Pregnancy is an exciting time in a woman's life, but it can also be difficult and stressful. Morning sickness, apprehension about fetal growth and development as well as labor and delivery, exhaustion, and assorted aches and pains can all be difficult to deal with. Thankfully, regular visits to the chiropractor can help keep a pregnant woman feeling fit and fine.

Potentially Reduce Nausea and Vomiting

Some women have very mild morning sickness whereas others suffer terribly from it--and not necessarily just in the morning, either. While changing hormones are likely the reason for morning sickness, sometimes the cause can be due to a pinched nerve causing hypersensitivity in the stomach or gag reflex. Since no one enjoys throwing up, it's worth a visit to the chiropractor to make sure.

Relieve Back and Joint Pain

The pregnant body releases hormones that help loosen up the joints to prepare the body for the hard work of delivering a baby. This can make the joints extremely sore. The relaxing of the joints can also cause nerves to become pinched or disks in the spine to become compressed or slip. The chiropractor can help make sure you stay limber with as minimal amount of pain as possible.

Facilitate Labor

While a vaginal birth may be the most natural thing in the world, it certainly isn't easy. First-time mothers in particular can have a hard, long labor. Many times, obstetricians make the decision that labor is taking too long and urge the mother to agree to a Caesarian section rather than wait and allow the body time to relax and deliver naturally. Regular chiropractor care during your pregnancy will ensure your hips and spine stay in the proper alignment. Limber joints and relaxed nerves and muscles will make labor and delivery easier. It may also reduce your chances of anesthesia, chemical pain relievers, an episiotomy, and potentially, surgery.

While a chiropractor will not attempt to reposition a baby, if a baby is in a breech position and hasn't gotten into the correct position for birth, regular adjustments in the right areas can encourage the move.

Ease Postpartum Transition

Childbirth is tough on the body. A woman may have a misalignment after giving birth. A pinched nerve leading to sciatica is also common as weight is shed and the body readjusts to life after pregnancy. A visit to your chiropractor postpartum can help get you in alignment again.

Find a local chiropractor to start getting the chiropractic care you need to have a more relaxed pregnancy.