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Are you waking up with that familiar pregnancy backache again? If you’re living in Mernda or nearby suburbs and expecting a little one, you might be wondering if seeing a pregnancy chiropractor is safe for you and your baby.
We get it. We’ve talked a lot of first time pregnant women dealing with lower back pain that they could barely tie their shoes. They were hesitant about pregnancy chiropractic at first. Was it really safe? Could it harm their baby?
Let’s look at what the research says, what you can expect, and how to find the right prenatal care near Mernda.
Understanding Pregnancy-Related Pain: Why It Happens
Your body is amazing. Right now, it’s creating a whole new human being. But as miraculous as that is, the journey isn’t always comfortable. Many women experience aches and pains during pregnancy especially in the spine and pelvis and wonder if it’s just something they have to put up with.
The truth is, there’s a reason for everything your body is feeling. Understanding why can help you manage the discomfort and know when to seek help.
During pregnancy, your body releases a hormone called relaxin. It plays a vital role in helping your pelvic bones and ligaments loosen to make room for birth. Sounds helpful, right?
The catch? Relaxin doesn’t just target your pelvis. It affects joints all over your body, making them more mobile and sometimes unstable. Combined with the physical changes happening as your baby grows, this can lead to significant pain or discomfort.
Your growing belly shifts your center of gravity forward. This creates a domino effect:
- Your lower back curves more deeply
- Your shoulders roll forward
- Your pelvis tilts
- Your posture changes completely
All of this places new strain on your spine and pelvis, and it’s no wonder so many women start experiencing back pain, particularly in the lower back and hips.
Common Pregnancy Aches and Pain in Our Chiropractic Clinic Near Mernda
At The Chiropractic Co. Plenty, we regularly support mums-to-be who are dealing with:
- Lower back pain: A persistent ache that makes standing, walking, or sitting for long periods unbearable.
- Pelvic girdle pain: Sharp, shooting pain around the pelvic bones, especially when rolling over in bed or getting out of the car.
- Hip pain: Aching or tightness in one or both hips, often linked to changes in posture or ligament tension.
- Sciatica: That electric-shock sensation that travels from your lower back or hip down the back of your leg.
- Round ligament pain: A sudden, stabbing pain in the lower abdomen or groin area, especially when changing positions quickly.
These aren’t just physical discomforts, they affect your ability to sleep, exercise, work, and enjoy your pregnancy. Many women also worry about using pain medication while pregnant and end up suffering in silence.
If you’re experiencing back pain, hip pain, or other pregnancy-related aches and pains, it’s important to know that help is available. Gentle, supportive care such as chiropractic care, physiotherapy, or tailored exercises can relieve tension in the spine and pelvis, improve your posture, and reduce pressure on your joints.
The goal isn’t just to get rid of the pain or discomfort; it’s to help you move better, sleep easier, and actually enjoy this incredible time in your life.
What Is Pregnancy Chiropractic Care?
Pregnancy chiropractic care isn’t the same as regular chiropractic treatment. It’s a gentler, specialised approach designed specifically for expectant mothers.
A specially trained chiropractor Mernda experts use techniques that avoid putting pressure on your belly. They’ll never have you lie face-down on a standard table. Instead, they use:
- Tables with special cutouts for your growing belly
- Supportive pillows for proper positioning
- Gentler adjustment techniques
One specialised technique many pregnancy chiropractors use is called the Webster Technique. It focuses on balancing the pelvis and reducing stress on the uterus and supporting ligaments.
Many local chiropractic Melbourne practitioners who work with pregnant women have taken additional training to earn their Webster Certification. This isn’t just a weekend course; it requires significant study and practical experience.
Safety of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy: What the Research Says
Let’s address the big question: Is seeing a pregnancy chiropractor safe?
Research suggests that chiropractic care during pregnancy is generally safe when performed by a qualified practitioner who specialises in prenatal care.
A 2009 review published in the Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health found no evidence of increased risk to either mother or baby from chiropractic treatment during pregnancy.
The key is finding someone with the right training. Not all chiropractors have specific experience with pregnant patients.
Chiropractic care is typically recommended for:
- Managing neck pain, joint pain, and low back pain
- Maintaining proper pelvic alignment
- Reducing the need for pain medications
However, there are some situations where you should get medical clearance first:
- If you’re experiencing vaginal bleeding
- If you have placenta previa or placental abruption
- If you’re at high risk for premature labor and delivery
Always check with your obstetrician or midwife before starting any new treatment during pregnancy. If you’re considering a pregnancy chiropractor near Mernda, contact The Chiropractic Co. We serve Mernda, Diamond Creek, Greensborough, Mill Park, and nearby suburbs in Plenty.
Benefits of Pregnancy Chiropractic Care Beyond Pain Relief
While pain relief is often what brings pregnant women to pregnancy chiropractor, many discover additional benefits of chiropractic care:
Better pelvic alignment might mean easier labor. When your pelvis is properly aligned, your baby has more room to move into an optimal position for childbirth.
Improved overall comfort. Many pregnant patients report better sleep, easier breathing, and less heartburn after chiropractic adjustments.
