My Top Recommendation For Prenatal Vitamins as a Chiropractor and Mom

After supporting hundreds of women throughout their fertility journeys and pregnancies (as well as welcoming four babies of my own), I’ve learned that what nourishes a growing baby starts long before birth and goes beyond what most prenatal vitamins offer.   While prenatal supplements are designed to fill nutritional gaps in the diet, data suggests that up to 95% of women experience nutritional depletion, even when taking a prenatal vitamin.  Standard prenatal vitamins provide the bare minimum recommended amount, which is based on outdated RDAs (recommended daily amounts) and they offer less than ideal forms and amounts of the vitamins and minerals which can impact absorption.   

When patients ask me what prenatal vitamin to take, I recommend Needed Prenatal Multi because it provides methylated folate (not folic acid), active nutrient forms for better absorption, and clinically studied amounts of vitamin D3, choline, and zinc that support neural tube development, maternal health, and fetal brain growth throughout pregnancy.  Needed’s products are formulated for nutrient repletion and optimization and the Needed Prenatal Multi provides 8x more nutrition than leading prenatals*.   Another bonus: it is only 3 capsules.  If you know me, you know I am not shy to share that I do not like swallowing pills/capsules during pregnancy (it tends to make me nauseous) and I have many other patients/clients who experience the same feelings.

Why are these nutrients important during pregnant?

Needed Prenatal Multi Essentials vs. RDA vs. other leading prenatal brands

• Vitamin D: supports overall well-being of your baby, healthy bone development, and development of your baby’s teeth, kidneys, heart and nervous system

• Choline: supports the growth and development of your baby’s brain and spinal cord.  Choline can also influence cognitive function.  

• Folate: essential for closing the neural tube, which becomes your baby’s brain and spinal cord, helps blood cell production, and supports overall cell division, growth, and DNA synthesis.  

When looking at prenatals, I am frequently asked why I am recommending a supplement with methylated folate VS folic acid.  Folic acid needs to undergo a conversion process in the body before it can be utilized.  It is estimated that 40-60% of the population has a gene variant that affects this conversion.  When choosing a prenatal vitamin, like Needed Prenatal Multi, I recommend looking for methylated folate, since it is immediately available for conversion (thus better utilized) whether you have the MTHFR gene variant or not.  

Prenatal before pregnancy?

When it comes to prenatal vitamins, I have the mindset “the earlier, the better”.  When working with women on preconception preparation, I recommend at least three months of supplementation with a prenatal before pregnancy.  So many of us are already walking around in a depleted state and early supplementation can help build nutrient reserves. In fact, according to NHANES data, women (including supplement users) are commonly low in critical nutrients such as Vitamin D, choline, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, B6, K, and E.

Support for the Mother 

We hear time and time again about how prenatals are important for fetal development, but one key point to highlight is that prenatal vitamins not only support a growing baby- they also support the woman growing the baby.  Inadequate supplementation or inadequate nutrient intake from food sources can lead to maternal depletion.  Pregnancy is a metabolically demanding state.  Depletion during pregnancy can look like occasional fatigue that is more than “normal pregnancy fatigue”, muscle tension or cramps, mood changes, brain fog, poor sleep, hair loss, and slow postpartum recovery.  These symptoms are often dismissed as “normal” and depletion during pregnancy leads to a depletion state postpartum. 

Supplementing with a quality prenatal, like Needed Prenatal Multi:

• Support nervous system function**

• May help support a healthy stress response, improved sleep quality, and a calm mind**

• Support muscle function and relaxation**

• Support postpartum recovery as nutrient stores going into birth matter for healing**

If you are currently pregnant, trying to conceive, or thinking about trying to conceive, I strongly encourage you to take a look at your prenatal – choosing a high-quality prenatal is about nourishing your body during a metabolically demanding state.  You and your (future) baby are worth it!  

In health,
Dr. Candace

This post is sponsored by Needed, a brand I genuinely recommend to my patients and use personally.

** These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

* Based on the total daily dosage of nutrients provided compared to leading prenatals as determined by IRI sales data as of December, 2025.

