Pregnancy can be a rollercoaster of emotions and physical changes, so it’s essential to find ways to stay comfortable and healthy. One of the best-kept secrets for a smoother pregnancy is prenatal chiropractic care. In this article, we’ll explore the impact of chiropractic care on labor and delivery. Let’s get started!
Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy
Chiropractic care during pregnancy has many benefits for expectant mothers. Regular chiropractic adjustments can help relieve joint pain and pressure on the abdomen caused by the extra weight of the growing baby. Chiropractic care can also help improve the function of the nervous system, which is important for the overall health of both the mother and baby.
Prenatal chiropractic care can also help expectant mothers maintain their ability to have a natural birth. By maintaining proper alignment of the spine and pelvis, it limits the likelihood that there are “bumps” along the birth canal that would block the baby from getting down. This makes it easier for the mother to deliver the baby without the need for interventions such as cesarean sections or the use of forceps/vacuum extraction.
The Webster Technique
The Webster Technique is a form of chiropractic care that is specifically designed for pregnant women. This technique helps balance the pelvic muscles and ligaments, which can become strained during pregnancy due to the weight of the growing baby. By balancing the pelvic muscles and ligaments of the mother, the Webster Technique can help encourage the baby to be in an optimal birth position, making it easier for the mother to deliver the baby without the need for interventions.
Success Rate of Prenatal Chiropractic Care
Studies have shown that expectant mothers who receive chiropractic care throughout their pregnancies have a higher success rate of having a natural birth. In one study, it was found that expectant mothers who received regular chiropractic care were less likely to require cesarean sections and had shorter labor times compared to expectant mothers who did not receive chiropractic care.
What to Expect During a Prenatal Chiropractic Visit
If you are considering prenatal chiropractic care, you may be wondering what to expect during your first visit. During your first visit, your chiropractor will ask questions about your pregnancy and your health history. They will also perform a physical exam to determine the best course of care for you.
Prenatal chiropractic initial visits typically last 30 minutes to an hour. During the visit, your chiropractor will use gentle, safe, and non-invasive techniques to adjust your spine and pelvis. The adjustments are tailored to your individual needs and are specifically designed to be safe for you and your baby.
It is important to note that prenatal chiropractic care is not just limited to the spine and pelvis. Your chiropractor may also adjust other parts of your body, such as your arms and legs, to help improve your overall balance and alignment.
The Importance of Continuing Chiropractic Care After Delivery
Prenatal chiropractic care is not just important during pregnancy, but also after delivery. After delivery, your body undergoes many changes as it adjusts to the new demands of motherhood. Chiropractic care can help you recover from the physical demands of childbirth and improve your overall health and well-being.
In addition, chiropractic care can also help improve the function of your nervous system, which is important for the health of both you and your baby. By continuing chiropractic care after delivery, you can ensure that your body is functioning optimally, which can help you feel your best as you adjust to your new role as a mother.
Prenatal chiropractic care with a qualified chiropractor who is certified in the Webster Method can have a significant impact on your labor and delivery. By helping to balance the pelvic muscles and ligaments, and by improving the overall health of the mother and baby, chiropractic care can make the labor and delivery process easier and more successful. If you are pregnant or know someone who is, encourage them to consider receiving chiropractic care throughout their pregnancy for the best possible outcome.
Looking for a Webster Certified Chiropractor?
Dr. Alison Day can help! At Better Day Chiropractic, we’re dedicated to serving you throughout your pregnancy and postpartum recovery. We also offer sports, family, and pediatric chiropractic care. If you are located in Charlotte or the surrounding areas, reach out to us today.
