Pregnancy
is a natural process that allows the female body to modify itself to create the
proper environment for fetal growth and development. Our bodies are designed to
carry and birth babies. However, pregnancy is commonly treated as an illness
that requires a diagnosis or intervention for best outcomes. As natural
health care providers, we strive to provide our mamas with information and care
that allows their bodies to function at its fullest potential during pregnancy,
labor and delivery, and postpartum recovery.
Let's
start with a brief anatomy lesson. The female pelvis is evolutionary built for
child birth. It is wider to allow for uterine expansion and exit of the baby.
The pelvis consists of bones and ligaments that house and attach the uterus. These
components need to work together for optimal birth outcomes.
Pelvic
Bones:
- Hips (ilium. ischium, and pubis)
- Tailbone (sacrum and coccyx)
Pelvic
Ligaments:
- Round ligaments – connect the uterus near the fallopian tubes to the labia
majora
- Uterosacral ligaments – connects cervix to the tailbone
- Sacrotuberous ligaments – connects the tailbone to the sitz bones
During
pregnancy, the expanding uterus and hormonal changes impact the pelvic bones
and ligaments. Pelvic shape or physical traumas to the tailbone may result in tightening
and twisting of the ligaments, which impacts prenatal comfort, fetal positioning,
and birth outcomes. Chiropractic adjustments are a safe, gentle way to decrease
pelvic tension and allow the body to adapt and function as it was designed to.
Below are a few benefits of getting adjusted during pregnancy, as well as
recommendations we give our mamas.
Benefits
for Mom:
- Balances pelvis for easier pregnancy
and birth
- Decreases tension and
discomfort in ligaments and pelvis
- Stimulates parasympathetic
nervous system (rest and digest)
Benefits
for Baby:
- Creates more space for baby
in utero for development
- Helps baby get into proper
birthing position. This may decrease the chances of baby getting stuck
(dystocia) and requiring interventions.
Recommendations:
- Body Ball – sitting on a
body ball helps to keep pelvis balanced and mobile. It is great to rock hips
forward, do figure eights, or bounce on after a long day at work or during
contractions.
- Cat/Cow Pose – moving through
this yoga position will help to gently move the tailbone, improve breathing and
relaxation, and strengthen the pelvic floor.
- “Hammock” for Baby – leaning
against the wall or in child’s pose increases space in the uterus for baby.
- Round Ligament Massage – gentle massage to the
tight muscle fibers of the round ligament will release pressure and discomfort.