The Webster Technique: What Every Expecting Mom Should Know About Prenatal Chiropractic Care
Pregnancy is one of the most transformative experiences you'll ever go through—but let's be real, it can also come with some serious discomfort. Pelvic pain, round ligament pain, low back aches, sleepless nights... sound familiar?
Here's what I want you to know: common does not mean normal.
Just because these symptoms are frequently talked about doesn't mean you have to live with them for nine months. And that's exactly where the Webster Technique and prenatal chiropractic care come in.
Let's get into it!
What Is the Webster Technique?
The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment designed specifically for pregnant women. It focuses on restoring balance to your pelvis and the surrounding structures—your sacrum, round ligaments, pubic symphysis, piriformis, and psoas muscle.
During pregnancy, your body goes through massive changes. Your center of gravity shifts, your ligaments loosen (thanks, relaxin!), and your pelvis needs to adapt to make room for your growing baby. When the pelvis becomes misaligned or soft tissues get tight, it can lead to discomfort for you and create less-than-ideal space for baby.
When we use the Webster Technique effectively and efficiently, we're able to:
Reduce the effects of pelvic dysfunction
Optimize fetal positioning
Improve overall comfort during pregnancy
Support a safer, easier birth
Your Body Knows What It's Doing
Here's the truth: your body has an innate ability to give birth. For generations further back than we can imagine, women have been birthing their babies. Trust your female body and know that your body was made to birth.
Prenatal chiropractic care doesn't "fix" your body or force anything to happen. Instead, it supports what your body already knows how to do by decreasing tension and restoring proper nervous system function. When your pelvis is balanced and your nervous system is functioning optimally, your body can do its job beautifully.
How Webster Technique Helps During Pregnancy
Regular prenatal chiropractic care using the Webster Technique can help with so much more than just back pain. Here's what we see in our pregnant moms at Your Family Chiropractic:
Physical comfort:
Less pelvic pain and pelvic dysfunction
Reduced round ligament pain (those sharp, shooting sensations)
Relief from low back pain and sciatica
Improved sleep quality
More energy throughout the day
Less nausea, heartburn, and digestive discomfort
Birth preparation:
Encourages optimal fetal position
Shorter labor times
Less need for interventions during birth
Smoother postpartum recovery period
And honestly? When you're feeling better physically, you're able to actually enjoy your pregnancy and focus on the incredible thing your body is doing—growing a human!
When Should You Start Seeing a Prenatal Chiropractor?
There is no set time when you should seek out chiropractic care during your pregnancy. You can begin seeing a chiropractor as early as preconception or as late as the third trimester.
But here's my recommendation: start sooner rather than later!
When you establish care early in pregnancy, we can support your body through all the changes ahead and address any discomfort before it becomes overwhelming. Plus, consistent care throughout pregnancy gives your body the best opportunity to prepare for birth.
Even if you're considered high risk or having complications during your pregnancy, you can still see a prenatal chiropractor. There are a variety of techniques we can use to ensure the safety of you and your baby.
What Makes a Good Prenatal Chiropractor?
Not all chiropractors are created equal, so having these things during your pregnancy will ensure you're in good hands:
Webster Technique Certification—This is a must. Make sure your chiropractor is trained AND certified in the prenatal analysis and correction of pelvic structures. (Both Dr. Connor and Dr. Jaime are Webster Certified through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association!)
Someone who asks about your birth goals—This goes for all your providers (midwife, OGGYN, pelvic floor PT, doula, etc.)! They need to be on the same page with what your goals and expectations are.
Specialization in postpartum care—Your body went through lots of changes, and having continued chiropractic care after birth can help maximize recovery, support quicker healing, help with postural changes associated with new motherhood, and more!
Prenatal Chiropractic Isn't Just About Pain Relief
While we absolutely help with physical discomfort, prenatal chiropractic care is about so much more. It's about supporting normal physiological function throughout pregnancy and during birth. It's about giving your baby the best environment possible. It's about empowering you to feel confident and prepared.
Women at Your Family Chiropractic who are under chiropractic care during pregnancy are shown to have shorter labors, less need for interventions, and improved recovery in the postpartum period. Not bad, right?
You Deserve to Feel Amazing
Pregnancy can bring on a lot of physical discomfort, but seeing a chiropractor regularly during pregnancy can aid in reducing the intensity and frequency of these ailments. There are also additional benefits outside of physical discomfort like less nausea and heartburn, more energy and focus, restful sleep, and improved digestion.
You've got this! And we're here to support you every step of the way.
If you are expecting a baby, consider consulting with a qualified prenatal chiropractor to experience the potential benefits of a healthier and more comfortable pregnancy journey!
Ready to feel your best during pregnancy?
Call our office at 913-667-9126 or click here to get started. Let's make sure you're thriving as you prepare to meet your little one.
For all things pregnancy, postpartum, and holistic chiropractic care, follow along on Instagram @yourfamilychirokc.
