During pregnancy, there are several changes to the expecting mother’s body, from physical to biochemical. Biochemical changes include: increase of estrogen to help with the growth of the placenta, progesterone that supports the fetus’ growth, and oxytocin helps the body with labour and breastmilk production. Physical changes to the body helps to accommodate the growing of the fetus inside the womb. The pelvis begins to widen with the help of hormone relaxin, to accommodate the growth of the baby, the ribs start to be pushed out slowly to the side to allow the belly to expand upward and outward, and the lower back changes in curvature to help with the growth of the belly.
Symptoms of discomfort can happen during pregnancy like:
- Lower back pain
- Hip pain
- Anterior pubic pain
- Rib pain
- Pelvic floor instability
Gentle chiropractic care with cranial-sacral or sacra-occipital technique can help alleviate the pain and physical symptoms of discomfort during pregnancy. It can also help with labour and delivery of the baby, and post-partum care for the mother. You can refer to American Pregnancy Association for more information on how chiropractic care can help or call us today at (650) 948-8900 for a free 15 minute consult or schedule a new patient appointment.