As published in Body Magazine, written by Dr. Elizabeth Koehle:
One of the most important times for a woman to be receiving chiropractic care is during pregnancy. From the moment of conception, her body goes through a series of remarkable changes. Some are easy to spot: a growing belly, changes in posture and gait—that characteristic pregnancy “waddle.”
What we cannot see are the millions of different hormonal changes and chemical reactions occurring in both the mother and the developing baby, all controlled through the nervous system.
Chiropractic care prior to conception promotes a more regular menstrual cycle and optimum uterine function. It prepares the body to be strong, flexible, and as balanced as possible to carry pregnancy. Adjusting women throughout pregnancy is one of the most rewarding parts of our jobs as chiropractors, because a healthier pregnancy means an easier labour and delivery.
THE STATS
According to recent studies, chiropractic care may result in an easier pregnancy, including increased comfort during the third trimester and delivery, and reduced need for analgesics. In one study, women receiving chiropractic care throughout their first pregnancy had 24% shorter labour times; subjects giving birth for the second or third time reported 39% shorter labour times. In another study, the need for analgesics was reduced by 50% in the patients who had received adjustments. In addition, 84% of women report relief of back pain during pregnancy, with chiropractic care. And because the joints of the pelvis function better, there is significantly less likelihood of back labour (contractions and sharp pain felt in the lower back/ sacral area during labour) when chiropractic care is received during pregnancy.
Chiropractic techniques during pregnancy are modified to involve gentle muscle releases, stretches, and adjustments that are comfortable and safe for the expecting mother and her baby. Because each patient is different, treatment techniques should be modified for each case.
One of the most important times for a woman to be receiving chiropractic care is during pregnancy. From the moment of conception, her body goes through a series of remarkable changes. Some are easy to spot: a growing belly, changes in posture and gait—that characteristic pregnancy “waddle.”
What we cannot see are the millions of different hormonal changes and chemical reactions occurring in both the mother and the developing baby, all controlled through the nervous system.
Chiropractic care prior to conception promotes a more regular menstrual cycle and optimum uterine function. It prepares the body to be strong, flexible, and as balanced as possible to carry pregnancy. Adjusting women throughout pregnancy is one of the most rewarding parts of our jobs as chiropractors, because a healthier pregnancy means an easier labour and delivery.
THE STATS
According to recent studies, chiropractic care may result in an easier pregnancy, including increased comfort during the third trimester and delivery, and reduced need for analgesics. In one study, women receiving chiropractic care throughout their first pregnancy had 24% shorter labour times; subjects giving birth for the second or third time reported 39% shorter labour times. In another study, the need for analgesics was reduced by 50% in the patients who had received adjustments. In addition, 84% of women report relief of back pain during pregnancy, with chiropractic care. And because the joints of the pelvis function better, there is significantly less likelihood of back labour (contractions and sharp pain felt in the lower back/ sacral area during labour) when chiropractic care is received during pregnancy.
Chiropractic techniques during pregnancy are modified to involve gentle muscle releases, stretches, and adjustments that are comfortable and safe for the expecting mother and her baby. Because each patient is different, treatment techniques should be modified for each case.
