The Benefits of Chiropractic Care in Pregnancy

by Pattie Hughes | More from this Blogger

19 Oct 2007 08:41 PM

There are several benefits of chiropractic care for pregnant women. Visiting your chiropractor can help with some of the discomforts of pregnancy. The physical changes of pregnancy cause stress to the spine. This contributes to back pain.

As labor approaches, the baby moves down into the pelvis. This can result in pain in the pelvic bone or at the bottom of the spine. Pelvic adjustments help bring the hips back into proper alignment, which relieves the pain.

Many women are sent to the chiropractor by their health care provider if the baby is in a breech presentation. Midwives are more likely to use this technique than obstetricians. Chiropractic techniques can put the hips and pelvis in proper alignment, allowing the baby to turn. This can help women prevent a c section birth.

There are benefits of regular visits to the chiropractor for labor as well. The duration of labor can be shortened with visits to the chiropractor. The alignment of the pelvis can influence the progress of labor, either negatively or positively. When the pelvis is in proper alignment, it is easier for the baby to move into position and into the world.

Chiropractic care is safe for pregnant women. Chiropractors use specific, gentle techniques when working on pregnant women. For example, excessive pressure on the abdomen is avoided. The chiropractor knows the techniques that are safe and effective for pregnant patients.

Look for a chiropractor who is trained and experienced with pregnant women. All chiropractors receive some training in caring for pregnant women when they are in school. Some take advanced training. Ask the chiropractor about her experience with pregnant women and how many pregnant patients she has had.

In many cases your insurance will cover visits to the chiropractor during pregnancy. Determine the requirements of your policy. If a referral is needed, ask your health care provider to refer you to a chiropractor. Be sure the chiropractor you choose accepts your insurance to get the most benefits.

Related Articles:

Avoiding a C Section

Back Pain in Pregnancy

Dealing with Hip Pain

Learn more about Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University.

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