Sleeping Tips for Low Back Pain

Sometimes we can notice our back discomfort getting worse at night. This can be for a variety of reasons:

Nerve Compression: Throughout the day you are doing are doing various things and after awhile this can put pressure on the nerves.

Stress and Tension: Our muscles can hold stress and tension we experience throughout the day. When we go to lay down, we can feel this build up. Our muscles can also be affected by our posture, and we can notice it more when we are resting at night.

Here are some sleeping positions that may help decrease your low back pain:

1. On Your Back

On your back with support under your knees can help create the natural curve of the spine. This allows for more even weight distribution that can take pressure off potentially irritated areas.

Place a small pillow or rolled up towel under your knees for more support.

2. Side Sleeping

Sleeping on your side with a pillow in between your knees and/ or ankles can help keep your spine in a more neutral position. This can also help create a more even weight distribution.

3. Sleep in a Reclined Position

For some people this position can create more comfort than lying flat. It can help reduce tension in the low back. Lay on your back on an adjustable bed or prop yourself up with pillows to find a comfortable incline. You can also add a pillow under your knees for additional support.

4. Avoid Stomach Sleeping

If you have low back pain, it is likely that it will be helpful to avoid sleeping on your stomach. This position can create extra stress on your back and neck. It can be tricky to change your sleep position, try using a pillow to help yourself from rolling onto your stomach.

Pillows and Mattresses

It can be hard to find the right pillow and mattresses for best sleeping. It can be a bit pricey too. However, it is worth the investment to get the right pillow and mattress as so much of our time is spent sleeping, and quality sleep is important for our overall well-being.

When picking a pillow, think about ones that will help you keep your head in line with your spine. You do not want one that is too thick or too thin. Some pillows have premade contours, that could be a helpful option for people with neck and upper back pain, as it can help your spine rest in its more natural position.

Also think about getting a pillow that matches how you sleep. Back sleepers may benefit from a medium loft pillow that supports the natural curvature of their neck. Side sleepers may need a higher loft pillow to fill the space between the shoulder and head. And for those stomach sleepers a thinner and soft pillow may help to lessen the strain on the neck.

When thinking about a mattress, what feels the most comfortable to you is important. When deciding mattresses you will want one that helps keep the natural and neutral position of your spine. When testing them out pay attention to the one that keeps your spine straight from the neck to the tailbone when lying on your side. And when you are on your back you should have a natural S-shaped curve without sinking in too much.

Please let us know if you have any questions or if you are need of chiropractic care. We are here to help!

Take Care!

Dr. Alex

Benefits of Swimming While Pregnant: Stay Cool and Comfortable!

Looking for a safe, gentle, effective way to stay active while pregnant and also help reduce pains and tension? Try swimming! Swimming is wonderful all year round, but even more-so in the summer to beat the heat and enjoy being outside. Swimming is a wonderful way to incorporate exercise in your day without aggravating your loosening joints and tight ligaments (reminder: a good goal for most during pregnancy is 30 minutes of exercise a day). In addition to all the fitness-related benefits swimming provides your body and your baby, it is also a great way to offer relief for your tired muscles and joints and may help with other pregnancy pains or symptoms and provide benefits including:

·        Relieving ankle and foot swelling. Submersing your limbs in water helps push fluids from your soft tissue back into your veins (where it goes to your kidneys and then out through your urine). It also can help boost your circulation, which prevents blood from pooling in the lower limbs.

·        Easing back pain: The buoyancy of being in the water takes the pressure off your baby bump and lower back, providing much-needed relief.

·        Improving blood circulation.

·        Can improve cardiovascular health and flexibility as it is a wonderful, low stress form of exercise

·        Reducing morning sickness and nausea: Many women report that the cool water provides welcome relief from nausea and vomiting of pregnancy.

·        Strengthening core abdominal muscles and may help prevents severe diastasis recti.

·        Keeping you cool: It’s challenging to stay cool in the summer, exercising or not, especially due to pregnancy hormones and when sweat glands are on overdrive — but a dip in a cool pool can help, especially when the temperatures soar outside.

