Chiropractic During Pregnancy?
Over the last 2 months we covered the issue of chronic ear infections. Prior to that, we discussed bedwetting. We’ll be looking at other common childhood health issues in future columns, however, this month I’d like to discuss where the good health of your children really begins…before birth!
It certainly goes without saying that the health of a mother-to-be will profoundly affect the health of her child in utero. Today’s modern women, especially pregnant ones, are much more knowledgeable about diet and nutrition, exercise, etc. and how maintaining optimal health will ensure the greatest chance of a healthy child and minimize the possibility of complications during pregnancy and labour.
Many women also realize the importance of regular chiropractic care during this critical time. Indeed, if there’s one group of people who need chiropractic spinal check-ups more than any other, it’s pregnant women. This is true because of the physical and chemical changes that a woman’s body goes through as pregnancy ensues. As weight gradually increases in the abdomen, the centre of gravity shifts, often resulting in back pain. Contributing to the picture, hormonal changes relax the ligaments of the pelvis, allowing for stretching during childbirth. This increased flexibility can aggravate spinal problems.
By reducing the effects of spinal stress, chiropractic care will enable the mother to remain active throughout her pregnancy.
In fact, chiropractic care may even make labour and delivery easier. A study conducted by Irvin Henderson (a member of The American Medical Association) concluded that women who received chiropractic care during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy were able to carry and deliver with more comfort.
So now let’s try to clear up a few questions that many mothers-to be have:
Do I need to have back pain to see a chiropractor? No. Chiropractic care should be considered preventive maintenance. And of course, it might make your labour easier, even if you don’t have pain right now.
Will it be difficult or uncomfortable to receive chiropractic adjustments as my abdomen gets bigger? Not at all. Chiropractors are trained to adjust the spines of pregnant women, and many adjusting tables have special modifications for this purpose.
How late in pregnancy can I receive adjustments? You can receive adjustments even during labour.
Can my new baby receive chiropractic care? Due to the potential trauma of birth (especially in the upper spine), it is essential that newborns be checked by a chiropractor and receive an adjustment, if needed. Naturally very gentle special techniques are used.
In summary, by optimizing your well-being, chiropractic can help you to focus on the beautiful experience of pregnancy and the intimate bond between mother and child.
Dr. Paul is the owner of Weber Chiropractic Clinic and Wellness Centre in Port Hope. He can be reached at 905-885-9306
