The Pelvic Floor, Pregnancy and Chiropractic… How do they fit together?
We see lots of incredible pregnant women at Evolving Chiropractic for common problems during pregnancy like low back pain, sacroiliac joint instability and pubic symphysis dysfunction.
Research has shown that chiropractic adjustments can have an impact on the strength and tension of the pelvic floor muscles. It also found that pregnant women who received chiropractic care had a greater ability to relax their pelvic floor at rest, which is particularly important during labour. This increase in the relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles may mean that chiropractic care could be of benefit to pregnant women, as it may help them have a natural delivery.
“If we can have an uncomplicated, natural vaginal delivery without drugs and intervention, the baby is better off and the woman is better off. This study we have just done suggests chiropractic care can help women by relaxing their pelvic floor muscles.” Neuroscientist and Chiropractic Researcher Heidi Haavik.
Your pelvic floor muscles are integral to the birth process and to the prevention of incontinence and other issues, which makes this exciting research for chiropractors and for women receiving chiropractic care.
Chiropractic care may actually enhance your chances of having a natural, complication free childbirth. This is great news for both mother and baby.
Pregnancy, childbirth and aging can put these muscles through their paces. Across the world, millions of women suffer from incontinence and related conditions, contributing to a massive emotional, physical, social and financial costs and stress.
If you have any questions regarding pregnancy, pelvic floor or whether we might be able to help you at Evolving Chiropractic, please give us a call on 9736 3322 or email us at admin@evolvingchiropractic.com.au
“Pelvic floor functional changes with spinal manipulation in pregnant and non-pregnant women: A pilot study”. JMPT 2016. In Press.