Back Pain During Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Options

Back pain during pregnancy is one of the most common symptoms faced by pregnant women. It is because of weight gain and hormonal changes in the body. Know the causes, symptoms, and how to relieve backache during pregnancy.

Causes of Back Pain During Pregnancy:

• Back pain during pregnancy is quite common because of the developing foetus’s weight gain, hormonal changes in the body take place, and muscles in the stomach area expand and weaken. Back pain most often starts during the second and third trimesters and can cause significant discomfort and make daily activities difficult. Some women also complain of back pain during the first trimester. Back pain is actually an early symptom of pregnancy.

• The ligaments in the body become softer and flexible in the body as they prepare you for labor due to that which causes a strain on your joints in your lower back, pelvis, and hips. The main reason why ligaments become soft is because of the hormone relaxin, which is produced by the placenta and ovaries. The main role of the hormone relaxin is to loosen and relax the ligaments. Moreover, the hormone relaxin helps prepare the uterine lining for implantation and prevents contractions in early pregnancy. As the ligaments become soft and expand, they make room for the growing foetus.

• As your abdominal muscles stretch and weaken, it leads to poor back posture. Additionally, the back muscles support the abdomen, which causes more pain. Standing or bending can also trigger back pain.

• During pregnancy, the gravity changes as you are carrying extra weight in the front of the body, which can cause strain and pull you forward.
  
  Stress can also be a factor contributing to back pain.
  
  Moreover, if the baby’s position is toward the tailbone or your lower back, it can also contribute to back pain.

Also Read – Pelvic pain during pregnancy

Treatment For Back Pain During Pregnancy:

It is hard to run away from a backache during pregnancy, as it is a common problem. But here are some remedies for back pain during pregnancy.

• Exercise: Working out regularly can help with backaches, as it will strengthen the muscles. But it is crucial to take care while exercising, as abdominal muscles keep changing.
  
• Back support: Support your back with a lumbar pillow or use a maternity belt.

• Find a comfortable position: Do not remain in the same position for too long. Keep moving your body.

• Massage: Back massages can also help with the pain.
  
• Heat Therapy: Heat pads or bottles can be used to relax the muscles. Warm water baths can also help. Do not use a heat pad for too long, not more than 15 minutes, and it should not be too hot.
  
• Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes, especially low-heeled. Wearing comfortable shoes helps to distribute weight evenly. It is important to wear good-fitting shoes during pregnancy as they help to enhance stability and maintain balance. It also reduces strain on the lower back, feet, and ankles. Moreover, it prevents falls during pregnancy.
  
• Posture: Maintaining a good posture during pregnancy is crucial as the centre of gravity changes. Ensure your back is straight, even while sitting.  If you are bending to pick something up, keep your knees bent and your back straight. Try avoiding lifting heavy weights. This back pain remedy can help you ease off pain.

• Sleep on Side: Many pregnant people have noticed that sleeping on the side can help ease back pain. Put a pillow under your knees while sleeping on your side.

• Yoga: Ask your doctor and join prenatal yoga; it will help ease pain.
  
• Prop Up Legs: Elevating your legs reduces the strain on your back muscles. Propping up legs can be an effective way to ease pain.
  
• Belly straps: Wear a belly strap to reduce pain; it carries the extra weight of the developing baby. Belly straps are designed to relieve lower back pain; they are for people in the second or third trimester. Moreover, it helps you to engage in daily activities, keeping you comfortable and happy. Additionally, they can be worn after pregnancy, too. It takes time for the stretched muscles to heal.
  
• Small Naps: Take frequent naps during the day to ensure your body is well-rested.

Also Read – Few exercises that may help you deal with stress during pregnancy

Symptoms of Back Pain During Pregnancy

If your back pain persists, consult your doctor before taking any medication. Mostly, a doctor might prescribe you medicines that are safe during pregnancy. If you notice any symptoms along with back pain, such as sharp abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, fever, chills, unusual discharge, pain in your legs, difficulty walking or standing, and loss of bladder or bowel control. It is crucial to inform the healthcare professional, as they can help you navigate this journey. There are many reasons why a pregnant woman can be experiencing these symptoms, along with back pain, which can signal a UTI, preterm labor,  a miscarriage, or an ectopic pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. What are the common causes of back pain during pregnancy?

Back pain is quite common during pregnancy, which is because of weight gain, hormonal changes, and the centre of gravity.

Q. What role does the hormone relaxin play?

Hormone Relaxin helps to make the ligaments soft so that there is room for the developing foetus to grow.

Q. When should you talk to your doctor?

If you experience intense pain that affects your daily routine, or experience pain while urinating, or experience unusual vaginal discharge, or a fever.

Q. What are some remedies that help to reduce back pain?

Resting well, maintaining good posture, using heat therapy, and wearing supportive footwear may help reduce back pain during pregnancy.