Pregnancy is a time of incredible change. As your body adapts to support a growing baby, changes in weight, shifts in posture, movement, and physical demands can influence how your spine, pelvis, and surrounding muscles function and feel. Chiropractic care during pregnancy focuses on education, symptom management, and functional support to help you move more comfortably throughout all stages of pregnancy and into the postpartum period.
Here are five evidence-based reasons to consider seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy.
1. Education on Postural and Physical Changes
During pregnancy, the expanding uterus causes weight gain (predominately in the abdomen) and shifts the centre of gravity forward. This commonly results in an increased curve in the lower back (lumbar lordosis) and the pelvis tipping forward (anterior pelvic tilt). Hormonal changes also increase ligament laxity, which can reduce joint stability and increase stress on the spine and pelvis. The combination of these changes may cause you to experience changes in balance and walking patterns.
Chiropractors are musculoskeletal experts and can help you understand these normal pregnancy-related physiological changes and how they may affect your posture and movement. They can also provide practical advice on posture, ergonomics, and daily activities to better support both you and your growing baby.
Reference:
Weis CA, Pohlman K, Barrett J, Clinton S, da Silva-Oolup S, Draper C, et al. Best-Practice Recommendations for Chiropractic Care for Pregnant and Postpartum Patients: Results of a Consensus Process. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2022;45(7):469–489. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2021.03.002.
2. Relief From Pain and Discomfort
Low back pain and pelvic girdle pain are extremely common during pregnancy, affecting up to 90% of pregnant individuals. Other areas such as the hips, mid-back, neck, and ribs may also become symptomatic as the body adapts to changing loads and movement patterns.
Evidence suggests chiropractic care may help manage pregnancy-related musculoskeletal pain and improve function. Care is tailored to the pregnant body and aims to reduce discomfort while supporting safe movement throughout pregnancy.
Reference:
Weis CA, Pohlman K, Draper C, da Silva-Oolup S, Stuber K, Hawk C. Chiropractic Care for Adults With Pregnancy-Related Low Back, Pelvic Girdle Pain, or Combination Pain: A Systematic Review. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2020;43(7):714–731. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2020.05.005.
3. Guidance on Physical Activity Throughout Pregnancy
For most pregnant individuals without contraindications, physical activity is recommended throughout pregnancy. Regular movement has been shown to improve maternal physical and mental health and to reduce the severity of low back and pelvic pain.
Chiropractors can help guide safe and appropriate physical activity by recommending exercises and modifications tailored to your symptoms, fitness level, and stage of pregnancy. This individualized approach can help you stay active with confidence.
References:
Mottola MF, Davenport MH, Ruchat S-M, et al. 2019 Canadian Guideline for Physical Activity Throughout Pregnancy. Br J Sports Med. 2019;52:1339–1346.
Connell G, Weis CA, Hollman H, Nissen K, Verville L, Cancelliere C. Physical Activity Throughout Pregnancy: Guideline Critical Appraisal and Implementation Tool. J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2021;65(1):50–58.
4. Support During the Transition into the Postpartum Period
The postpartum period introduces new physical challenges, including recovery from pregnancy and birth, changes in hormone levels, and increased physical demands related to infant care. Musculoskeletal pain can persist or newly develop during this time.
Best-practice recommendations for chiropractic care include support during the postpartum period, with a focus on managing musculoskeletal conditions and helping patients transition safely from pregnancy to postpartum recovery.
Reference:
Weis CA, Pohlman K, Barrett J, Clinton S, da Silva-Oolup S, Draper C, et al. Best-Practice Recommendations for Chiropractic Care for Pregnant and Postpartum Patients. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2022;45(7):469–489. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2021.03.002.
5. Postpartum Education, Feeding Posture, and Rehabilitation
After birth, repetitive tasks such as feeding, carrying, lifting, and soothing an infant can place strain on the neck, shoulders, and back. Poor or sustained feeding postures have been associated with increased musculoskeletal discomfort.
Chiropractors can provide education on breast or chest feeding postures and supports, ergonomic strategies for daily activities, and recommendations for gradual return to physical activity and rehabilitation. This support can help promote recovery, reduce pain, and rebuild strength and confidence postpartum.
References:
Connell G, Weis CA, Hollman H, Nissen K, Verville L, Cancelliere C. Physical Activity Throughout Pregnancy and Into the Postpartum Period: Guideline Appraisal and Implementation. J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2021;65(1):50–58.
Disclaimer: Chiropractic care can support education, comfort, and function during pregnancy and postpartum. If you have complications or restrictions, follow your prenatal healthcare provider’s guidance. The content on this document is for informational purposes only. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of information you have read on this presentation.