·        May improve your labor and delivery experience: Swimming maintains muscle tone and increases your endurance — both of which you’ll be thankful for when it comes time for labor

While swimming is generally a very safe activity during pregnancy here are some tips to keep in mind:

·        Check for water safety. If not swimming in a pool, research the body of water you wish to swim in to prevent water-borne illness. While for the most, part a public beach/lake/river is perfectly fine, you may want to be more cautious with smaller bodies of water, especially those with history of issues or poor water circulation.

·        Swim carefully! Remember, your baby belly can throw off your center of gravity. Be extra cautious when walking on slippery surfaces, including the pool deck, concrete, rocks and in the locker room or clubhouse.

·        Step into the pool or carefully slide in. The impact of jumping or diving into water may be too intense for your loose joints and for baby.

·        Stay hydrated. You are less likely to feel thirsty while swimming. If you are exercising in the water, you still sweat (and can risk overheating). Be sure to drink about 16 oz of water about two hours before your workout and place a water bottle near by to sip throughout the swim session.

·        Fuel up! Regardless of your workouts and activity level, your body needs extra calories to support growing baby and your changing body. Talk with your healthcare provider for specific guidelines and recommendations that suite your needs.

Not sure what to do for water-based fitness? Here are some swimming workouts for pregnant moms

For beginner swimmers:

·        If you only swam occasionally before pregnancy, most gyms with pools offer water aerobics classes, many of which are specifically designed for expectant moms.

·        Considering swimming laps. Complete as many as you can comfortably perform, eventually working up to 30 minutes of swimming three to four days a week. Remember to maintain a moderate pace that doesn’t leave you breathless. (If your head were above water, you would be able to carry on a conversation comfortably.)

·        If the going gets tough, just float...your break will be well-deserved.

·        Use a kick board or raft for upper or lower body exercises.

·        Don’t forget to stretch afterward!

For intermediate and advanced swimmers:

·        If you swam on your own once or twice a week or swam competitively upwards of three times a week before getting pregnant, typically, it’s safe to continue to participate in your regular workouts as your baby bump grows.

·        Be sure to check with your provider to make sure your activity is safe for you and baby.

·        It is important to avoid breathlessness: it decreases oxygen flow to baby!

It is important to be aware of warning signs that it's time to stop swimming:

·        Regardless of your prenatal fitness level, swimming can be hard work — which means it’s normal to experience some aches and pains as you take to the water with your baby belly. Ultimately, you’re the best judge of your limits. So if you experience any sharp pain, shortness of breath, faintness, vaginal bleeding, dizziness, uterine contractions, absence of fetal movements or anything else that just strikes you as not quite right, stop your workout immediately and contact your practitioner.

·        Be sure to consult your practitioner before starting any new fitness routine. If you experience any pain or symptoms, follow up with your provider.

So this summer (and really all year long), be sure to take advantage of all the benefits of swimming…for you and for baby! Stay cool this summer!

Note: If you are going to swim in a chlorinated water, using a vitamin C spray afterward and boosting your Vitamin C are great ways to help neutralize the effects of chlorine on your body.

Prenatal Period- Body Changes, Healthcare and Exercises

During the second and third trimester of pregnancy, your body will go through so many changes. The body’s gravity starts shifting and your posture starts to change, adding more pressure to the joints  and the soft tissue of surrounding areas. These, and the hormonal changes you are going through as well, can increase the chances of joint restriction and muscle/ligament instability in your spine, pelvis, sacrum and hips.  

Common symptoms you might experience during this transition are (but not limited to): 

• muscle tightness 

• soreness

• joint stiffness

• pubic bone pain

• numbness/pins & needles

• most commonly, lower back pain and/or sciatica.

Another common lower back symptom can be caused by irritation to the sacroiliac joint. 

There is weight gain and fluid retention during pregnancy, which can cause aggravation to the joints in your back and pelvis. Sciatica pain can be caused by either the piriformis muscle tightness putting pressure on the sciatic nerve or the growing uterus adding direct pressure to the sciatica nerve at the L4-L5 level. 

It is very common to experience some of these symptoms throughout pregnancy, even during the first trimester. However, it is not something you have to work through and deal with until you give birth. You have options! 

HEALTHCARE

Treatments such as chiropractic adjustment, massage, acupuncture and pelvic floor PT can help you to get back to your pain free self. 

