Approximately 80% of pregnant women experience back pain during pregnancy. Though it is a common phenomenon, it certainly does not have to be accepted as part of the process. The causes of back pain pregnancy are threefold:
     
  (1)

Weight gain: with possibly weight gain of as much as a quarter of your body weight, the stress to the back can be great; severe discomfort is more
 
    apparent in late pregnancy when the baby's head presses down on a woman's back, legs and buttocks, irritating her sciatic nerve;
     
  (2) Center of gravity change: with the weight now being in the front, as well as in the back, the change in the center of gravity will lead to muscular imbalances and muscle fatigue; as the baby grows, the pregnant woman's lower back curvature is increased, placing more stress on the spinal disks;
     
  (3) Hormonal surges: pregnancy-related hormones, such as relaxin and estrogen will cause looser joints, particularly in the pelvic area. Combined with weight gain and a changed center of gravity, a pregnant woman will experience decreased joint support.
     
How can chiropractic help?
 
According to the American Chiropractic Association, "chiropractic adjustments provide relief from the increased low-back pain brought on by pregnancy. Chiropractic manipulation is safe for both the pregnant woman and her baby". As well, because a pregnant woman should avoid medications during pregnancy, chiropractic is ideal as it does not prescribe drugs of any kind. Moreover, your chiropractor will be able to teach you exercises and pregnancy ergonomics in order to have a comfortable and healthy pregnancy.
 
Not just for the pregnant woman, but comfort for your baby too!
 
As pregnancy progresses, the uterus' size becomes bigger to accommodate the growing baby. Ligaments connected to the uterus help to support the uterus, so if the pelvis becomes imbalanced, the ligaments can also twist and put a constraint to the uterus, which will prevent the baby from getting the best position for optimal development within the uterus.
 
Your chiropractor works specifically with your pelvis throughout pregnancy to restore a state of balance and create an environment for an easier, safer delivery.