Visiting a chiropractor while menstruating is generally safe and does not pose a risk to standard procedures of care. Chiropractic care focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, primarily through manual spinal adjustments, to improve nervous system function. For the majority of people, this approach can be a proactive way to manage overall spinal health and may offer relief from cycle-related discomfort.
Chiropractic Safety During Menstruation
The primary concern regarding chiropractic care during menstruation often relates to the body’s natural hormonal fluctuations. Hormones like estrogen and the protein hormone relaxin peak at various times in the menstrual cycle, which can influence the stability of connective tissues. Relaxin, in particular, is known to activate enzymes that can degrade collagen in ligaments, potentially leading to a minor, temporary increase in joint or ligament laxity.
This slight increase in laxity is most pronounced in the pre-ovulatory phase, when estrogen levels are highest. While this hormonal change is a consideration for athletes who may be at a higher risk for certain joint injuries, it does not contraindicate chiropractic adjustments. Standard, low-force techniques remain safe, as they focus on restoring motion to restricted joints rather than forcing movement beyond a normal range. Chiropractors are trained to assess joint mobility and adjust their technique to the individual patient’s presentation, including hormonal shifts.
Addressing Menstrual Symptoms Through Adjustment
Beyond safety, many individuals seek chiropractic care during their cycle hoping to alleviate common menstrual symptoms. Misalignments in the spine, particularly in the lower back (lumbar region), can interfere with the nervous system’s ability to communicate effectively with the body’s systems, including the reproductive organs. The nerves that supply the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding muscles exit the spine in these lower segments, making alignment in this area particularly relevant to menstrual health.
Correcting these spinal misalignments can reduce nerve interference and support clearer communication between the brain and the reproductive system. This improvement in nervous system function may help the body better manage pain signals and reduce inflammation, which is often heightened by prostaglandin release during menstruation. Adjustments to the sacrum and pelvis can help reduce tension in the surrounding muscles and ligaments, which are often involved in menstrual cramps and lower back pain. Some women report a decrease in the severity of symptoms like cramping, headaches, and general pelvic discomfort following consistent chiropractic adjustments.
Practical Communication and Treatment Modifications
To ensure the most comfortable and effective treatment, inform the chiropractor that you are currently menstruating. This open communication allows the practitioner to make modifications to the treatment plan. They may opt for lighter forces or use different techniques, such as drop-table adjustments or soft tissue therapy, to avoid applying undue pressure on the abdomen.
The most common modification involves positioning on the chiropractic table, especially if you are experiencing severe cramping or bloating. Instead of lying prone, the chiropractor may utilize a side-lying position, or a specialized table that features abdominal cut-outs or cushions. Using pillows or bolsters for support can ensure that the low back and pelvis remain comfortable and relaxed during the adjustment. These adjustments help ensure that the focus remains on spinal correction while respecting the body’s temporary state of discomfort.