Why is Chiropractic Care Important During Pregnancy?
There are many physiological and hormonal changes that occur in a woman’s body as it is growing a baby and preparing for birth. This is such an exciting time, but brings with it some significant changes in your body! While the baby grows, your center of gravity shifts forward. This change increases the curve in your lower back, which puts extra strain through your spine and hips. Throughout your pregnancy, your body releases the hormone called relaxin. Relaxin helps to loosen joints in preparation for labor. This means there is decreased stability in the joints, which can lead to discomfort. Pelvic and sacral misalignments can alter the pelvic opening and soft tissues that support the uterus. If these are left uncorrected, they may contribute to a difficult labor (dystocia). Getting adjusted during pregnancy helps ensure that the baby has an optimal environment to grow in, which supports a healthy labor and natural delivery!
Webster Technique
Many people have the misconception that the purpose of the Webster Technique is to turn breech babies into a head-down position. Instead of being focused on the baby, the Webster Technique is focused on the mother. Chiropractors don’t turn breech babies, but what we can do is examine the mother for any areas of neurological or structural interference. We gently adjust these areas to restore the optimal positioning of the spine and pelvis, which re-establishes normal physiological function. When this function is restored, the baby is able to find the best position for itself for birth.
The Webster Technique typically involves adjustments of the sacrum and pelvis. You also might see Dr. Danielle gently pressing on the front of a mom's belly, this is to help relieve the tension within the ligaments that are attached to the uterus and pelvis.