Is Chiropractic Safe During Pregnancy?

May 30, 2025
David Diehm
Women's Health

Is Chiropractic Safe During Pregnancy? Everything You Need to Know

Pregnancy is a beautiful phase of life, but it often comes with physical discomfort, especially as the baby grows and the body changes. Many women seek safe, natural ways to ease the aches and pains of pregnancy—and one increasingly popular option is chiropractic care. But is chiropractic safe during pregnancy? In this blog, we’ll explore the research, expert recommendations, and key considerations to help you make an informed decision.

What Is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper alignment of the spine and nervous system. Chiropractors in Australia are primary healthcare providers who complete a minimum of five years of university education and are regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Practicing chiropractors must also be registered with the Australian Chiropractic Board and must meet continuing professional development requirements to maintain their registration. Chiropractors use hands-on techniques to adjust the spine and joints, aiming to relieve pain, improve mobility, and support overall wellness.

They use hands-on techniques to adjust the spine and joints, aiming to relieve pain, improve mobility, and support overall wellness.

Chiropractors may also provide advice on posture, exercise, ergonomic support, and nutrition—especially important during pregnancy.

Is Chiropractic Safe During Pregnancy?

The short answer is: Yes—when provided by a trained professional, chiropractic care is generally considered safe for most pregnant women.

A 2012 review published in the journal Chiropractic & Manual Therapies concluded that chiropractic care during pregnancy is associated with positive maternal and fetal outcomes and is rarely associated with adverse events. In fact, many women report high satisfaction with the care they receive.

❝ Women receiving chiropractic care through their pregnancy consistently report a high level of satisfaction with their outcomes. Adjustments can help relieve tension in the back, hips, and pelvis, reducing pain and improving mobility. ❞

Additional studies support these findings. A 2014 prospective cohort study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that over 75% of pregnant women reported significant symptom relief—particularly for low back and pelvic pain—within just a few visits. These improvements were sustained throughout pregnancy, highlighting the potential benefits of chiropractic care for maternal comfort and function.

Chiropractic care is also a drug-free and non-invasive approach, making it an appealing option for women seeking natural ways to manage pain and mobility concerns without medication.

Benefits of Chiropractic During Pregnancy

Pain relief: Back, hip, and pelvic pain are common in pregnancy, and chiropractic care may ease these symptoms.
Improved pelvic alignment: Can help support optimal fetal positioning and reduce complications during labour.
Better mobility: Enhances comfort and range of motion, making day-to-day activities easier.
Improved nervous system function: Proper alignment supports overall body function and wellness.

When Chiropractic Should Be Avoided

Although chiropractic care is typically safe, there are a few contraindications that require caution. Chiropractic adjustments may not be recommended if you experience:

Vaginal bleeding
Placenta abruption
Ectopic pregnancy
Moderate to severe toxemia (pre-eclampsia)

Always communicate openly with your chiropractor and primary healthcare provider throughout your pregnancy.

Gentle Techniques for Expecting Mothers

During pregnancy, hormone changes (like relaxin) lead to ligamentous laxity. This means chiropractors can use very gentle, low-force techniques to restore alignment and reduce discomfort.

Qualified pregnancy chiropractors will often have:

Adjustable treatment tables to accommodate your belly
Support pillows for additional comfort
Training in pregnancy-specific techniques, such as the Webster Technique
Family friendly practice

The Webster Technique is a specialised, gentle approach focused on aligning the sacrum and releasing surrounding muscles. This technique is widely used and supported by chiropractors experienced in prenatal care.

Choosing the Right Chiropractor During Pregnancy

To ensure safety and effectiveness, look for a chiropractor who:

Is experienced in prenatal care
Webster Technique certified
Understands the spine and pelvic changes occurring with pregnancy
Offers a welcoming, supportive environment for expecting mothers
Collaborates with other healthcare professionals when needed
Understand complementary resources like Spinning Babies

At Family Life Chiropractic in Newcastle, we provide gentle, tailored care using techniques like Webster, SOT, Activator Method, and drop-table adjustments—all adapted to your stage of pregnancy and comfort level.

Final Thoughts: Is Chiropractic Safe During Pregnancy?

Chiropractic care can be a safe and effective way to manage common discomforts during pregnancy. By working with a trained, experienced chiropractor, you can support your spinal health, ease pain, and prepare your body for birth naturally.

As always, speak to your healthcare provider before beginning any new form of care during pregnancy.

👉 If you’re ready to visit and have your spine assessed using the Webster Technique, book an appointment online today.

👉 Want to understand more about the changes occurring in your spine and pelvis during pregnancy? Or browse our frequently asked questions about seeing a pregnancy chiropractor in Newcastle? Visit our pregnancy chiropractic page.

❝ Is chiropractic safe during pregnancy? The evidence says yes—when delivered by qualified professionals, it can be a gentle, effective, and empowering form of care for expecting mothers. ❞