The Webster Technique

Pregnancy places incredible physical demands on your body—especially your pelvis, hips, and lower back. As your body changes, even small imbalances can create discomfort, tension, or movement restrictions that affect how you feel day to day.

The Webster Technique is a specialized chiropractic approach designed specifically for pregnant women. It focuses on restoring balance to the pelvis and surrounding structures, helping your body adapt more comfortably throughout pregnancy.

Many expectant mothers seek out the Webster Technique to support comfort, mobility, and confidence as their pregnancy progresses.

At Life Starts Here Chiropractic, Dr. Katie Gay is certified in the Webster Technique and is an expert at helping women prepare for their labor and delivery.

Understanding what happens during a Webster Technique session can help you feel more comfortable and confident about this type of care. The technique focuses on three key areas:

Pelvic Alignment and Sacral Adjustment

During pregnancy, your body undergoes several changes. Hormones like relaxin loosen your ligaments, your body’s center of gravity shifts forward, and your pelvis must adapt to accommodate your growing baby. These changes can lead to pelvic misalignment, also called subluxation.

Using gentle, specific adjustments, often delivered with a specialized drop table, your chiropractor addresses the sacroiliac joints (the pelvic joints on your back) and the pubic symphysis (the joint at the front of your pelvis). These adjustments help restore proper mobility and alignment, reducing interference in your nervous system and creating more space in your pelvis.

Soft Tissue Work and Ligament Release

The Webster Technique includes careful attention to the muscles and ligaments that support your uterus, particularly the round ligament. As your uterus grows, this rope-like ligament stretches and can become tense or imbalanced, contributing to uterine constraint.

Through gentle pressure and myofascial release techniques, your chiropractor helps release tension in these structures. This work on the round ligament, along with addressing tightness in the gluteus muscles and piriformis, can provide significant relief and support optimal uterine function.

Creating Space For Optimal Fetal Positioning

When your pelvis is balanced and the muscles and ligaments around your uterus are relaxed, your baby has the freedom to move into the best possible position for birth. The Webster Technique doesn’t manually turn breech babies—instead, it removes the physical constraints that may be preventing your baby from settling head-down naturally.

This approach respects your body’s innate wisdom while providing the support needed for optimal function during pregnancy.

If you’ve never experienced chiropractic care, or if this is your first pregnancy-specific adjustment, you might be wondering what actually happens during a Webster Technique appointment. Here’s what a typical session looks like:

Initial Assessment

Your first visit will include a comprehensive analysis of your muscles, joints, and ligaments, with particular focus on your pelvis and spine. Dr. Katie will assess your posture, pelvic alignment, and movement patterns. She’ll also ask about your pregnancy history, current symptoms, and any specific concerns you have.

This thorough evaluation helps Dr. Katie understand your unique situation and develop a personalized care plan tailored to your needs.

Comfortable Positioning

One of the beautiful aspects of Webster care is that it’s designed with your comfort in mind. Most chiropractors who specialize in prenatal care have special tables and pregnancy pillows that allow you to lie comfortably in the face down position. Everything will accommodate your growing belly while taking pressure off your abdomen.

As your pregnancy progresses and your belly grows, your chiropractor will adjust the table and pillows to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the session. Side-lying positions can also be used when needed.

The Adjustment Process

The actual Webster adjustment is very gentle. Using precise, controlled movements—often with a drop table that provides a gentle assist—Dr. Katie will adjust your sacrum and pelvis. The adjustments are specifically designed for pregnant bodies and use far less force than standard chiropractic adjustments.

Before the pelvic adjustment, Dr. Katie will typically address tension in your gluteus muscles, piriformis, and other surrounding muscles through soft tissue work. This prepares the area and makes the adjustment more effective.

The round ligament release involves gentle, direct pressure to the ligament. While it might feel tender, the release of tension often brings immediate relief.

Post-Adjustment Guidance

After your adjustment, Dr. Katie will provide recommendations for postures to adopt (and avoid), exercises, and stretches specific to your current stage of pregnancy and your individual needs. These home care strategies help maintain the benefits of your adjustment between visits.

How often should I receive Webster adjustments during pregnancy?

