Pregnancy & Pediatric Care

Pregnancy & Chiropractic

Pregnancy & childbirth, without a doubt, are the most incredible, miraculous experiences that a woman can undergo. As parents, we take every precaution to protect the growing baby within and to ensure the best possible environment for his or her development. Chiropractic care is an integral part of this special time.

Chiropractic adjustments, specific to the special needs of pregnancy, ensure pelvic & spinal alignment, allowing optimum room for baby to grow and move. Chiropractors undergo special training to meet the needs of pregnant moms and their babies.

"As a mother, I can testify to the amazing benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy. The gentle techniques for pre-natal care helped to relieve aches and pains associated with my “growing bump” and allowed space for my baby's development. The births of my two girls were both natural, following my birth plan without the use of pain-relieving medications or interventions. I am grateful for this, and my fast post-partum recovery, which I attribute largely to my regular chiropractic care."

Benefits of Chiropractic Care during Pregnancy

Prepares the pelvis for an easier pregnancy and birth by creating a state of balance in pelvic bony structures, muscles and ligaments.
Removes tension on the ligaments that support the uterus thus reducing torsion & restrictions (intrauterine constraint) to the developing, growing baby.
Offers the baby optimal space to move into the best possible position for birth. With proper fetal positioning, there is a significant decrease in dystocia (defined as "abnormal progress in labor") and birth trauma.
Reduces interference to the mother's vital nervous system which controls and coordinates all of her systems & functions.
Allows for a safer, easier birth for the mother decreasing the potential for interventions.

Neuromuscular and Biochemical Changes During Pregnancy

Release of the hormone RELAXIN; Relaxin causes muscular and ligamentous relaxation. This in turn allows joints to shift in alignment, creating imbalances & symptoms such as sciatica (pain and/or numbness to the leg), low back pain, joint pain & increased muscle tension.
Increased Weight Gain & Weight Distribution
Increased demand and fatigue on spinal and pelvic muscles
Increased stress on spinal and pelvic ligaments
Postural alterations, increasing the lumbar and thoracic spinal curves and leading to further strain on the muscles, ligaments, joints and underlying nervous system
Increased joint stress and occurrence of vertebral and sacroiliac joint misalignments

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chiropractic Care Safe During Pregnancy?
Chiropractic care during pregnancy is safe for both mother and fetus. Spinal adjustments are especially gentle during pregnancy due to the presence of the hormone relaxin, causing muscle and ligamentous relaxation. Special "adjustive" positions are also used to provide comfort and safety for both mom and fetus.

How Often Should I Receive Chiropractic Care During My Pregnancy?
The frequency of care varies for a number of different reasons. Typically, regular care during a non-complicated pregnancy will range from once per week to once per month.

Chiropractic and Pregnancy Scientific Studies

Did you know that research supports a link between chiropractic care and shorter, less painful labors, with fewer complications and interventions?

Please refer to the International Chiropractic Pediatric Website, listed below, for the most current, comprehensive research data available.