When should you start prenatal chiropractic care?

If you are a soon-to-be parent, you probably have a lot of questions in mind. Especially when it comes to taking proper care of yourself. During the pregnancy period, many women choose to include prenatal chiropractic care in their wellness routine. In fact, my patients say they do not understand why or how women would go through pregnancy without regular chiropractic care.

Women who are not already working with a chiropractor–may wonder when to begin their appointment. If you are expecting, understand that there is no “wrong” time to keep your body in check. But there are some stages where chiropractic has been particularly helpful in managing any pregnancy concern.

I will use this article to give you a fuller picture. During the first, second, and third trimester–these are ways chiropractic care can help you-

The First Trimester (Week 1 to week 12)

This is a very crucial period. As your baby’s body structure develops in this stage–your body undergoes some major changes as well. And naturally, this period welcomes women with a slew of symptoms.

One of the biggest reasons why women opt for chiropractic care during the first trimester–is for a way to manage these symptoms. Spinal realignment helps keep the CNS in check and the hormonal changes in balance. Many of my patients find getting adjusted to have helped minimize nausea, indigestion, and other signs common in the first trimester.

The Second Trimester (Week 13 to week 26)

In the second trimester of pregnancy (often called the “golden period”)–many of those early unpleasant sensations disappear. But this period brings a whole new set of problems with it. Women may experience abdominal pain, back pain, heartburn, frequent leg cramps, and other symptoms in these months. Primarily because there is now an added weight in the center of the woman’s body–straining the lower back.

Also, women are more vulnerable to injuries in this period. The joints and ligaments in the body start to loosen–to “prepare” for the growing baby–making it risky to work out or go for long walks.

For women in their second trimester– chiropractic therapy can primarily help in staying active and productive with minimal risks of injury. A combination of flexibility and alignment techniques has been key in strengthening the joints and muscles–improving their capacity and range of motion. If you are experiencing severe pain or discomfort, please do not hesitate to visit a chiropractor near you.

The Third Trimester (Week 27 to delivery)

This is the final stretch of your pregnancy journey (Yay!)–and chiropractic therapy can be crucial in this period. The primary focus will be on keeping the pelvis in alignment and helping the mother prepare for a faster and an easier delivery.

Chiropractic methods like the Webster technique will be used to keep the sacrum in alignment with the pelvis, and make more room in the pelvis by addressing any misalignments. Ideally, this helps free up space in the uterus and keeps the opening in a “neutral” position–for the baby to come out easily.

Ideally, it is advisable to start prenatal chiropractic before the second trimester. But there is no reason why you shouldn’t go for this option at an earlier or later stage of pregnancy. Are you a parent-to-be? Know that you deserve to stay happy and strong these nine months. And for many women, chiropractic has helped make this nine-month pregnancy journey–a healthy & comfortable one.

If you have got any queries or concerns, do not hesitate to drop a word. At Lotus Chiropractic Care, Dr. Tanvi Desai will sit with you and walk you through the right procedures.

Healthy mom, healthy baby!