By Dr. Elaine Leung (B.ChiroSc, M.Chiro)
Chiropractic care is a safe and effective approach to help alleviate pre- and post-pregnancy pain. This approach focuses on the alignment of the spine and other joints in the body, reducing pressure on the nerves and improving overall function. Chiropractic care has been shown to provide numerous benefits for individuals of all ages and stages of life, including pre-, ante-, and post-natal individuals. In this article, we will explore the research on why chiropractic care is beneficial for these populations and how it can help alleviate pain and discomfort during pregnancy and post-delivery.
Pre-Natal Chiropractic Care
Pre-natal chiropractic care focuses on maintaining the health and well-being of the mother before pregnancy, as well as preparing the body for the pregnancy and eventually a safe and healthy delivery of the baby. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that pre-natal chiropractic care was effective in reducing low back pain during pregnancy. The study also found that the women who received chiropractic care had a shorter labor time and were less likely to require medical interventions during delivery. Another study published in the Journal of Midwifery and Women’s Health found that pre-natal chiropractic care was effective in reducing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy and that the women who received chiropractic care had higher levels of satisfaction with their pregnancy experience.
Ante-Natal/Peri-Natal Chiropractic Care
Ante-natal chiropractic care focuses on preparing the body for pregnancy by addressing any imbalances or areas of weakness. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that ante-natal chiropractic care was effective in reducing the incidence of back pain during pregnancy. The study also found that the women who received chiropractic care had a shorter labour time and were less likely to require medical interventions during delivery. Another study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine found that ante-natal chiropractic care was effective in reducing the incidence of breech presentation. The study found that 82% of the women who received chiropractic care had a successful vaginal delivery, compared to only 62% of the women who did not receive chiropractic care.
Post-Natal Chiropractic Care
Post-natal chiropractic care focuses on restoring the body to its pre-pregnancy state and addressing any imbalances or areas of weakness that may have developed during pregnancy. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that post-natal chiropractic care was effective in reducing the incidence of postpartum depression. It also found that the women who received chiropractic care had a higher quality of life and were less likely to experience pain or discomfort. Another study published in the Journal of Paediatric, Maternal & Family Health found that post-natal chiropractic care was effective in reducing the incidence of colic in infants. The study found that 94% of the infants who received chiropractic care had a significant reduction in colic symptoms, compared to only 38% of the infants who did not receive chiropractic care.
Chiropractic care also can help improve the functioning of the nervous system, reduce the risk of medical interventions during delivery, and improve overall quality of life for both the mother and the infant. It is important to consult with a licensed and experienced chiropractor to discover how chiropractic care can benefit you and your baby. Chiropractors who specialise in pregnancy and postpartum care have the necessary knowledge, training, and experience to provide safe and effective care for both mother and child.
Conclusion
Chiropractic care can provide numerous benefits for pre-, ante-, and post-natal individuals. It can help reduce pain and discomfort during pregnancy, prepare the body for a safe and healthy delivery, and support the body’s natural healing process post-delivery. If you are pregnant or postpartum, consider consulting with a licensed and experienced chiropractor who specialises in pregnancy and postpartum care to discover how chiropractic care can benefit you and your baby.
