Chiropractic and Pregnancy

Chiropractic and Pregnancy: The Webster Technique Dr. Sasha Marinaccio- ICPA Webster and Perinatal Certified updated 10/9/25 Many are aware that chiropractic care can be of great relief for low back or pelvic pain, in addition to other annoying symptoms that pregnant moms experience. If you’re a chiropractic patient before becoming pregnant, then you’re more likely to visit your chiropractor when those problems arise. But what if you’re not experiencing any discomfort? Does the wellness aspect of chiropractic still apply during pregnancy? Should you get adjusted regularly throughout your pregnancy even if you’ve never been adjusted before? Absolutely! As the body begins to change and adapt to a growing baby, it puts a new set of stressors on the spine and pelvis. Center of gravity begins to shift as the belly grows, ribs expand and the pelvis widens to make more room for a baby. Adequate space is necessary for a baby to move around and make its way to that perfect, head down position for birth. A breech position, or a baby that is “head up”, is one of the most common causes for planned cesarean section (c-section) delivery. Dystocia, or difficult labor, is a common cause for unplanned c-sections. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the rate for c-sections in the United States in 2023 was 32.3%2. That’s one third of births! Maternal risk factors for c-section, or any major abdominal surgery, include but are not limited to: infection, blood loss, blood clots, hemorrhage, complications for future deliveries, increased recovery time and adverse effects from anesthesia3. Many women strive for the safest and most natural birth possible, devoid of medications or surgical intervention, as they realize that their bodies were designed for childbirth. This is where wellness chiropractic and the Webster Technique fits in. According to the International Chiropractic Pediatrics Association (ICPA) “The Webster technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and diversified adjustment. The goal of the adjustment is to reduce the effects of subluxation and/or SI (sacroiliac) joint dysfunction. In so doing neurobiomechanical function in the sacral/pelvic region is improved.1” In other words, Webster is a special technique that analyzes the sacrum and other joints of the pelvis, as well as the muscles and ligaments that hold the pelvis together. If a baby is unable to rotate and descend properly into the pelvis during labor, it can slow progression and stall labor. The same can happen if the nervous system cannot effectively communicate to organize strong contractions. A sacrum that is not able to move freely can contribute to these dystocia-causing problems. By maintaining proper joint motion and balance, we can help the pelvis to be in the best shape for a natural delivery! How often should a patient see a chiropractor for wellness pregnancy care? Beginning in the second trimester, we recommend at least once a month. During the third trimester, we recommend at least twice a month and then in the final month, as the baby gets bigger and bigger, patients are generally seen once a week until delivery. This schedule may be modified and frequency of care increased if a baby is in a breech position or if mom is experiencing discomfort. Pregnant patients can feel confident under the care of an ICPA Webster certified doctor who has received extra training and clinical practice in caring for patients throughout pregnancy. Here at Riverview Chiropractic Health we have four Webster-certified chiropractors who are happy to help you on your pregnancy journey! References 1) Jeanne Ohm, D.C. & Joel Alcantara, D.C. The Webster Technique: Definition, Application and Implications. J. Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – May 10, 2012 2) CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/delivery.htm 3) Mayo Clinic. C-Section: Risks. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/c-section/MY00214/DSECTION=risks.