Did you know that there were around 3.75 million live births in the United States in 2019? While a healthy pregnancy and birth is ideal, this isn’t always possible for some moms. As the benefits of chiropractic care become more well-known, more moms are benefiting from this holistic treatment that is safe, drug-free, and non-invasive. When a mom is experiencing pain or other health concerns like a breech baby, it’s helpful to know that they have safer, more natural options than just drugs and risky, invasive surgeries. Continue reading to discover what the Webster technique is and why it is important for pregnant moms.
What Happens During Your Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, a mother’s body experiences physical and psychological changes to prepare for their baby’s birth. This miracle of life also comes with some unpleasant pain and discomfort. The mom undergoes hormonal and physical changes that impact their posture, which happens as the baby grows and the mom’s center of gravity shifts. Other changes include an increased curve in the mom’s lower back, which occurs due to her growing belly. The mother also experiences changes to their pelvis, which is needed to prepare for giving birth.
The Breech Position
By 34 weeks, most babies have turned and are face down to prepare for delivery. Unfortunately, around 4 percent of babies do not turn to the correct birthing position. This is called the breech position, which is when the baby still has their feet down and head up. While some babies turn into the correct position right before birth, this is not common at all. It’s no surprise that having a breech baby is the most common reason why moms receive cesarean sections instead of vaginal births.
While C-sections are helpful when necessary, did you know that there are less invasive methods for turning a baby before the mother goes into labor? This drug-free, non-invasive, and safe method is called the Webster technique, which assists the baby with turning into the correct birth position. A licensed chiropractor certified in the Webster technique can help pregnant moms.
What is the Webster Technique?
The Webster technique uses sacral analyses and diversified adjustments focused on the bony structures, muscles, and ligaments of the female pelvis. This technique is designed to reduce the effects of the sacral subluxations or joint dysfunctions. A chiropractor will perform safe, all-natural adjustments to reduce interference to the central nervous system and to balance maternal pelvic muscles and ligaments. Most importantly, these adjustments can help encourage optimal fetal positioning to prepare a mom and baby for labor. If a mom is concerned about or has a breech body, the Webster technique is an effective, all-natural option to address this issue.
What Are the Benefits of the Webster Technique?
There are numerous benefits for moms that receive this technique during their pregnancy. The main goal is to gently and safely remove any subluxations that prevent a baby from being able to move into the proper birth position.
- Assists the baby with having enough room to move
- Helps moms have a more comfortable pregnancy
- Helps moms have an easier birthing process
- Lowers the risk of having a C-section
- Promotes a faster recovery post-birth for moms compared to those that have C-sections
Is this Technique Safe for Moms and Babies?
The Webster technique is safe for pregnant moms. When a mom’s baby is not able to move into the proper birth position, this can become problematic as their due date draws near. Unlike traditional methods to address breech positions, this chiropractic technique does not use direct, external force on the baby. Instead, this adjustment is gentle and safe for both moms and babies.
As always, it’s recommended that you discuss your options with your primary doctor and OB-GYN. These experts will recommend various treatment options based on your specific health needs. It’s also important to visit a licensed chiropractor certified in the Webster technique. You can find a certified prenatal chiropractor near you by visiting the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). If you are looking for the best Parker chiropractor near you, look no further than Awaken Chiropractic. Dr. Alex Willard is certified in the Webster technique and provides expert prenatal chiropractic care to the Parker and Denver, CO communities.
