Can a Chiropractor Help My Breastfeeding Relationship?

If your breastfeeding relationship is still rocky, you may have tried a variety of ideas to help improve it. I sought the help of a lactation consultant, my midwife, the pediatrician, and even friends and neighbors. I tried nipple shields, nipple butter, and a variety of other products aimed at nursing mothers. One thing I never tried, though, was chiropractic care. A recent convert to the benefits of lifelong, quality chiropractic care, I can't help but wonder if that might have been the missing link that would have helped improve early breastfeeding.

Can babies receive chiropractic care?

Infants and children can see a chiropractor who specializes in working with children and families. Some families seek chiropractic care as an alternative to traditional methods, while many believe that it's best used in conjunction with regular pediatric care. When done properly, infant chiropractic treatments are gentle, calming, and brief, and pose no risk to your baby.

Do your research and find a highly recommended chiropractor in your area. Expect a thorough evaluation and examination for you and your baby before the first adjustment.

What breastfeeding concerns should you bring to a chiropractor?

Some believe that birth trauma may be responsible for issues that your baby has in their first year and beyond. Among those issues are breastfeeding problems that an adjustment by a chiropractor could help with. Problems sucking, latching, nursing constantly, and frequent fussing may all potentially be aided by good chiropractic care.

Who needs treatment?

Your chiropractor may recommend treatment for you, your baby, or both, depending on the problems your baby is having breastfeeding. If you're new to chiropractic care, your adjustments will be different than those your baby receives. The focus is still the same-getting the body in proper alignment so that it can heal and help itself.

Chiropractic care for the mother may help with breastfeeding and help you recover from changes to your body from pregnancy.

What can you expect from your baby's adjustments?

Don't expect the benefits of your baby's adjustments (or your own) to be dramatic and quick. It may take a series of adjustments before you start to see the benefits of chiropractic care. Discuss your expectations, questions, and concerns with your chiropractor so that you have an idea of what to expect. With any luck, you will start to see some improvement after several adjustments.

Paired with perseverance and practice, chiropractic care has the potential to help your breastfeeding relationship with your newborn baby.