Being pregnant and giving birth are not easy! However, you can make the process easier on yourself by seeking treatment from a chiropractor throughout the duration of your pregnancy. Here are three specific benefits of regular chiropractic treatments for pregnant women.
Easier Birth
If your spine is kept in proper alignment throughout your pregnancy, when it is time to give birth, your muscles and joints will all be lined up properly, making the process easier. Chiropractors work to alleviate subluxations, or points where misaligned vertebrae press on your spinal nerves. By doing so, they may be able to relax some of your muscles so that you feel less strained and in pain during labor.
Chiropractors can even use a specific technique called the Webster Technique to help reduce the risk of a breech birth. This procedure involves gentle manipulation of the ligaments that support your belly in an effort to make sure the baby turns around into the proper face-first position before moving into the birth canal.
Fewer Cramps
A lot of women experience abdominal and back cramps during pregnancy. Often, this is because the increased weight of the fetus is placing strain on the spine and the muscles attached to it. Regular chiropractic adjustments can alleviate this strain, reducing your cramping without the need for medications. When your spine is adjusted properly, you'll be better able to carry yourself with good posture, which can help alleviate stomach cramps.
Fewer Headaches
A lot of pregnant women experience headaches with increased frequency. While these are often partially due to hormonal changes, they can be made worse by a poorly adjusted spine. When your chiropractor keeps your back in alignment, the resulting lack of stiffness in the back and neck can reduce the frequency of headaches. Your chiropractor may also be able to recommend some neck exercises or dietary changes that can help keep your headaches in check so you don't have to take pain relievers or spend all day in bed.
Keep in mind that in order to get the most out of your chiropractic appointment, it's important to see a chiropractor who has experience treating pregnant women. Not only will he or she be more familiar with specialized techniques to address cramps, headaches, and difficult birth, but a pregnancy specialist will also have a table designed for pregnant women, making your adjustment more comfortable. Your chiropractor will tell you how often to return for adjustments – often, every 2 – 4 weeks is ideal.
For more information, speak directly with professionals like Commonwealth Chiropractic.
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