There is no set schedule recommended for chiropractic care during pregnancy. In general, visits to your chiropractor can be scheduled on a monthly basis, or as needed, to manage minor pregnancy discomfort and prevent common problems from occurring.
Understanding When to Schedule Chiropractic Appointments During Your Pregnancy
Your chiropractor, in concert with your OB/GYN physician, can help you determine the best schedule for treatments.
Scheduling Appointments by Trimester
Pregnancy is broken up into 3-month periods called trimesters. Each trimester may involve different areas of discomfort and different types of treatment.
First Trimester: What to Expect
According to the Healthline site, chiropractic care can help to relieve back and pelvic discomfort, as well as helping to reduce nausea during early pregnancy.
Second Trimester: Frequency of Visits
Increasing weight, the shift in the body’s center of gravity and effects of pregnancy hormone on joints can lead to discomfort in various areas of the body.
Third Trimester: Timing and Techniques
The enlarging uterus can also lead to back pain and pressure on the sciatic nerve. Adjustment and soft tissue techniques can relieve discomfort.
The Importance of Early Chiropractic Care in Pregnancy: What You Should Know
According to the American Pregnancy Association, chiropractic care has many benefits for the pregnant woman, including relief from nausea, improved back, easier labor and lowered risk of Caesarean section.
Safety Considerations
Your chiropractor will adjust the force and type of techniques used to produce the highest level of relief with the greatest safety.
Consulting with Healthcare Providers
Pregnant women are advised to consult with their OB/GYN providers. This measure will ensure safety throughout the pregnancy both for the woman and for her developing child.
Appropriateness of Chiropractic Care Throughout Pregnancy
Chiropractic care can help manage a variety of physical issues and often eliminates the need for pain medications to relieve discomfort.
Types of Chiropractic Techniques for Pregnant Women
Chiropractors generally use gentler techniques for pain relief during pregnancy.
Prenatal Adjustments
Spinal adjustments help the body to align properly as the body changes during pregnancy.
Soft Tissue Techniques
Chiropractors often use soft tissue techniques, such as myofascial release, gentle stretching and massage to relieve discomfort.
Activator Methods
The activator method uses a hand-held instrument to deliver pressure to specific areas of the spine.
: Webster Technique
Webster technique is an adjustment to the sacral spine that helps improve pelvic floor function.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy
Pregnant women can benefit in a variety of ways from chiropractic care.
Alleviating Pain
Chiropractic relieves discomfort without the use of harsh pain relieving drugs.
Reducing Nausea
Chiropractic care can improve body function to reduce nausea during pregnancy.
Assisting with Baby Repositioning
Chiropractic treatment helps to keep the spine and ligaments flexible, which can support normal positioning of the fetus.
Frequently Asked Questions
When to start going to a chiropractor while pregnant?
You can undergo chiropractic treatment as soon as you know you pregnant.
How do I know when to take my baby to the chiropractor?
You can safely bring your baby for gentle chiropractic care one month after birth.
Does insurance cover chiropractic during pregnancy?
Health insurance often covers chiropractic care during pregnancy. Check with your insurance carrier to determine if it is covered.
What are the pros and cons of chiropractic care during pregnancy?
Chiropractic care can reduce back, hip and joint pain without the use of harmful medications. However, it is not always covered by health insurance and may lead to additional healthcare costs.
What to look for in a pregnancy chiropractor
Your chiropractor should have the specialized training given to practitioners to manage pregnancy discomfort.
Can a pregnant woman go to the chiropractor for low back pain
According to a study at the National Library of Medicine, chiropractic techniques can be highly effective in relieving low back pain associated with pregnancy.
Is it OK for a pregnant woman to be seen by a chiropractor
Yes, chiropractic care is considered safe throughout pregnancy.
When should I tell my chiropractor I am pregnant
You should inform your chiropractor as soon as you test positive for pregnancy, to allow the best types of treatment for your condition.
Does the baby move more after chiropractor
Pregnant women often report their baby seems to move more after chiropractic treatment. This is thought to result from improved blood flow and nerve function.
What is the best chiropractic technique for pregnancy
The Webster technique is often recommended for pregnancy care.
What should I wear to a chiropractor when pregnant
Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended during chiropractic treatment.
Can you go to a massage or chiropractor when pregnant
Yes, both massage and chiropractic are considered safe throughout pregnancy.
Dangers of chiropractic care during pregnancy
Though generally safe, minor problems, such as muscle soreness, nerve irritation or muscle spasms can occur from chiropractic treatment.
How often should I go to the chiropractor while pregnant
Generally, monthly visits to the chiropractor are recommended during pregnancy.
