​Pregnancy and Scoliosis: What Every Expecting Mom Should Know

​Pregnancy and Scoliosis: What Every Expecting Mom Should Know
By Dr. Marlo Swanepoel
 
Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey—but it can come with unique challenges, especially if you’re living with scoliosis. As your body changes, so does the way your spine responds to those changes. The good news? With the right support and care, you can enjoy a healthy, comfortable pregnancy.
Let’s take a closer look at how scoliosis may affect your pregnancy and the best ways to manage it.
 
Understanding Scoliosis in Pregnancy
Scoliosis is a condition where the spine undergoes a 3-Dimentional change in curvature, which can affect posture, balance, and spinal function. During pregnancy, your body’s centre of gravity shifts forward as your baby grows. This can sometimes make the spinal curve more pronounced, leading to:

• Increased back or hip pain
• Joint instability (especially due to the hormone relaxin)
• Fatigue or postural discomfort
• Rare complications during delivery in severe cases

That said, most women with scoliosis go through pregnancy without serious problems. The key is personalized care and regular check-ins with professionals who understand the condition.
 
Safe & Supportive Ways to Manage Scoliosis While Pregnant
1. Prenatal Chiropractic Care
Gentle, pregnancy-safe chiropractic adjustments and mobilisations can help ease back pain, support spinal alignment, and promote overall comfort. In my practice, I provide customized care for pregnant moms with scoliosis to help them move and feel better throughout each trimester.
 
2. Exercise
Specific exercises strengthen your core and back muscles, offering better support for your spine. Tailored exercise programs for pregnant women with scoliosis can also improve flexibility and reduce discomfort.
 
3. Support Belts for Extra Relief
Maternity support belts help redistribute your baby bump’s weight more evenly, easing the pressure on your lower back. These can be especially helpful if your scoliosis affects your pelvic alignment or causes sciatica.
 
4. Alternative Pain Relief Options
Other safe, non-invasive options include:

• Biopuncture
• Prenatal Pilates
• Massage therapy
• Acupuncture

Always check with your healthcare provider before trying a new treatment during pregnancy.
 
Is It Safe to Be Pregnant with Scoliosis?
Yes! Most women with scoliosis can have completely normal pregnancies and deliveries. However, if your spinal curve is severe, it’s essential to have a customized birth plan and a care team that knows how to adapt around your condition.
With the right strategies in place, scoliosis doesn’t need to stand in the way of a safe and joyful pregnancy.
 
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy with scoliosis requires a little extra attention—but it’s absolutely manageable. At My Chiro Doc, I focus on holistic, personalized care to support expecting moms through every stage of their journey.