Natural approach to wellness. For women who prefer to avoid medications during pregnancy, chiropractic treatment Melbourne offers a drug-free option to manage pain and discomfort.
Finding a Qualified Pregnancy Chiropractor in Mernda and Surrounding Areas
Not all chiropractors are equally experienced when it comes to pregnancy care and when you’re expecting, it’s essential to choose a practitioner who understands your unique needs. At The Chiropractic Co., we specialise in supporting pregnant and postpartum women with safe, tailored care throughout every stage of the journey.
What to Look for in a Pregnancy Chiropractor
When seeking a chiropractor for a healthy pregnancy, consider the following:
- Specialised training in prenatal care – Look for practitioners trained in the Webster Technique or other pregnancy-specific approaches. At The Chiropractic Co., our pregnancy chiropractors are qualified and certified in techniques proven to support pelvic balance and comfort during pregnancy.
- Experience with pregnant patients – Ask how many pregnant women they treat regularly. Our clinic welcomes numerous expectant mothers each month and is deeply experienced in chiropractic care for pregnancy.
- Pregnancy-safe equipment – We use specially designed pregnancy tables and support pillows to ensure your comfort and safety during each session.
- Collaborative approach – The best results come when your chiropractor works hand-in-hand with your midwife or obstetrician. Chiropractic care can help complement your existing prenatal plan, and our team is happy to communicate with your healthcare providers when needed.
Questions to Ask Before Booking
Before committing to care, we encourage you to ask questions like:
- “How do you modify techniques for pregnant women?”
- “Do you use specialised equipment for pregnancy?”
- “How many pregnant women do you treat each month?”
- “Can you communicate with my midwife or OB if needed?”
At The Chiropractic Co., we’re always happy to answer these questions during your initial consultation, helping you feel confident and supported from day one.
Serving Mernda and Beyond
Located conveniently for residents of Plenty, The Chiropractic Co. also welcomes patients from Mernda, Diamond Creek, Greensborough, Mill Park, and surrounding communities. Whether you’re early in your pregnancy or navigating postnatal chiropractic care, our team is here to support your body’s natural changes with safe, gentle, and effective treatment.
What to Expect During Your First Pregnancy Chiropractic Visit
Feeling nervous about your first chiropractor appointment Melbourne? Here’s what typically happens:
The consultation: Our pregnancy chiropractor will review your health history, with special attention to your pregnancy details. We’ll ask about your symptoms, previous pregnancies, and any complications.
The examination: This will be gentle and considerate of your pregnant state. Our chiropractor will assess your posture, spine, and pelvis. We’ll look at how you move and check for areas of restriction or pain.
The treatment plan: Based on our findings, we’ll suggest a care plan that might include:
- Gentle adjustments
- Soft tissue work
- Home exercises
- Ergonomic advice
The adjustment: If you receive an adjustment during your first visit, it will be very gentle. Many pregnant women describe it as a feeling of release rather than the “cracking” people often associate with chiropractic care.
Treatment frequency depends on your specific needs, but many pregnant women benefit from visits every 2-4 weeks early on, increasing to weekly visits in the third trimester.
Complementary Self-Care Strategies
Your pregnancy chiropractor will likely suggest some self-care strategies to complement your in-office treatment:
Safe stretches for pregnancy:
- Cat-cow pose on hands and knees
- Gentle pelvic tilts
- Supported squats against a wall
Proper body mechanics:
- How to get in and out of bed safely
- Proper sitting posture at work
- Safe lifting techniques (because yes, you probably have other kids or things to carry!)
Sleep positioning:
- Using pillows between your knees
- Supporting your belly with a wedge
- Finding the right mattress firmness
Many good chiropractor Melbourne practitioners will demonstrate these techniques and check your form to ensure you’re doing them correctly.
You Deserve to Enjoy Your Pregnancy
Pregnancy should be a time of joy and anticipation, not constant discomfort. If you’re in the Mernda area and struggling with pregnancy-related pain, know that safe options are available.
Visit our chiropractic care center in Plenty or explore other pain management strategies, the goal is the same: to help you have the healthiest, most comfortable pregnancy possible.
Your body is doing incredible work growing your baby. Taking care of yourself with appropriate, safe care isn’t a luxury; it’s an essential part of your prenatal health.
Common Questions About Pregnancy Chiropractic Care
When performed by a qualified pregnancy chiropractor, adjustments are gentle and safe. Your baby is well-protected in its amniotic fluid sac, and prenatal adjustments don’t apply pressure to your abdomen.
In Australia, Medicare doesn’t cover chiropractic care, but many private health funds do offer rebates for chiropractic treatment. Check with your insurance provider about your specific coverage.
The cost for a chiropractor appointment in Melbourne typically ranges from $70-$120 for an initial consultation and $60-$90 for follow-up visits. At The Chiropractic Co. Plenty, we offer $79 for initial consultation.
Many pregnant patients report immediate relief after their first adjustment, while others notice gradual improvement over several sessions. Your chiropractor should set realistic expectations based on your specific condition.
Yes! While many women start in the second trimester when pregnancy discomfort begins, it’s never too early or too late to begin care. Some women even start before conception to ensure their body is in optimal alignment before pregnancy.