Pregnancy brings about changes in the female body that go beyond fluctuating hormones and the bulging abdomen. Many women experience aches and pain in the back and hips, joint discomfort, and ligament pain. Studies show that about 50 percent of all pregnant women experience back pain at some point. Chiropractic care can relieve discomfort during pregnancy. 
 

Chiropractic Adjustment During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can stress the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, resulting in various changes. The discomfort can affect mobility and make it difficult to enjoy the pregnancy. Chiropractic care can help relieve these symptoms and reduce pain or discomfort. 
 

Safety of Chiropractic Care in Pregnancy

Before you visit a chiropractor during pregnancy, consult your obstetrician. It is vital to visit a qualified and experienced one with the extra training to treat pregnant women. The chiropractor’s clinic must have special equipment or adaptability devices. 

These items make it comfortable and safe for pregnant women. Remember, some conditions can disqualify you from getting chiropractic adjustments while pregnant. 

Specifically, you must avoid chiropractic care if you experience the following:

• Vaginal bleeding

• Toxemia

• Placenta abruption

• Other conditions
   

Reasons to Get Chiropractic Care in Pregnancy

As the belly grows in pregnancy, the spinal curvature changes. The placenta begins to secrete relaxin, a hormone that helps loosen the ligaments. It softens the pelvis in preparation for a vaginal birth. But it can lead to pelvic and hip pain and cause sacroiliac dysfunction.
 

Benefits of Chiropractic Care in Pregnancy

• Chiropractic care reduces pregnancy-related aches, pains, and muscle tension.

• Helps realign the spine and joints. The doctors use regular adjustments and other supportive techniques, such as stretching. 

• Musculoskeletal adjustments can lead to fewer headaches.

• The care helps reduce nausea.  

• The treatment can help reduce edema (swelling). 

• Chiropractic adjustments help reduce sciatic pain. 

• Pregnant women enjoy more restful sleep after chiropractic treatment. 

• It results in faster and less complicated labor and delivery. 

How Often to Get Chiropractic Adjustments

Your chiropractor will give you a treatment plan indicating how often you should get care during pregnancy. In most cases, the practitioners recommend once-a-month sessions in the first trimester—then once every two or three weeks. 

Waning discomfort or new aches and pains can lead to fewer or more adjustments. Most women need more frequent sessions as they get closer to their due date. It helps prepare the body for labor and delivery. 
The doctor will conduct a physical assessment to determine your condition and identify areas of dysfunction or misalignment. Let the chiropractor know if you experience any discomfort during the treatment. 

For more on how often you should get a chiropractic adjustment when pregnant, visit Ignite Chiropractic at our Fargo, North Dakota, office. Call (701) 987-3511 to schedule an appointment today.