For example, chiropractic adjustments are designed to restore normal joint mobility, improve stability and reduce joint restrictions. The presence of joint restrictions, muscle and ligament instability around the lower back, pelvis and hips, can make it difficult for mom to move around. It also can affect baby's ability to move into optimal position during delivery. 

Chiropractors at our office utilize the Webster Technique to establish mother's pelvic balance and alignment during pregnancy.  With a balanced pelvis and spine, spine and pelvic mobility is restored, decreasing pain and discomfort during pregnancy.  This can help the baby to have more room to move around the womb improving the chances of the baby moving into the correct position before labor, facilitating the delivery. 

EXERCISES

During your body transition through pregnancy, it can create instability in certain areas which can be the root of your pain. Our goal is to prepare and strengthen your body for the development of your little one and delivery. 

Here are a few positions and exercises recommended for core strengthening and muscle/ligament stability. (These exercises and stretches are beginner friendly): 

• Pigeon Pose

• Lunges (Progress to lizard)

• Kneeling squats (Beginners)

• Tabletop (Core exercise)

• Cat/Cow

• Hip Thrust

• Straddle stretch

You can also make modifications during your night time. Sleep with a pregnancy pillow, when turning in bed from side to side keep your legs together and get up from your side (no crunches) when getting up from bed. 

If  you are pregnant or trying to conceive, working with a chiropractor from day one can dramatically improve your body function, giving you and your child the best opportunity for better health. We can help you. Call us today! 

In health,

Dr. Shirley

(216)952-3830

5 Reasons to See a Chiropractor During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of many changes and transitions. While baby is growing, mother’s body is changing and adapting to support the needs of her little one. These new demands, though normal and natural, can cause undesirable symptoms including aches and pains, headaches, nausea and heartburn, fatigue, skin issues, swelling, difficulty with movement, sleep issues, etc. Some of these symptoms may not be completely avoidable, however, natural, conservative care including chiropractic, acupuncture, nutritional support, and manual therapy or exercises may help reduce and relieve them. So, how can chiropractic be beneficial during pregnancy?

1. Ease pregnancy symptoms:

Chiropractic may help ease pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea, heartburn, headaches, swelling in feet and hands, and general discomfort. Through chiropractic adjustments and manual therapy, optimal nerve flow and reduced tension in the body help ensure optimal brain-body communication. If there are restrictions of joints of the spine or soft tissue tension, nerve flow/communication can be interrupted, resulting in dysfunction and unwanted symptoms. Chiropractic care checks for these restrictions and helps

2. Natural Relief from Lower Back Pain:

Data shows that more than 50% of women will experience pregnancy-related low back pain. As the baby grows, the mother’s abdomen grows as well and her center of gravity shifts. Her spinal curves also modify to adapt to growing baby. These changes may put more pressure on joints of the spine, especially the low back and pelvis which can cause pain. Chiropractic care (along with other therapies we offer) may help reduce pain by improving joint mobility and function, reducing stress on the joints, improving spine and pelvic alignment, and decreasing soft tissue tension.

3. Optimal Fetal Position:

The position of the pelvis and sacrum play an important role in how baby is most comfortably positioned in the womb. Chiropractic care assesses mother’s alignment and pelvic positioning, helping to ensure optimal function of the pelvis. This allows baby to have optimal room in-utero, making it easier for baby to move and get into a head down position for birth. Often, babies are in the breech position due to uterine or pelvic/sacral constraints which limit their movement or make it uncomfortable for baby. Proper positioning of the baby may help lower the risk of back labor and/or the need for an unnecessary cesarean. Our doctors are certified in the Webster Technique which is a specific chiropractic sacral/pelvic analysis and diversified adjustment. The goal of the adjustment is to reduce the effects of sacral subluxation/sacroiliac joint dysfunction. In doing so, neuro-biomechanical function in the pelvis is facilitated which benefits both mother and baby.

4. Easier Labor and Birth:

Chiropractic adjustments may help shorten labor and make the birth process easier. If the mother’s spine and hips are able to move optimally and are in proper alignment, and the nerve communication to the muscles of the pelvic floor and uterus is uninterrupted. This may help labor and birth to progress more easily and with less complications. Many moms who utilize chiropractic during pregnancy report shorter labor and less intense labor symptoms. For moms who want a natural, drug-free birth, chiropractic care can help them achieve that goal.

