Birthing and Back Labor

   A question that has come up of late is, ” I had horrible back labor with my last pregnancy, what can I do to handle it this time?” And there are some things available to help with back labor!

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Any mother can tell you that a typical birth has plenty of pain and stress without throwing in back labor. AmericanPregnancy.org defines back labor as increased back pain during the birthing process. Some of the more common causes for back labor include baby positioning and a prior history of low back pain, especially during the menstrual cycle. I would like to give you a few steps you can take to handle back labor during your birthing process.

Both baby positioning and low back pain have strong ties to the neuromusculoskeletal system. What this means is that these conditions can be assisted in being resolved with manual therapies such as chiropractic and kinesiology treatments.

 

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Muscle inhibition or over-activity, decreased joint mobility and alignment, ligament laxity or scarring, and even organ positioning can all affect the baby’s position. A bodyworker can help restore balance in these tissues to aid the baby in settling into a more comfortable position. Good news for low back pain suffers is that all these same concepts can be applied to you.

To assist with any pain during the labor, the mother can have someone apply a TENS unit to the low back (with the aid of a licensed professional). This may help alleviate back pain during the pregnancy, while being a safer option for the baby. It works by sending electric signals to the surface muscles, helping to block pain. This is also an effective way to keep from using harmful drugs during labor.

Some other things to keep in mind with the birthing process:
1.) Maintain biochemical balance (especially if you have low back pain or severe mood swings during menstrual cycle) by eating a low inflammatory diet (see www.deflame.org).

2.) Use gentle exercise throughout your pregnancy.

3.) Consider a mindbody therapy such as NET (http://www.netmindbody.com/for-patients/an-explanation-of-net) to help aid with the stress and pain of pregnancy.

Let me know if you have any questions in comments or info@DrHartChiropractic.com

This blog is informational only, it is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or a replacement for a visit with your licensed physician.