Back pain in pregnancy
Every woman’s life includes a vital phase called pregnancy. Most pregnant women have back pain, which commonly begins in the second half of the pregnancy. Usually, the pain fades after the baby is born. However, many women experience back pain for weeks or even months after giving birth. Let’s look at the causes and treatments for back pain in pregnancy in this blog.
Causes
Back pain is more likely to affect pregnant women who already have lower back issues, and it may start earlier in their pregnancy. You may experience back pain in pregnancy as pain in the centre of your back, the buttocks or thighs, the legs, the sides of the waistline, etc.
Back pain in pregnancy can arise from several different things as follows
Weight gain
Although weight gain during pregnancy is normal, your spine must support this extra weight, which could cause back pain. Moreover, the blood vessels and nerves in the pelvis and back are under pressure from the growing baby and the uterus.
Hormone changes
Pregnancy hormones cause ligaments in the pelvic region to soften and joints to loosen in preparation for labour and delivery. The regular support your back provides may change as a result of these changes.
Posture changes
As your uterus and baby grow, your centre of gravity will slowly shift forward, changing your posture. Furthermore, back pain can be brought on or made worse by poor posture, prolonged standing, and bending over.
Stress
Back pain can result from emotional stress(pregnancy mood swings) causing muscle tension in the back.
Treatment for back pain
There are numerous ways to cure low back pain or reduce its severity, including:
- When you’re sitting, be aware of your posture. Sitting for too long may worsen existing back pain.
- Try not to lift heavy loads.
- When picking up something from the ground, avoid bending over from the waist.
- Make sure to use appropriate footwear.
- Pillows placed between your knees when sleeping on your side can help to reduce back pain
- To relieve pain, massage the area or apply heat or ice.
- Back pain can be relieved by safe, regular exercise with your obstetrician’s consent
- Prenatal yoga is another option to calm your mind and back.
Speaking out with your friend or counsellor may be beneficial if back pain is due to stress. - Have a good pregnancy weight gain.
To conclude
Thus, to avoid damage and lower the chance of long-term or chronic back pain, it is essential to treat back pain. In some cases, severe back pain in pregnancy may be an indicator of preterm labour. Be aware and visit your gynecologist right away if you get severe or rhythmic back pain.
