You can start chiropractic care immediately during the first trimester of pregnancy, as soon as you know you are pregnant. Treatment can be helpful for common aches and pains that occur during the early months, as your body begins producing hormones that prepare you for the physical changes of pregnancy and the birth process.
The frequency and types of chiropractic techniques needed to help you keep functioning well during your pregnancy can be tailored to your individual needs. Common problems like low back pain, shoulder pain, sciatica and hip discomfort can be resolved with manual adjustment, trigger point therapy and other specialized techniques.
When to Start Prenatal Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic techniques can help during all three trimesters of pregnancy for the physical discomforts that commonly arise.
First Trimester Benefits
In the first trimester, chiropractic treatment can help to relieve nausea that commonly occurs in the early months, as well as the joint pain that may accompany the production of pregnancy-related hormones.
Considerations for Each Trimester
During the first trimester, you should inform your chiropractor that you are pregnant, so they can use techniques that are appropriate for your condition. In the second trimester, increased production of pregnancy hormones can lead to increased dysfunction in muscles and joints. In the third trimester, the growing fetus and shifting of weight to the front of the body can require additional chiropractic treatment for the spine, hips and pelvis.
Key Techniques in Prenatal Chiropractic Care
Chiropractors use a variety of specialized techniques to help maintain comfort and function during pregnancy.
Overview of the Webster Technique
According to the Healthline site, the Webster method is a chiropractic technique that focuses on the pelvis and sacrum, to provide more room in the uterus for the growing fetus.
Techniques for Fetal Positioning
According to the American Pregnancy Association, the Webster technique can have a beneficial effect on breech deliveries and should be considered when fetal positioning is in question.
Managing Intrauterine Constraint
According to the National Institute of Medicine, intrauterine constraint is defined as any maternal condition that constrains the growth of the fetus in utero, which can contribute to a number of abnormalities. Chiropractic care can help to alleviate uterine constraint to prevent problems during the birth and during infant development.
Benefits of Prenatal Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care can help to relieve common issues and can help you maintain good physical function during the month of pregnancy.
Alleviating Common Pregnancy Discomforts
Increasing weight in the abdomen often causes individuals to compensate with changes in posture. This can cause back strain, joint discomfort and neck pain.
Promoting Overall Wellness
Chiropractic treatment can relieve backaches and joint pain, as well as contributing to improved mood during pregnancy.
Preparing the Body for Delivery
Chiropractic care is associated with shorter labor time, reduced back labor and fewer breech presentations.
Frequency of Chiropractic Visits During Pregnancy
The frequency of your chiropractic treatments will depend on your own physical comfort and any health issues that may arise.
Adjusting Frequency According to Trimesters
You may find that you need to increase the frequency of your chiropractic treatment as your pregnancy progresses.
Personalized Plans Based on Individual Needs
Your chiropractor will tailor your care plan to your individual needs, which will include your current health condition, your stage of pregnancy and any physical problems you are having.
Safety Precautions for Prenatal Chiropractic Care
Chiropractors are trained in special techniques needed for treatment of individuals during pregnancy and will ensure that no undue pressure is placed on the abdomen during treatment.
Importance of Consulting Healthcare Providers
Inform your obstetrician if you are receiving chiropractic treatment, so that they can advise you on any specific health issue your chiropractor should keep in mind.
Avoiding Certain Positions Like Lying Flat on Back
Lying flat on the back can increase discomfort for the pregnant patients and places increased pressure on the fetus. Your chiropractor will utilize other positions during your treatment.
Monitoring Personal Comfort Levels
Listening to your body is always good advice, but it is particularly relevant during pregnancy. The physical stresses of increasing weight, pregnancy hormone production, and shifting center of gravity can lead to unexpected aches and pains.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should you start going to the chiropractor while pregnant
You can begin going to a chiropractor as soon as you begin to experience the physical effects of pregnancy hormones on your body.
What age can a baby go to a chiropractor?
Infants can begin treatment after the first few weeks of life.
Does insurance cover chiropractic during pregnancy?
Many, but not all, health insurance companies cover chiropractic treatment to some extent as part of their coverage. Check with your insurance company to find out if your chiropractic care is covered by your policy.
