Pregnancy Care
Pregnancy chiropractic is a specialised branch of chiropractic care that focuses on addressing the unique musculoskeletal and biomechanical changes that occur during pregnancy. It involves gentle and safe chiropractic techniques to alleviate common pregnancy discomforts, support optimal pelvic alignment, and promote overall well-being for both the mother and baby.
During pregnancy, hormonal changes and the growing baby's weight can lead to postural changes, increased stress on the spine, and discomfort in various areas, such as the lower back, hips, pubis symphysis and pelvis. Pregnancy chiropractors are trained to assess and address these issues using gentle adjustments, mobilisations, and supportive therapies.
The goals of pregnancy chiropractic care may include:
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Pain Relief: Chiropractic adjustments and techniques can help alleviate pregnancy-related discomforts, such as lower back pain, sciatica, round ligament pain, and pelvic girdle pain.
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Pelvic Alignment: Optimal pelvic alignment is essential for a smoother delivery process. Pregnancy chiropractors use gentle techniques to address pelvic imbalances, which can enhance the baby's positioning and reduce the risk of interventions during labour.
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Optimal Nervous System Function: The nervous system plays a crucial role in pregnancy and birth. Chiropractic adjustments can help optimise nervous system function, improving overall health and well-being for both the mother and baby.
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Support for Pregnancy-Related Conditions: Chiropractic care may provide support for specific pregnancy-related conditions, including pubic symphysis dysfunction, breech presentation, and rib pain.
Many women ask us about the Webster Technique, which is frequently used to address breech positioning. It is important to note this gentle technique works on the mother's pelvic alignment and there is absolutely no attempt to physically turn the baby. The supporting evidence for the Webster Technique is advancing, however, currently based on research with relatively small sample sizes. Our chiropractors know how to safely use the Webster technique, however its effectiveness cannot be guaranteed.
Pregnancy chiropractors work closely with other healthcare providers involved in prenatal care to ensure a collaborative and holistic approach. They may also provide guidance on exercises, stretches, and postural adjustments that can be done at home to support the body's changes during pregnancy.