The frequency of care varies based on your individual needs, but many women benefit from weekly or bi-weekly adjustments, especially in the third trimester. Dr. Katie will recommend a care plan based on your specific situation, symptoms, and stage of pregnancy.

Does the Webster Technique hurt?

The Webster Technique is gentle and should not be painful. Some women experience mild soreness in the muscles being worked on, similar to what you might feel after a massage, but the adjustments themselves are designed to be comfortable. Any discomfort is typically minimal and short-lived.

Is It Safe?

The Webster Technique is considered safe for most pregnancies. The approach is gentle, non-invasive, and drug-free. Chiropractors certified in the Webster Technique have received specialized training in prenatal care and understand the unique considerations for treating pregnant women.

Will my baby turn immediately after a Webster adjustment?

Every pregnancy is unique. Some women notice their baby moving into a different position within days of an adjustment, while others require several sessions before optimal positioning is achieved. The technique creates the conditions for your baby to move, but the actual movement happens on your baby’s timeline.

Can the Webster Technique help with twins or multiples?

Yes, Webster care can be beneficial for women carrying twins or multiples. While the positioning dynamics are more complex with multiple babies, maintaining pelvic balance and reducing maternal discomfort are still important. Your chiropractor will adapt the technique to your specific situation.

What should I wear to my appointment?

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy movement and access to your back and pelvis. Many women find that yoga pants or leggings with a comfortable top work well for Webster adjustments.

Can I receive Webster care if I’ve had a previous cesarean section?

Yes, in most cases. Having had a previous cesarean doesn’t preclude you from receiving Webster care during subsequent pregnancies. In fact, maintaining pelvic balance and reducing uterine tension can be particularly important if you’re planning a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). Always inform your chiropractor about your birth history so they can provide the most appropriate care.

Do I need a referral to receive the Webster Technique?

No referral is required. Many women choose chiropractic care as part of their overall pregnancy wellness plan.

Do you work with military families from the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?

Absolutely. We’re proud to serve military families stationed at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and understand the unique needs of expecting mothers in military families. Whether you’re dealing with the stress of deployments, frequent moves, or simply need prenatal care that fits your schedule, we’re here to support you throughout your pregnancy.

How Much Does It Cost?

Our care plans and pricing are clear, accessible, and transparent. No insurance is required, cash (self-pay) plans are available, and we proudly offer military discounts to the men and women serving at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. For more information, give our office a call!

At Life Starts Here Chiropractic in Kittery, Dr. Katie Gay, DC, is proud to offer Webster-certified care specifically designed for expectant mothers throughout the Maine and New Hampshire Seacoast. Dr. Gay’s commitment to your comfort and well-being means you’ll receive personalized attention, gentle adjustments, and the support you need throughout your pregnancy.

Why Choose Dr. Katie Gay at Life Starts Here Chiropractic?

• Webster-Certified Chiropractor: Dr. Katie Gay has completed specialized training in the Webster Technique through the ICPA, ensuring you receive expert care backed by the latest research and best practices.
• Pregnancy-Focused Practice: Dr. Gay understands the unique needs of pregnant women and has the equipment, knowledge, and experience to provide safe, comfortable care throughout all stages of pregnancy.
• Holistic Approach: We view your care as part of your overall pregnancy wellness team, working in harmony with your OB or midwife to support your healthiest pregnancy possible.
• Individualized Care Plans: Every pregnancy is different, and your care plan will be customized to address your specific needs, concerns, and goals.
• Supportive Environment: From your first appointment through your final prenatal visit, we’re here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and celebrate this special time with you.
• Convenient Seacoast Location: Our Kittery office is easily accessible for families throughout York County, Maine and the Portsmouth area, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your busy life.

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?

Don’t wait to get the relief and support you deserve. Whether you’re experiencing pregnancy discomfort, concerned about your baby’s position, or simply want to optimize your body’s function for birth, we’re here to help.

Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation. During this visit, we’ll assess your individual situation, answer all your questions about the Webster Technique, and develop a personalized care plan designed to support you through your pregnancy journey.

Many women wish they had started Webster care earlier in their pregnancy—don’t let that be you. Take the first step toward a more comfortable pregnancy and an optimal birth experience.

Call us at (207) 703-2479  to book your appointment at our Kittery location.

We look forward to being part of your pregnancy journey and supporting you and your growing baby every step of the way!