to detect and gently correct spinal dysfunctions so that those precious nine months and beyond are comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

 CAN YOU DO ANYTHING ABOUT BREECH BABIES?

A common misconception is that chiropractors “turn” breech babies. What your chiropractor is actually able to do is assess and adjust the joints of the pelvis. The reason this is important is because the uterus is attached to the back and front of the pelvis by ligaments: the utero-sacral ligaments attach to the sacrum, and the round ligaments attach to the pubic bone. When the pelvis is not correctly aligned, it creates tension on these ligaments. Often when we adjust the pelvis, the resulting alignment and decrease in tension allows the baby greater space to move and we see that the little ones turn themselves over.

WHAT ABOUT LABOUR AND DELIVERY?

Adjusting women throughout their pregnancy is one of the most rewarding parts of our work because a healthier pregnancy means an easier labour and delivery, and a better transition for the baby. By aligning the pelvis and decreasing tension, the pelvis is allowed to open naturally which can help decrease pain and the length of labour. Studies have shown that women receiving chiropractic care throughout their first pregnancy had 24% shorter labour times than the group which was not adjusted, and multiparous women (those who have had more than one) reported 39% shorter labour times.

TALK TO YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER

More and more women are seeking the benefits of chiropractic care throughout pregnancy, so ask your primary health care provider to refer you to a trained chiropractor in your area. Most importantly, seek options that support your body’s natural abilities to function and enjoy wellness throughout your pregnancy and beyond.

Yours in health,

Dr. Sarah and Dr. Brad Wild