Conditions

Pregnancy

Pregnancy changes your body rapidly — and your spine and pelvis carry much of that load.

As the body adapts to support a growing baby, shifts in posture, centre of gravity and hormonal changes to ligament laxity place significant demand on the spine and pelvis. Chiropractors are trained to assess these changes and provide care that supports comfort throughout each trimester.

BOOK NOW BOOK NOW

At a glance

Onset

Can begin at any stage of pregnancy, most commonly increasing from the second trimester as biomechanical load increases


Location

Lower back, pelvis, sacroiliac joints, pubic symphysis, upper back and ribs


Impact

Significant impact on walking, sleeping, sitting, work capacity and overall quality of life during pregnancy


Prevalence

Up to 70% of women experience back pain during pregnancy, with 20% reporting pelvic girdle pain

symptoms

Patient experiences

Lower back pain and pelvic girdle pain (PGP) — among the most common pregnancy complaints

Sacroiliac joint pain causing difficulty walking, turning over in bed or on stairs

Round ligament pain or pubic symphysis discomfort


Upper back and rib pain as posture adapts to the growing baby

Sciatic-type pain or leg discomfort


Frequently Asked Questions

How chiropractic care may help

Chiropractic care during pregnancy uses gentle, adapted techniques — including the Webster Technique, a specific assessment and adjustment approach for the sacrum and pelvis — to address pelvic alignment and reduce tension in the surrounding muscles and ligaments. All techniques are modified for safety and comfort during each stage of pregnancy. We work alongside your midwife or obstetrician as part of your wider care team.

The information on this page is for educational purposes only. Chiropractic care may assist patients experiencing these conditions — it does not constitute a cure. Individual results vary. Always seek appropriate medical advice if you are unsure whether chiropractic care is right for you.

References:
Stuber KJ & Smith DL (2008). Chiropractic treatment of pregnancy-related low back pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics.
Vermani E et al. (2010). Pelvic girdle pain and low back pain in pregnancy. Pain Practice.