Did you know there were around 3.75 million live births in the United States during 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 mother is experiencing pain or other health concerns like a breech baby, it’s helpful to know that they have more natural, safer options than just drugs and risky treatments. Continue reading to learn what the Webster technique is and how it can help you during your pregnancy.

During Your Pregnancy

During pregnancy, a mom’s body experiences physical and psychological changes needed to prepare for their baby’s development and birth. This miracle of life also comes with some pain and discomfort. The mother 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 mother’s lower back, which happens as a result of the mom’s growing belly. Additionally, moms will also experience changes to their pelvis that are 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 into the right birthing position. This is commonly known as the breech position, which is when the baby still has their feet down and head up. While some babies turn into the correct position before birth, this is not common. It’s not surprising 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 medically necessary, did you know that there are less invasive and risky methods for turning a baby before the mom goes into labor? This drug-free, non-invasive, and safe method is called the Webster technique, which helps the baby turn into the right 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 licensed chiropractor will perform safe and gentle adjustments to reduce interference to the central nervous system and to balance maternal pelvic muscles and ligaments. As a result of these adjustments, this will help decrease tension in the pelvic muscles and ligaments. Most importantly, these adjustments can help promote optimal fetal positioning to prepare a mom and baby for labor. If a mom is concerned about or has a breech baby, the Webster technique is an effective, all-natural option to address the issue.

What Are the Benefits of the Webster Technique?

There are numerous benefits of this technique for pregnant mothers. The main goal is to gently and safely remove any subluxations that prevent a baby from being able to move into the proper birthing 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 Mothers and Babies?

The Webster technique is safe for pregnant moms and babies. When a mother’s baby is not able to move into the right birth position, this can become problematic as their due date gets closer. Unlike traditional methods to address breech positions, this chiropractic technique does not use direct, external force on the baby. 

As always, it’s a good idea to discuss your options with your primary physician and OB-GYN. These experts will recommend various treatments based on your unique 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 pregnancy chiropractor in Lithia, FL, look no further than At Last Chiropractic. Dr. Carissa is certified in the Webster technique and offers high-quality prenatal care for patients in the Lithia, FL area.