“When should I start coming in for chiropractic care during pregnancy?” is one of the most common questions I am asked. The answer to this isn’t always black and white. The reasons for seeking care during pregnancy vary and I encourage you to check in with yourself and explore why you are interested in adding a chiropractor to your prenatal care team. Here are some questions to ask yourself when you are trying to determine the best time to schedule your appointment:
1) Am I experiencing any pain?
If you are experiencing pain, it would be in your favor to schedule an appointment as soon as your pain begins. During pregnancy, your body changes rapidly to accommodate your growing baby. Often times, pain that may have resolved on its own in the non-pregnant body, tends to linger or progress with pregnancy. The increase in weight, presence of relaxin, and changes to the musculoskeletal system all create an increase in stress on your joints and muscles. Chiropractic adjustments, in addition to soft tissue work, stretches, and exercises can decrease and eliminate common pregnancy aches and pains, including low back pain, sciatica, pubic bone pain (or pubic symphysis dysfunction), round ligament pain, and hip pain!
2) What are my goals for this pregnancy and birth?
If you are hoping to have an active pregnancy and birth, seeking chiropractic care within the first few weeks of finding out you are pregnant is ideal. This is an excellent time to establish a relationship with your provider. If you do not have any symptoms or concerns, your chiropractor may suggest seeing you monthly for the first few months, however, your body begins changing immediately and beginning care in the first trimester will help you adapt to these changes. Chiropractic during pregnancy can help your baby achieve an optimal position and have an easier labor and delivery. Visit this blog post for more information on the Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy.
3) What position is my baby in?
Chiropractic care can help balance the joints and muscles of the pelvis to create an ideal space for your baby to move head down. For optimal position of the pelvis, seeking care around 28 weeks is ideal, however babies can flip head down as late as 37-38 weeks. Schedule an appointment with your chiropractor as soon as you find out your baby is breech!
It is never too early or too late to begin chiropractic care. The doctors at our office have taken many additional trainings to women during pregnancy. Dr. Shirley is offering 10 minute discovery calls to answer any questions you may have about care! Email her at drdelgado@clechiropractic.com to schedule one!
Dr. C
email: drgesicki@clechiropractic.com
Other blogs you may be interested in:
DIASTASIS RECTUS ABDOMINIS- WHAT IS IT AND WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT IT?
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CHIROPRACTIC CARE + ACUPUNCTURE DURING PREGNANCY