Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also be extremely stressful. Your body is changing, and your lifestyle and relationships are about to go through a major transition. If we are honest, at times it can tap into some deep fears and insecurities.
But what if there was a way to prepare your body for birth? A technique developed specifically for the pregnant mom to prepare her for a safer and easier birth.
That’s just what the Webster Technique was created to be!
What is the Webster Technique?
The Webster technique is a specific assessment and chiropractic adjustment developed for use with expectant moms throughout their pregnancy. It was designed to balance the structures in the pelvis and sacrum, in preparation for a safer and easier birth!
How was it Developed
This technique was created by Dr. Larry Webster after he attended the birth of his granddaughter. Although he had used adjustments during the long difficult birth, he felt that a more specific approach of addressing subluxations throughout pregnancy would lead to easier births for both mom and baby.
This led him to develop this very specific assessment and adjustment. This technique focuses on the alignment of the pelvis, as well as relieving the tightness in the ligaments that support the uterus. The Webster Technique prepares your body for the birth of your baby.
The Webster Technique for Preconception (and General Health)
The Webster Technique restores proper alignment and nervous system function to the pelvis, making it appropriate for use in many different types of patients. In fact, you don’t even have to be pregnant to benefit from this technique.
Since the nervous system sends messages from the brain to the rest of the body, having clear communication pathways are essential for optimal functioning. This is important for everyone, but especially those who wish to conceive. This can affect the woman's cycle and restore healthy uterine function, which may positively impact conception outcomes.
The Webster Technique can be applied all throughout the preconception and prenatal experience. Greater alignment is always a good thing!
My Story
During my first pregnancy, knew that the Webster technique was useful towards the end of pregnancy if the baby was not in an ideal position (such as breach). But even as a chiropractor I didn’t realize how beneficial this technique would be throughout my entire pregnancy.
Since I wasn’t in pain, I did not seek out chiropractic care. I didn’t realize that pain is not a good measure of health, because by the time you feel symptoms you likely have already lost 50-60% of function.
I won’t share the details of my difficult birth here other than to say, I ended up having a 43-hour labor that ended with an epidural and the use of forceps.
During my second pregnancy, I was convinced that there was a better way. This time I prioritized being evaluated and adjusted by a chiropractor. I had the Webster technique done throughout my entire pregnancy. Let’s just say that my second delivery was a much different experience!
This time, my body was in alignment and the baby was in an ideal position. In fact, after a much faster, more manageable labor at home, my baby was born in the car on the way to the hospital! (For more of that story read here.)
During my third pregnancy, I came to believe meditation, regular chiropractic adjustments, and the Webster technique were all valuable for an easier delivery. Rather than have another baby in the car, I planned for a home birth. (Read more about my homebirth experience here.)
Facebook Live Video
If you would like more information about the Webster Technique, here is the Facebook Live video.
Knowledge is power when it comes to optimal health, especially through the preconception, prenatal, and postpartum stages. Chiropractic care is a key component in care for every mom. Even without symptoms, so much is changing in a woman’s body throughout pregnancy so extra support is important! The Webster Technique can support you in having your ideal birth, whatever that means for you!
Also, if someone you know is pregnant or trying to conceive, please empower them by sharing this message. Even if they don’t live close to our office in Warrenville, they can search for a local Webster Certified Chiropractor on this website!
Dr. Jamie