Back Pain During Pregnancy

Dealing With Back Pain During Pregnancy

Back pain during pregnancy does not affect all women. Statistics suggest that between 50 to 70 percent of pregnant women will experience back pain at some point. Just because it is common does not mean you should accept it as part of the process. It is wise to address the problem as soon as possible to facilitate the birth process and to make the term of your pregnancy as pleasant as possible.

Any pregnant woman suffering from lower back pain for a long time during their pregnancy (one to four months) should be aware that this could indicate postpartum back pain (ie back pain after birth). This is another reason to seek appropriate treatment during pregnancy. Any lower back pain that persists for more than three months is generally defined as chronic back pain. The exact cause of chronic pain cab often be difficult to diagnose. Typically the pain may either get progressively worse, or it may flare up every now and then before returning to a lower pain level.

The cause of chronic pain can sometimes be difficult to determine. If you are experiencing lower back pain that radiates into your buttocks and thighs, it could be caused by sciatica The cause of sciatica is a herniated or bulging disk in the lower part of the spine which affects a percentage of pregnant women. A clue to the cause of the pain being sciatica is pain experienced in the upper leg that is more severe than your back pain. The pain may also be experienced below the knee as well and even in your feet and toes. Pins-and-needles sensations or even numbness in your legs is another indication of sciatica. In cases where sciatica is severe, numbness may be experienced in the groin or genital area and can cause difficulty in having a pee or bowel movement. Other possible causes of back pain during pregnancy may be related to septic arthritis osteoporosis or vertebral osteoarthritis. Although these conditions are not common it is wise to get an opinion from your doctor.

Generally speaking, back pain during pregnancy is related to more common causes.  Women who are overweight or had back pain prior to pregnancy may be considered more at risk. The most common causes of pregnancy back pain are these:

Increased hormone levels causing pelvic ligaments to soften and the joints loosening in preparation for the delivery of your baby. This can affect the amount of support in your back.

Changes to your center of gravity occur as your uterus and your baby grow, resulting in a change of posture. Poor posture and added the awkwardness of bending can escalate pain experienced in your back

An extra 25-30 pounds of extra weight added to your body during the term of your pregnancy imposes an extra load on your back.

As the result of these changes to your body, back pain during pregnancy can cause considerable discomfort. For effective control over back pain, try to remain fit and healthy during your pregnancy. Women who exercise regularly and maintain their fitness and strength tend to suffer less back pain during pregnancy. However it is important to moderate the intensity of your exercise regimen during your pregnancy and to refrain from vigorous exercises. Lifting heavy weights should be avoided and you should take care to maintain when undertaking exercises.

Tips To Help Manage Back Pain During Pregnancy

Here are some tips to help manage back pain during your pregnancy:

Try to keep your hips pulled forward and your back straight. Don’t be a “sway back.” Women who are pregnant naturally tend to lean back but this leads to extra strain on the muscles in the lower back. Try standing nice and tall while keeping your shoulder relaxed and back.

Avoid carrying heavy objects. If you have to pick something up of the floor make sure to bend at the knees and to keep your back straight. Lift up using your legs while maintaining your back in a straight position.

Wear an abdominal belt or a pelvic girdle to support the weight of your growing baby and spread the pressure on your back

If there is a seat available, use it. Sitting places less strain on your back than standing. If you can’t avoid standing you can try placing one foot on a step or other low object and then switch feet after awhile. This helps to relieve the supporting muscles.

When sitting make sure your back is well supported. A small pillow tucked in behind can help.

Soft mattresses can aggravate back pain. Firm is better. Slat bed bases are good or you can insert planks beneath the mattress to reduce sagging. Some women find that sleeping on their side helps relieve back pain. Try keeping g one or both knees slightly bent. Placing a pillow between your knees can also help with this.

Apply a hot pack to the affected area to ease the pain.

Massaging or rubbing the affected area on your back can help to relieve pain Another option is to invest in a professional massage. Phone around to see if anyone offers a massage specifically for pregnant women.

As a last resort use pain relief but remember to check with your health care provider before taking any type of medication.

The important point to remember is that if you are experiencing back pain during pregnancy, don’t ignore it. Make sure to address this issue properly. You will find that you will rest more peacefully and enjoy your pregnancy much more if you do.