Relationship between pregnancy and back pain

Over 90% of all pregnant women experience back pain during pregnancy. The weight gain associated with pregnancy may cause aches and pains, or they may be because of the normal changes of pregnancy-related hormones on ligaments and joints.

What causes back pain during pregnancy?

There are many causes of back pain during pregnancy. The weight gain associated with pregnancy may cause aches and pains, or they may be because of the normal changes of pregnancy-related hormones on ligaments and joints. However, it is important to note that even if you have no history of lower back problems before your pregnancy, see your chiropractor ensure that you are not suffering from a serious pregnancy-related back problem. The following are some of the most common causes associated with back pain during pregnancy:

1. Pregnancy-related weight gain

Weight gain is one of the most common reasons for an ache or pain in the lower back. During normal pregnancy, there will be a 20-30 pounds increase in the weight gained. This weight gain will place pressure on your spine and pelvis, which may cause back pain.

2. Relaxing hormone levels rise

Relaxing is a pregnancy-related hormone that causes changes in your ligaments to make them more flexible for childbirth. During this period, your ligaments and joints will be more relaxed to give birth. Relaxing will also increase the risk of joint instability, which may lead to back pain.

3. Relaxation of the pelvic muscles

As pregnancy progresses, your body produces a hormone called relaxing that causes the ligaments in your pelvis to become soft and loose. Given that your pelvis and back muscles must be in good health to support the spine, this hormone causes the loosening of the pelvic muscles. Relaxation of these pelvic muscles may lead to lower back pain when you stand for a long time or lift heavy objects.

4. Forward tilt of your pelvis (lordosis)

Changes in your posture, such as forward tilting of the pelvis (lordosis), may cause pain in your back. This is because pregnancy affects the ligaments and joints that support your posture, which tend to stretch or weaken over time, especially under pressure from extra body weight. This will lead to an increase in your pelvic angle (forward tilt) called lordosis.

5. Straining as you try to empty your bladder

As your uterus grows and puts pressure on the veins in your pelvis, it can sometimes lead to back pain when trying to empty the bladder. Also, during pregnancy, you sleep more on your side than in other positions; this may increase strain on the ligaments and joints.

6. Pregnancy related headaches/migraines

Headaches can also be a common cause of back pain during pregnancy, especially if they are related to frequent urination because of the pressure placed on your bladder by your growing uterus. Headaches can be worse when left untreated, since you will sleep more often in the fetal position. Hence, the combination of lack of sleep and frequent urination can cause pain in your spine causing back pain during pregnancy.

7. Swelling of your lower extremities

With the weight gain associated with pregnancy, there will be increased swelling in the legs because of the constriction of blood vessels or retention fluids that cannot flow out easily. This will lead to discomfort in your feet and legs. Also, if you keep standing for long periods of time, the swelling in your legs may be worse, leading to back pain during pregnancy.

8. Stress or anxiety

Stress can be another cause of back pain during pregnancy, especially when combined with other causes such as weight gain. If you are feeling anxious or stressed, your body may experience muscle tension which over time can lead to back pain.

9. Back sleeping during pregnancy

If you sleep on your back during pregnancy, the increased weight in your abdomen will put pressure on your lower back which may lead to discomfort when waking up or when standing. Hence, it is advisable to sleep on your side during the late stages of pregnancy.

10. Positioning while sitting

Sitting straight up with good posture can help ease some of the pain you feel during pregnancy. If you are sitting for a long time while pregnant, be sure to lean back in your chair instead of sitting straight up with good posture. This will help avoid the added pressure that is placed on your spine when leaning forward while sitting down.

Tips for managing your back pain while pregnant:

1. Follow a complete pregnancy exercise program which includes strength training and stretching .

2. Maintain a healthy daily exercise routine to reduce the risk of back pain during pregnancy, as well as prepare your body for labor and delivery.

3. Do not lift heavy objects during pregnancy unless it is absolutely necessary . By doing so, you are putting yourself at risk for injuring the muscles in your back.

4. Take pain relievers if necessary, but be careful with certain types of over-the-counter drugs which contain caffeine or salicylates (such as aspirin) since they can cause birth defects when taken during pregnancy . Talk to your doctor about what medications are safe to take while pregnant before taking any over-the-counter medication.

5. If your job is strenuous or requires you to stand for long periods of time, consider changing your work habits so that the strain on your lower body is reduced. It may also help to use a rolling stool or an exercise ball while sitting in order to ease some of the pressure placed by the weight in your abdomen.

6. Try applying heat to the affected area which will help soothe pain and relax muscles. You can do so by using a heating pad or warm towels if you prefer not to use heat treatments at home. In addition, consider getting a prenatal massage from time to time . In fact, research shows that regular massages during pregnancy have been linked to shorter labor times and reduced back pain during labor!

7. Be sure to get adequate rest so that your muscles have the chance to relax and recover from discomfort. If you are sleeping on your back during pregnancy, be sure to place a pillow under your head when resting in this position at night since it will help ease some of the strain on your lower back which can lead to discomfort if held in one position too long .

8. Be sure you get regular prenatal care during pregnancy so that your provider can monitor the health of both you and your baby. You will also be able to discuss questions regarding your condition, such as whether it is safe to take specific medications, such as pain relievers, while pregnant.

9. If you do not receive relief from your pain and other symptoms after following the tips mentioned above, contact your physician to discuss further treatment options.

The Bottom-Line

Finally, remember that backache during pregnancy is usually nothing to worry about and will most likely resolve on its own within a few days or weeks after giving birth. However, if you experience severe pain in your lower back accompanied by other symptoms such as bleeding or spotting, contractions or pelvic pressure then it could be a sign of preterm labor (labor that occurs before 37 weeks gestation), which requires immediate medical attention!