Wondering if and when you can receive chiropractic care in early postpartum? 

Chiropractic care in the early postpartum period is generally quite safe, and the general recommendation is to wait at least 2 weeks after birth before coming in. This includes both vaginal and caesarean deliveries. There are certain instances where you must seek medical assistance first, which we will discuss a bit later. 

WHEN TO START CHIROPRACTIC CARE POSTPARTUM

Sometimes new parents don’t feel ready to come in for chiropractic care that soon postpartum, and some feel that they need to come in bit sooner. Both are ok! It is important to take time to bond with your new baby, adjust to your new family dynamics, and let your body start the recovery process. 

To help you feel safe and supported during the early postpartum period, we offer the following:

• Positional support with our pregnancy pillows to help you lie comfortably on the chiropractic table.
• Modifying the forces and chiropractic techniques we use to be safe and suitable for you.
• Mobility and strength exercises tailored to YOUR specific concerns and your recovery.
• You are welcome to bring your baby and a partner or support person to your appointment with you.
• If you have been to the clinic before, we offer extended appointments which allows us to have ample time to discuss your concerns, your recovery and your goals, as well as time for you to tend to your baby if needed.

BENEFITS OF CHIROPRACTIC CARE IN EARLY POSTPARTUM

During the postpartum period, your body is adjusting to no longer being pregnant, which includes the muscles and joints adapting back to a pre-pregnancy position. Low back, rib and pelvic pain can be common, as is pelvic floor and abdominal muscle dysfunction. Carrying and feeding positions can also put a lot of stress on your neck, midback, elbows and wrists. Chiropractic care can help reduce your pain and discomfort in these areas, and in turn improve your function and strength. 

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ASSISTANCE

There are certian circumstances where you must seek medical assistance prior to receiving Chiropractic care, these include:

• New, severe headaches
• Persistent heavy bleeding
• Persistent or worsening low back pain that does not ease with rest, massage or gentle exercise
• New or worsening leg pain, numbness or weakness
• Persistent strong/intense abdominal pain or pulling sensation
• Foul smelling discharge from the vagina
• Increased pain, redness, swelling or discharge from the caesarean site
• Fever, chills, sweating
• Signs of uterine or pelvic organ prolapse.

If you are unsure about returning to chiropractic care in the early postpartum period, it is best to speak with your health care team first (midwife, GP, obstetrician).