Chiropractic care during pregnancy focuses on low-back, pelvic, and hip discomfort associated with a shifting center of gravity and loosening ligaments. It uses modified positioning and gentle techniques. Chiropractic care is generally considered safe for most pregnancies when your obstetric provider is aware, and it supports prenatal medical care rather than replacing it.
Back and pelvic pain affect many pregnant women, and they are often told it is simply part of the process. In many cases, this discomfort can be eased. This page explains what pregnancy chiropractic care involves, which symptoms it may help, how care is adapted for a changing body, and when a symptom should be addressed by your OB instead.
Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?
For most pregnancies, yes. Chiropractic care during pregnancy is widely practiced, and serious complications are rare when a provider uses pregnancy-adapted techniques and positioning. We ask that your obstetric provider know you are receiving care, and we coordinate with them when needed.
Safety comes from adaptation. We do not place pressure on the abdomen. Tables and cushions accommodate a growing belly, and techniques are gentler and more specific than standard adult adjustments. We also screen for conditions that require care to be modified or deferred, including a small number of high-risk situations in which your OB should guide every decision. Tell us about any complications, placental concerns, or restrictions your provider has given you.
What pregnancy discomforts can chiropractic care help?
The problems we see most often are mechanical and caused by weight redistribution, postural changes, and the hormone relaxin loosening the pelvic ligaments.
- Low-back pain – the most common complaint, often worsening as pregnancy progresses
- Pelvic girdle and sacroiliac pain – pain at the back of the pelvis that may occur on one side and worsen when climbing stairs or rolling over in bed
- Hip pain – discomfort caused by an altered gait and ligament laxity
- Sciatica-type leg pain – pain caused by pressure on the nerve as posture changes
- Mid-back and rib discomfort – discomfort that can develop as the rib cage expands
- Neck pain and headaches – symptoms associated with postural changes and disrupted sleep
- Pubic symphysis pain – joint pain in the front of the pelvis that can develop as the pelvis begins preparing for labor and delivery
Chiropractic care is well suited to these mechanical complaints. It is not a treatment for pregnancy complications, and we do not make claims about labor outcomes or fetal position.
How is a pregnancy adjustment different?
Everything is adapted to the body in front of us. Supportive cushions or an adjustable table allow you to lie comfortably without placing pressure on your abdomen. Techniques are gentle, and the pressure used is light and specific.
Beyond adjustments, care may include soft-tissue work for tight hips and the lower back, simple stretches, and practical guidance about sleeping positions, sitting, and movement. Prenatal-adapted massage may also be included in the treatment plan when appropriate. As your pregnancy progresses, we adjust our approach from visit to visit because what is comfortable at 20 weeks may not be comfortable at 36 weeks.
When during pregnancy can you start?
Care can begin during any stage of pregnancy, including the first trimester, and many women continue through the third trimester. Some begin care after discomfort develops, while others start earlier to stay ahead of it. The examination during your first visit determines what is appropriate for you and your stage of pregnancy.
Care can also continue after delivery while the body recovers and the demands of carrying and feeding a newborn place new strain on the back, neck, and wrists.
When should you call your OB instead?
Some symptoms during pregnancy require immediate attention from your obstetric provider or emergency care, not a chiropractic visit. Contact your OB or seek urgent care if you experience:
- Vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage
- Regular contractions or cramping before term
- Severe or sudden abdominal pain
- A severe headache, vision changes, or sudden swelling of the face or hands
- Decreased fetal movement
- Fever or pain during urination
- Numbness, weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control
We screen for warning signs during every visit and refer immediately when something requires medical attention.
Pregnancy chiropractic care in St. Peters, MO
Crosby Chiropractic & Acupuncture Centre has cared for expectant mothers in St. Peters and throughout St. Charles County since 1995. Many of the families we see first visited us years ago with their first child and now bring the next generation. Our approach is gentle, conservative, coordinated with your obstetric provider, and honest about what chiropractic care can and cannot do.
We are located at 331 Jungermann Road in St. Peters and serve patients from O’Fallon, Dardenne Prairie, St. Charles, Cottleville, Weldon Spring, and Wentzville. Call (636) 928-5588 or request an appointment online. Please tell us you are pregnant when scheduling so we can prepare appropriately.
Frequently asked questions about pregnancy chiropractic
Can I see a chiropractor during my first trimester?
Yes, for most pregnancies. We adapt techniques and positioning from the beginning and screen for anything that would require us to defer care. Let your OB know you are receiving chiropractic care, and tell us about any complications or restrictions.
Is it safe to be adjusted during the third trimester?
Generally, yes. We use gentle techniques and positioning adapted to accommodate a full-term belly. Many women continue care until delivery. We modify our approach as the pregnancy progresses and defer treatment if anything in the examination or your OB’s guidance calls for it.
Can chiropractic care help with sciatica during pregnancy?
Often, yes. Sciatica-type leg pain during pregnancy is frequently mechanical and may result from postural and pelvic changes placing pressure on the nerve. It often responds to gentle adjustments, soft-tissue work, and positioning guidance. We screen for other potential causes first.
Will I need to lie on my stomach?
No. We use supportive cushions or an adjustable table so you can receive treatment comfortably on your side or in another supported position without placing pressure on your abdomen.
Does insurance cover chiropractic care during pregnancy?
Many plans cover chiropractic care during pregnancy, although coverage details vary. We verify your benefits before your first visit so you understand your costs. We accept CareCredit and offer in-house payment plans.
Can I continue care after the baby is born?
Yes, and many women do. Recovery, carrying, and feeding a newborn place their own demands on the back, neck, and wrists. We adapt postpartum care to that stage just as we adapt care throughout pregnancy.
Reviewed by Dr. Jenny Crosby Wiemann, DC, President, Crosby Chiropractic & Acupuncture Centre. Read Dr. Crosby’s full bio.
Last reviewed: September 2026
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Chiropractic care during pregnancy supports, and does not replace, prenatal care from your obstetric provider. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
