The majority of women who are pregnant will suffer from back pain at some point during their pregnancy. There are various causes of back pain during pregnancy. Most cases of pregnancy backache are nothing to worry about.

Types of Back Pain During Pregnancy

The three types of backaches associated with pregnancy are:

• Pain in the lower back that happens when you are sitting or standing
• Pain that is felt in the back of the pelvis and the buttocks
• Pain that is felt while in bed in the lower back

Causes of Back Pain During Pregnancy

Backaches during pregnancy are usually due to:

• Strain on the muscles of the back from the extra weight associated with pregnancy
• Posture changes as a result of the extra weight – your center of gravity moves forward and can strain the lower back
• Abdominal muscles that are weakened or stretched, as the abdomen supports the back

What you can do?

You may not be able to completely avoid back pain during pregnancy, but you there are things you can do to reduce the discomfort you experience. Try these tips:

• Maintain good posture at all times, keeping your hips tucked forward and your back straight
• Wear sensible, low heeled shoes that have arch support – no high heels!
• Do not lift any heavy objects. If you are lifting an object off the floor, bend at the knees, rise up slowly and maintain a straight back
• Keep frequently used items in an easily accessible place so you do not have to do a lot of bending and stretching
• Do not stand for long periods of time, as this puts too much strain on the body. If standing is unavoidable, place one foot up on a footstool to relieve some of the pressure, and alternate feet occasionally.
• Sleep on your left side for best circulation, with pillows between your legs to support your back.
• Sleep on a firm mattress to support your back while you sleep. If your mattress is too soft, place a board in between the mattress and box springs to give more support.
• Support your growing belly with an abdominal support girdle.
• For pain relief, try a heating pad and cold compresses.
• Check with your healthcare provider to see what exercises they recommend to safely strengthen the muscles of your abdomen and back.
• Have your partner roll a tennis ball up and down your back for a relaxing massage.

When to call the doctor?

You should call your doctor anytime you think something just isn’t right, and when:

• The pain is severe
• You have a fever
• You are in the second or third trimester and you are having lower back pain. You might be having preterm labor.
• Pain that seems to radiate out from a set point
• Numbness, weakness, or tingling in your legs.  (end)