Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 12/11/2008

Question
Hello,

My question relates to chiropractic adjustment in late pregnancy.  I am 39 weeks pregnant and my baby will not drop and is still quite high in my pelvis.  This is exactly what happened with my first pregnancy, which ended in a rather traumatic emergency c-section.  I am showing no signs of going into labor soon since the baby's head is not low enough to stimulate my cervix, and my OB cannot induce me if the baby's head isn't somewhat engaged.  I am wondering if an adjustment of my lower back and/or pelvic area would allow the baby's head to drop lower.  I have been doing lots of exercises including walking and climbing stairs with only a very small amount of progress.  I have never had a chiropractic adjustment, and have always been a little wary of them because I do not like the sensation of my joints "cracking."  

Please advise me as soon as possible.  I am scheduled for another c-section next week, but would very, very much like to avoid it.

Thank you.

Answer
Hello Hannah,


    Chiropractic adjustments to the Sacrum, S.I. Joint (Sacroiliac) has been shown to have great success in treating breech birth and many symptoms of pregnancy.  The combination of Acupuncture and Chiropractic treatments have the highest effectiveness.  Most often treatment is 4-6 weeks before child birth but this is a option definitely worth trying!

Have a great day,
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.