Pregnancy can bring lots of new and unexpected changes to your body—including aches and pains you may not have experienced before. If you’re wondering,
“Can I go to a chiropractor while pregnant?”
… the answer is yes (with a few exceptions, which we’ll cover below). Chiropractic care during pregnancy is a natural, non-invasive way to support your body, manage discomfort, and help prepare for a smoother birth.
Let’s walk through how it works, when to start, and how it can benefit both you and your baby.
Safety of Seeing a Chiropractor During Pregnancy
Is Seeing a Chiropractor Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes, it’s generally safe—and often recommended—to see a chiropractor while pregnant. Licensed chiropractors receive training on how to work with pregnant people, and many even specialize in prenatal and postnatal care.
At Riverstone Chiropractic in Oakland, we use special table cushions to accommodate growing bellies and avoid placing any pressure on your abdomen. Every treatment is tailored to support you in a way that’s safe and gentle.
However, it’s always best to check with your OB or midwife before starting chiropractic care, especially if you have any complications like:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Placenta previa or placental abruption
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Moderate to severe toxemia
How Can Chiropractic Care Help During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy brings hormonal shifts, postural changes, and a growing baby bump—which can lead to misalignments in your spine and pelvis. Chiropractic adjustments help keep everything moving as it should, so your nervous system can function optimally.
Many of our patients report less back and hip pain, better sleep, and even improved digestion or less nausea. Chiropractic care supports your whole body—not just your spine.
What Are the Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy?
Why Should I Have Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy?
Here are some of the reasons why more pregnant people are turning to chiropractic care:
- Pain relief: Lower back, hip, pelvic, and neck pain can all improve.
- Better mobility: You may walk and move more easily, especially in the third trimester.
- Shorter labor time: Some studies suggest that aligned spines and pelvises may lead to smoother deliveries.
- Fewer interventions: Proper pelvic balance may help reduce the need for C-sections or assisted births.
- Less nausea: Some patients experience reduced morning sickness.
Is Chiropractic Care Beneficial for Your Baby-To-Be?
Absolutely! When your pelvis is aligned, your baby has more space to grow and move—which can lead to optimal positioning for birth.
This matters a lot: A baby in the right position (head-down, rear-facing) is more likely to be delivered without complications. That means less stress on both you and your little one.
When to Start Chiropractic Care When Pregnant
There’s no “perfect” week to begin, but many people start chiropractic care in the first trimester and continue throughout their pregnancy. At Riverstone Chiropractic, we typically recommend visits once a month to start, and more frequently as your due date approaches.
Every body and every pregnancy is different, so your care plan will be customized based on your needs.
What About Chiropractic Care and Breech Deliveries?
If your baby is breech (not head-down) in the third trimester, chiropractic care may help. The Webster Technique is a gentle, specific method that helps realign the pelvis and reduce tension in the uterus and ligaments.
This may create more room for the baby to move into the ideal position. A study published in JMPT reported that the Webster Technique has an 82% success rate in turning breech babies to the head-down position when started around the 8th month of pregnancy.
Benefits of Chiropractic Post Pregnancy
Your body doesn’t just snap back after birth. Postnatal chiropractic care helps your body adjust to its new role—feeding, carrying, rocking, and cuddling a newborn all day (and night!).
Here are some common benefits:
- Easing pain from labor and delivery
- Realigning the pelvis after childbirth
- Supporting your spine and shoulders during breastfeeding/chestfeeding
- Reducing mid-back pain from holding or baby-wearing
If you had a vaginal delivery, you can usually begin postnatal care once you feel ready. If you had a C-section, you may need to wait 4–6 weeks or longer—ask your provider for guidance.
Are There Any Restrictions on Adjustments?
Chiropractic care during and after pregnancy uses gentle, safe techniques that are adapted for your changing body. Your chiropractor will avoid any positions or pressure that could be unsafe and will use supportive props and tools to keep you comfortable during your session.
When Is Seeing a Chiropractor When Pregnant Not a Good Idea?
While chiropractic care is safe for most people during pregnancy, it’s not recommended if you have:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Preterm labor
- Severe cramping or pain
- High-risk pregnancy complications (as noted above)
If you’re ever unsure, check in with your OB, midwife, or primary provider before booking an appointment.
FAQs About “Can You See a Chiropractor During Pregnancy?”
Q: Is chiropractic care safe in all trimesters?
Yes! Chiropractic care can be helpful from the first trimester through delivery, with techniques adapted to each stage.
Q: Can chiropractic care help turn a breech baby?
It may. The Webster Technique helps balance the pelvis and is often used when a baby is in a breech position in the third trimester.
Q: Will chiropractic care hurt?
Nope! It’s gentle and tailored to your comfort. Most pregnant patients say it feels like a big relief.
Q: Do I need a referral?
Not usually—but it’s always good to keep your OB or midwife in the loop.
FAQs About Riverstone Chiropractic (Oakland, CA)
Q: Do you have experience working with pregnant patients?
Yes! Dr. Sandy Baird, DC has training in prenatal and postnatal chiropractic care and regularly works with pregnant patients in Oakland and the East Bay.
Q: Do you use pregnancy-safe tables and techniques?
Absolutely. Our clinic uses specialized pregnancy cushions and techniques that avoid abdominal pressure.
Q: How often should I come in?
It depends on your needs. Some patients come in monthly, while others benefit from more frequent care in the third trimester.
Q: Do you work with birth professionals?
Yes! We often coordinate care with midwives, OBs, doulas, and pelvic floor therapists.
Ready to feel better during your pregnancy?
Reach out to Riverstone Chiropractic in Oakland to book your initial visit and learn how we can support you every step of the way.
