CHIROPRACTIC AND PREGNANCY

Pregnancy is not for the faint-hearted! I am sure that any lady that has had a baby will tell you this. Not only do pregnant ladies have to put up with the dreaded nausea from morning sickness but they also experience symptoms of back and pelvic pain, especially as the baby grows within the uterus.

Studies have shown that approximately 50% of pregnant women experience back pain during their pregnancy and between 50% and 75% of women experience back pain during labour.

During pregnancy, several hormones are released to help the body prepare for the growing baby. These hormones relax the ligaments and joints bringing about joint hypermobility creating a decrease in spinal stabilization. Also, with the increase in weight of the growing uterus, the pelvis rolls forward placing extra pressure on the lower back. Chiropractic care has been shown to not only reduce the mother’s discomfort during this time but also helps to establish the correct pelvic balance and alignment allowing the baby to be in the best position for delivery.

According to the American Pregnancy Association, misalignments within the pelvis can reduce the amount of room available for the baby to grow. It may also make it difficult for the baby to get into the correct position for delivery which is rear-facing and head down. The incorrect positions can make labour and delivery more difficult and may lead to other birth interventions.

This is where Chiropractic can help. Chiropractors use gentle adjustments to the lower back and pelvis to realign the spine. The chiropractic adjustments also help to alleviate irritation to the nerves of the spine caused by the mother’s changing body, helping the body to function better as a whole. The International Chiropractic Paediatric Association (ICPA) recommends that all women should receive chiropractic care throughout pregnancy.

Chiropractic provides great relief during the post-partum period too. Breast feeding, carrying the car seat and even just holding your baby can lead to mid and lower back pain. A visit to your chiropractor will help you ease into your new transition of parenthood.

Dr. Lisa Dickerson MTech Chiro (SA)