Chiropractic and Fertility: Holistic Hacks for a Healthier You
Many eons ago, in a galaxy not too far away, a new chiropractor just a few months into practice had a young lady in her late 20s come into the office complaining of low back pain and occasional bouts of sciatica. While taking the history, she also mentioned that along with the sciatica, she had been trying to get pregnant, unsuccessfully.
We did our evaluation, and found multiple spinal misalignments and obstructions in her lower back. We put together a plan of action, which included weekly chiropractic adjustments and a few recommended stretches. Several weeks later, she walked in the office, with a gigantic S.E.G. (Ish-Eating Grin), and proudly proclaimed, “Dr. Rice, my back pain is gone, but more importantly, you got me pregnant!” We had a good laugh, and later that week, her husband gave his two week notice at his company and enrolled in Chiropractic School, and has been a Chiropractor ever since. (Dr. Chris Bolduc Rowan, we salute thee!)
In the US, it is estimated that 11% of women (between 7.5-8 million women) of childbearing age have infertility, which include women who have difficulty getting pregnant as well as women who have trouble staying pregnant.
Chiropractic care may support fertility by optimizing nervous system function, improving pelvic alignment, and reducing stress. Here are some key ways it can help:
- Optimizing Nervous System Function
The spine houses the central nervous system, which controls reproductive function. Misalignments or restrictions in the spine, particularly in the lumbar and sacral regions, can interfere with nerve signals to reproductive organs. Chiropractic adjustments help restore proper nerve communication, potentially improving ovarian function, menstrual cycles, and hormonal balance, which can in turn improve the probability of successful fertilization.
- Enhancing Pelvic Alignment & Blood Flow
Pelvic misalignments may affect blood flow to the uterus and ovaries. Adjustments can correct and balance the pelvis, which will lead to improved circulation, creating a more favorable environment for conception. Proper pelvic alignment can also help support the uterus in an optimal position for implantation.
- Balancing Hormones & Reducing Stress
Spinal adjustments can help regulate the autonomic nervous system, which plays a role in hormone production. Stress is a major factor in infertility, as it can disrupt ovulation and hormone levels. Chiropractic care helps reduce physical and emotional stress by improving nervous system function.
- Supporting a Healthy Uterine Environment
Chiropractic care, combined with soft tissue therapy and lifestyle modifications, can address conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, which may contribute to infertility. By improving spinal alignment and reducing tension in the ligaments supporting the uterus, chiropractic may create a more hospitable environment for conception.
- Complementing Other Fertility Treatments
Chiropractic is often used in conjunction with fertility treatments such as IVF or acupuncture to enhance their effectiveness. Women trying to conceive naturally or through assisted reproductive technology may benefit from improved nervous system function and reduced spinal restrictions.
While chiropractic care does not directly “cure” infertility, it can play a vital role in improving reproductive health by enhancing nervous system function, balancing hormones, and creating an optimal environment for conception. Many couples seeking natural fertility support find chiropractic care to be a valuable addition to their wellness routine.
If you are looking for a gentle, safe approach to improve the probability of conceiving, visit www.atlaswellness.com or call us at 714 540 6792 to schedule a no-cost consultation with one of our doctors. We look forward to meeting you!