5. Support Overall Health and Immune Function:

The immune system is intricately connected to the nervous system. Proper function of the nervous system is vital for optimal function of the immune system. During pregnancy, a woman’s body is under more stresses and changes, which puts more demand on the immune system. Chiropractors help patients, especially pregnant women, stay healthy and function their best during pregnancy through recommendations for proper nutrition, supplementation, and healthy lifestyle changes, in addition to caring for mom’s neuromusculoskeletal system. All these healthy lifestyle choices can all have a positive impact on mom and baby’s health.

Choosing chiropractic care as part of your prenatal care is a safe and effective option to manage pregnancy symptoms, promote overall health, and function your best while pregnant. Regardless of how far along you are in your pregnancy or what your birth plans/goals may be, chiropractic can help you feel and function your best. Our doctors can share natural and holistic options to help and support you during your pregnancy, playing an important role in your team of prenatal health care providers.

In Health,

Dr. Abbey

Postpartum Care: Coping with Body Image

Postpartum is a period of adjustment and healing for the mother. During this time, you will bond with your baby but you may also experience body changes.  Body pain, urinary incontinence and/or muscle tension during your fourth trimester can be present. The cause? It could have been a strained muscles during delivery, pelvic floor muscle weakness, pregnancy hormones (loose ligaments), breastfeeding positions, holding/lifting baby and core muscles instability/weakness. 

After a few weeks, some of these issues may resolve. But what if you are still suffering from back pain for weeks (even months!) after giving birth? Experiencing urinary incontinence when exercising, laughing or running? Feeling constant body tension and anxiety? If you say yes to any of these questions,  know that you are not alone.

It is quite common to experience some of these symptoms after either vaginal or cesarean birth.  However, it does not mean that it is normal and that you have to deal with it because you just had a baby. Know that you do have options! 

The following treatments can help you make your postpartum journey more enjoyable:

• Chiropractic care - chiropractic adjustments restore joint mobility reducing restrictions in your spine and pelvis relieving any nerve pressure present. When your body is working  and moving properly, it can speed your recovery and healing.  This is a plus during the fourth trimester!

• Massage therapy - postpartum massages may help to relax your muscles, increase blood circulation and lower stress hormones, bringing stress relief. Massage can help during your emotional transition bringing relaxation to your life. 

• Acupuncture - acupuncture treatment can be beneficial with stress management, pain relief, promotion of healthy digestion and improved quality of sleep. 

• Pelvic floor PT  - Specialized PT can assess for any pelvic floor muscle tightness or weakness that can be causing your urinary incontinence and back pain. Pelvic PT will guide you in the right direction. 

Reach out if you are experiencing pain, discomfort or just looking for additional postpartum care information. Your body may need a little push to get back in balance. We can help! 

Cleveland Chiropractic & Integrative Health Center

(216) 952-3830

www.clechiropractic.com

"You Deserve Better than the Standard of Care" - Dr. Candace Gesicki

“You will never get pregnant naturally.”

“You had a baby, you’re going to have low back pain and incontinence when you exercise.  There’s nothing you can really do about it.”

“We can’t do any testing until after you have had your third miscarriage.”

“You are pregnant, you are going to have low back pain and pelvic pain.”

“Your thyroid is normal.  Your symptoms are normal.”

“The pain and numbness around your cesarean scar are normal.”

These are all things patients have shared with me in the last month.  And I wish it was just once, but unfortunately, I am hearing stories like these almost weekly. 

It is not the standard of care to order a full hormone panel, thyroid panel, vitamin D, and more before trying to conceive or after a miscarriage, but far too often do I find patients with a hormone imbalance that can be treated with diet and lifestyle modifications (and occasionally medications).

It is not the standard of care in the United States to refer to a pelvic health therapist after having a baby, yet many women experience incontinence, pain with intercourse, and prolapse.

It is not the standard of care to refer to rehabilitation or soft tissue therapy after a cesarean, yet it is a major abdominal surgery.

It is not the standard of care to order a full thyroid panel initially, but far too often I see patients with a TSH in normal range and (extremely) elevated thyroid antibodies.

