Life After Birth

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Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

I wouldn’t be a chiropractor writing about all of my experiences with birth and not give everyone a rundown of why chiropractic care during pregnancy is vital! If I had to choose one type of patient that is my favorite as a chiropractor, it is a pregnant woman. I love to be a small part of their birth team, and I love to hear about everything they are going through, before, during and after pregnancy and delivery. 

 When I was pregnant, it seemed we had a boom in current patients in the office that were also pregnant at the same time. This was so much fun to share in all of our experiences together. Most of them were not on their first pregnancy, which was great for me to be able to have these women to talk to. 

 As I had previously mentioned in a post, I worked until December 14th, which was my “due date.” Most days toward the end, I was so exhausted, I counted the shifts that remained until my maternity leave started. I was physically able to continue to practice, in part, due to myself getting adjusted very regularly during my pregnancy. I had weekly adjustments by my great friend and colleague Dr. Jen, and weekly prenatal massages. 

 So, let’s talk about some of the benefits of the Chiropractic technique known as the Webster technique.

The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic sacral analysis and diversified adjustment. The goal of the adjustment is to reduce the effects of sacral subluxation/ SI joint dysfunction. In doing so, neuro-biomechanical function in the pelvis is facilitated. Sacral subluxation may contribute to difficult labor for the mother (i.e., dystocia), caused by inadequate uterine function, pelvic contraction, and baby mal-presentation. Correction of sacral subluxation may have a positive effect on all of these causes of dystocia.

It is important to note, that while the Webster technique does not turn breech babies, it does work to ensure that the pelvis alignment allows for a more ideal positioning of the baby. 

The Webster technique is not a guarantee of a smooth, uncomplicated delivery. (I am a true testament to that.) I do know that my body was in a much better place with chiropractic care during pregnancy than it would have been without. Beyond helping the regular aches and pains of growing a human, Chiropractic care in pregnancy is vital to the normal physiological function of both the mother and baby throughout pregnancy and birth. More women and birth providers are discovering the many benefits associated with chiropractic care in pregnancy and recognize this area of expertise through Webster Certification. You can read more about the Webster’s technique here- Read The Webster Technique: Definition, Application and Implications

You can Find a Webster Certified chiropractor here. 

 Did you use a Webster Certified Chiropractor during your pregnancy? I would love to hear about your experience. If you have any specific questions chiropractic care during pregnancy, please reach out to me!