Chiropractic Care Throughout Pregnancy
Pregnancy can be a roller-coaster ride of emotions. Sometimes, all you can think about is how excited you are to start or add to your family. Other days, you’re uncomfortable, ungainly and frustrated. When you’re expecting a child, these feelings are typical. Your body changes in many ways that can cause lower back pain, joint discomfort, shift your posture and other discomforts. It might be hard for you to pinpoint what is causing your pain. Chiropractic care during pregnancy can ensure this stage of your life is more tolerable.
Are you wondering when to go to a chiropractor during pregnancy, how often to go to the chiropractor while pregnant or when to start chiropractic care during pregnancy? The answer is that you can visit a chiropractor at any stage of pregnancy, as soon as you begin to feel any pain in your movement or joints.
Many chiropractors are qualified to work with pregnant patients. Some take on advanced pregnancy-related training and receive certification for working with pregnant people. For example, the Webster Technique is a pregnancy-specific approach. To ensure you receive the best chiropractic treatment during pregnancy, find a Webster-certified chiropractor near you. Continue reading to find out how chiropractic treatment can benefit you throughout your pregnancy.
Pregnancy Wellness Through Chiropractic Care
Here are some general benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy.
- A healthier pregnancy and delivery
- Reduced nausea
- Back, neck and joint pain relief
- Decreased risk of major complications during labor
- Less need for pain medication
- Higher-quality sleep
In the next section, we’ll break down the advantages of chiropractic care for each trimester.
First Trimester
You can start visiting a chiropractor in early pregnancy. During the first trimester, your body begins to loosen ligaments that support your pelvis. This phenomenon occurs so the baby can pass through the birth canal. However, it can weaken your body’s overall structure.
Visiting a chiropractor while pregnant in the first trimester can keep your body strong and your spine balanced. Spinal adjustment can also help you manage your stress levels, while reducing symptoms such as pain, fatigue and nausea.
Second Trimester
During the second trimester of pregnancy, some of the most common symptoms are:
- Body aches
- Expanding belly as the baby grows and begins to move
- Swelling around your ankles, face and fingers
Chiropractic care in the second trimester of pregnancy can alleviate many of these complaints.
Third Trimester
During the third trimester, your symptoms from the second trimester will usually persist and may become more intense. You may also experience:
- Shortness of breath
- Heartburn
- Trouble sleeping
- Baby moving lower to the abdomen
At this stage, your cervix will become thinner and softer for the baby to come through the birth canal. Seeing a chiropractor while pregnant in the third trimester can benefit you as you get closer to going into labor. Chiropractic care during this stage can make you more comfortable and help your baby shift into the optimal position for birth. In addition, regular chiropractic adjustments can improve pelvic mobility, making labor easier.
Pregnancy is a physically demanding experience. At every stage, it’s crucial to take care of yourself. Chiropractic care can be part of your plan for a healthy, comfortable pregnancy.
What You Can Expect From Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy
If you have never regularly visited a chiropractor before, it’s very similar to any other doctor’s appointment. First, your chiropractor will ask you questions and have you do specific movements to assess your mobility. They will ask where you feel discomfort and why you are seeking relief through spinal adjustment. They’ll also take X-rays, look at your medical history and use that information to customize a treatment plan to meet your needs.
Visiting a chiropractor during your pregnancy is similar, but your doctor will need to account for several pregnancy-specific factors in creating your treatment plan. Don’t be afraid to voice any questions or concerns you have. It’s essential to feel comfortable with your chiropractor’s recommendations, as they directly affect your pregnancy wellness.
Once you have agreed to your treatment plan, you can begin attending your regularly scheduled appointments and finding relief. It’s vital to follow your doctor’s recommendations. If you have any concerns about your health, or your needs change, be sure to mention them to your chiropractor. Remember, chiropractic adjustments are most beneficial if they are consistent, so don’t miss any scheduled appointments.
Webster-Certified Chiropractor in Oklahoma
If you are ready to experience less pain and discomfort during your pregnancy, connect with a Webster-certified chiropractor at Thrive Chiropractic. Our highly trained, knowledgeable doctors are here to help you make your pregnancy and delivery experience easier. Learn more by filling out our contact form or giving us a call at three different locations in Oklahoma! We are ready to help you answer any questions or concerns you may have!
