Learn how a Chiropractor can help with your Pregnancy
While pregnant, a woman’s body is put in a position where it needs to adjust for the presence of the fetus, while simultaneously producing hormones to relax muscles and ligaments in preparation for giving birth. This combination can seriously affect the spine. If you’re pregnant now, and would like to ease your discomfort and simplify the birthing experience, you should seek chiropractic care.
Pregnancy Hormones and their Effects on the Body
There are a number of hormones released in a woman’s body when she becomes pregnant, including HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin), Estrogen, Oxytocin, and Prolactin. HCG and Estrogen are key components in the development of the womb, placenta, and fetus, Oxytocin triggers labor. Prolactin produces milk.
Other hormones present during pregnancy are Progesterone and Relaxin, which relaxes the uterus and loosens the muscles and ligaments that hold the pelvic bones together. This condition, known as Ligamentous laxity, makes it possible for the baby’s head to emerge from the vaginal canal. It’s a necessary physical condition during pregnancy, but unfortunately not limited to the pelvic area of the body.
Ligamentous Laxity in the Spinal Column and Joints
As a woman’s belly swells during pregnancy and her ligaments begin to relax from the presence of Relaxin, she experiences a feeling often described as being “loose-limbed” or “sway-backed”. Combined with a lower center of gravity due to weight gain this leads to an extremely soar back. Perhaps you’re experiencing that now?
The back pain is caused by the additional strain (weight) placed on the spine and the relaxing of the ligaments holding everything together. Many women also report joint pain and a loss of coordination while attempting simple tasks. A chiropractor can help alleviate these symptoms and ensure mother and child come through the pregnancy and birth in the healthiest manner possible.
Understanding Sacral Subluxation and Pelvic Misalignments
The sacrum is the base vertebra of the spinal column. It’s connected to the pelvis by a joint called the sacroiliac, which is supported on all sides by strong ligaments, the same ligaments that are relaxed by hormones during pregnancy. The job of the sacroiliac joint is to provide shock absorption for the spine. If the sacrum or the pelvis becomes misaligned, you will experience loss of mobility and pain.
A chiropractic procedure known as the “Webster Technique” can minimize the effects of a sacral subluxation or sacroiliac joint malfunction. By doing so, stress on the overall nerve system will be alleviated, improving the biomechanical functions of the pelvic area. Obviously, this optimal functionality is critical during pregnancy.
Preventing Dystocia – Positioning the Baby In-Utero
The female body is an intricate engine, where the efficiency of each component is dependent upon properly working physiological and chemical functions. Dystocia is a difficult birth caused by the fetus being positioned awkwardly. Ideally, the head should be the first part of the child to emerge. When the fetus is not in the right position, it’s known as baby malpresentation.
A misalignment of the sacrum or pelvis can cause Dystocia, particularly if the condition develops early in the pregnancy and is not addressed. Any abnormal shifting of the vertebra or joints in the pelvic region could lead to uterine nerve interference and tightening of the muscles and ligaments near the uterus. This may prevent the fetus from assuming the most comfortable position for birth.
Having a chiropractor correct the misalignment and continue to monitor for adjustments throughout the pregnancy can ensure the best possible result at birth, for both mother and child. Proper positioning of the baby in-utero is essential for the healthy development of the spine and nerve system.
Chiropractors are trained to Work with Pregnant Women
Pre-natal chiropractic care can relieve back pain and result in shorter labor periods. As part of their extensive training, Doctors of Chiropractic are taught to use weight tables to determine treatment methods and avoid pressure on the abdomen. These procedures strengthen the back, cut down on the chances of needing a Cesarean section, and give the mother the best opportunity to birth a healthy baby.
Whether you’re newly pregnant or in your second or third trimester, don’t wait to schedule an appointment with your chiropractor.
In addition to all of the other benefits covered here, chiropractic care during pregnancy can help you control symptoms of nausea caused by the accelerated production of HCG during fetal development. Call us today to learn more.
You can reach Eastside Chiropractic Center by calling (401) 453-2225 or by emailing eastsidechiropracticri@gmail.com. We offer chiropractic evaluations, adjustments, injury rehabilitation, and massage therapy.