Conventional medicine has a time and a place, but it is set up to treat symptoms and diseases with drugs, radiation, or surgery.  Conventional medicine providers use the tools that they have to provide treatment.  Their knowledge in alternative or natural treatments is limited.

How does what we do vary from conventional medicine?

We take a functional approach to your health.  We want you to be an active participant in your healthcare.  This does not mean that we never believe drugs, radiation, or surgery is warranted.  We absolutely refer out to specialists and co-manage when appropriate.   

A functional approach is more complex than “this is low, take this”.  We want to find the root cause of what is going on.  Where is your low back pain stemming from?  Why is your testosterone low?

We don’t have the answers to everything, but I can tell you that if we don’t have an answer, we have no problem telling you this and will help you find a referral to someone that might. 

We are here to listen, to support you, and to provide the best care we can because you deserve better than the standard of care.

Sending love,

Dr. C

Middle Back Pain and Posture

You often hear healthcare professionals talking about relief for lower back pain, sciatica, neck pain but… how about mid-back pain? Is that a thing? Yes it is!

For the past couple months, a higher volume of patients have come to the office experiencing middle back pain for the first time or more often than they used to in the past. What can be the cause? Why the higher incidence?

You see, since quarantine began, majority of companies moved their work remotely. Usually, at home, we might not have access to a comfortable office setting. We take what we have and make it work: the kitchen table, the couch, the floor, on top of the coffee table. When the ergonomic position is lost, the proper posture starts being affected.

Any posture that an individual takes that brings irregular pressure, changes the center of gravity of the body. These changes result in joint restriction, muscle tightness, joint instability, imbalance of joints and surrounding soft tissue. Common symptoms for middle back pain are: muscle tightness, stiffness, dull/achy pain, reduced range of motion of the torso, tightness during deep breaths, and sharp pain.

Poor sitting or standing postures such as slouching, rounded shoulders and forward neck leaning are the most common positions that cause issues in the body, especially towards the middle back. Identifying the bad posture habits and making the appropriate changes is key to minimize middle back discomfort.

Good news, we can help!! Chiropractic care helps reduce joint restriction and improve mobility, making it easier for the body to function. In combination with targeted stretches and strengthening exercises, bad posture can be corrected, helping you to function better and get rid off those bad habits for good!

If you or someone you know are experiencing these symptoms, email me at drdelgado@clechiropractic.com with any questions you may have.

Do not hesitate to reach out!

Dr. Shirley

Schedule your appointment online!

Low Back Pain Relief During Pregnancy | Cleveland Prenatal Chiropractor

Pregnancy is a beautiful stage for women. But sometimes it might not be so pretty. While many expectant mothers walk around with a pregnancy glow, others can experience quite a bit of discomfort in different areas of their body prior to birth.  

Lower back and sciatic nerve pain are one of the chief complaints among pregnant women. This is the result of the changes that mom’s body is going through. Shoulders become more rounded, the curvatures of the spine start shifting, and the center of gravity changes as well.  Additionally, the weight and position of the baby can cause irritation to the area. Lower back and sciatica pain often do not appear until the second or third trimester, but it can be very uncomfortable and even prevent activity for some expectant moms. 

Common symptoms that expectant mothers could experience are: lower back muscle tightness and joint stiffness, muscle spasms, radiating pain down to hips or leg (usually stops at the knee), pubic symphysis pressure or discomfort, pain described as sharp, throbbing, achy and/or dull across the back or hip area. 

Obtaining chiropractic care for lower back pain and sciatica during pregnancy can help alleviate mom’s symptoms and prepare their body for childbirth. A balanced pelvis and ideal core function, will not only help with the mother’s pain relief and comfort, it will also provide babies a better chance of moving into position for labor and birth, lowering the chances to move into a breech or posterior position. 

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is very safe. The techniques that are used, like Webster Technique, are gentle. Furthermore, chiropractors that specialize in prenatal care can additionally teach effective stretches and exercises that are safe to use throughout the entire pregnancy.

If you or someone you know are experiencing these symptoms, give us a call at (216) 952-3830 or visit our website www.clechiropractic.com for more information. 

Do not hesitate to reach out! 

Dr. Shirley