In this installment of our pregnancy series, we're delving into the realm of prenatal care at our office. Just like with any new patient visit, the your first prenatal visit begins with a comprehensive assessment. Understanding the root of of any issue is paramount in crafting an effective treatment plan and helping you feel and the move the way you want.

Our assessment starts with a thorough range of motion check, extending beyond the area of complaint to encompass the entire body, recognizing that everything is interconnected. More specific core and pelvic function assessments follow, tailored to each patient's unique symptoms, goals, and pregnancy stage.

Breathing patterns, muscle activation, and your ability to relax are evaluated, focusing on core, pelvic floor, hip, and low back muscles. This holistic approach ensures a well-rounded understanding of the your needs at your stage of pregnancy.

Once assessment is complete, we move on to treatment, which typically involves spinal adjustments to enhance joint mobility and function and alleviate pain. Prenatal chiropractic adjustments can vary, from more typical “popping” adjustments to gentler drops and mobilizations. Webster Technique is the gold standard technique for pregnancy, and it’s a great additional assessment and adjustment to help balance the pelvis and surrounding tissues. We love incorporating Webster Technique in prenatal care. Soft tissue release, performed manually, also aids in muscle relaxation and encourages mobility, which is especially beneficial when conventional pain medications are restricted during pregnancy.

Another key aspect of our treatment strategy is gentle, progressive activation exercises, starting with foundational movements like breathing and core activation and gradually advancing to functional tasks relevant to daily life (think carrying your toddler while making dinner, lowering a baby into a crib, weight lifting, running, and more!).

Regarding care frequency, we recommend prenatal patients visit us on a similar schedule to their OBGYN or midwife appointments, typically once a month initially. This ensures early establishment of movement foundations and proactive management of potential issues before they escalate. These visits will increase in frequency in the third trimester, when your body is under the greatest amount of strain, to help keep you comfortable as you and your little one grow.

Pregnancy is a transformative journey, and our goal is to support women every step of the way, from conception to postpartum. Seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy can significantly contribute to a smoother, more comfortable experience for both mother and baby. Win-win!

In our last post next week, we'll get into the specifics of birth preparation in our office. Remember, proactive care during pregnancy sets the stage for a positive birthing experience and beyond.