Having a family is so natural, but it doesn’t always go smoothly. Your chiropractor may help you to enjoy your pregnancy and avoid some of the more uncomfortable effects, including changes in posture, due to weight gain, that cause pain in your back, buttocks, groin and legs.

Because of the way in which ligaments and muscles are attached to the pelvis, effects of postural strain may influence the positioning of your uterus and therefore the birth canal. Ensuring that this area of your body is functioning correctly may make the potential trauma of birth easier for both mother and baby.

A natural process deserves a natural health choice. Chiropractic is drug-free and effective for you and your baby. It involves safe, often gentle, specific manipulations, done by hand, to unlock joints that are not moving properly. This allows your body to use its own healing ability to keep you fit and healthy.

Your chiropractor is trained and experienced in a wide variety of techniques to help you deal with the stresses of pregnancy, and keep you fit afterwards.

Chiropractic treatment can be given during the first months of pregnancy and in labour. Your chiropractor will use safe, gentle techniques that are suitable for your condition. He or she may also advise you on diet, posture and exercise. Some chiropractors work closely with their local health visitors and midwives.

It is advisable to carry on treatment after you have given birth as the problems you suffered during pregnancy may not disappear as soon as you have had your baby. All your muscles and ligaments need time to get back to “normal” and you will be learning to adjust to life with a newborn. Also, picking up your child as he or she gets bigger and heavier may put increasing pressure on your spine and joints.

Many women have also found that their general health, as well as period pains, back pain and headaches, have improved with chiropractic care.