If you are currently pregnant, most likely you will understand the discomforts of back pain in pregnancy. Between nausea, dizziness, fatigue, swelling of the breasts, foot swelling, abdominal pain, and back pain, it may seem like the discomforts keep on coming as you get further along in your pregnancy. If you are suffering from back pain, it is important to understand the physiological circumstances that cause this pain in early pregnancy all the way through your third trimester. Understand the causes of back pain and how to reduce discomfort during pregnancy to enjoy your time carrying your child.
Back Pain in Pregnancy – Common Causes
Back pain is one of the most common complaints of women. In fact, between 60 and 80 percent of expectant mothers experience mild to severe back pain during their first, second, or third trimester. A number of different factors cause persistent aches in the lower back or the spine. For most women, back pain starts in the sacroiliac joint where the pelvis and the spine attach and become stiff. The soreness can also be caused by weight gain that must be supported by the spine. The growing baby and the uterus will put pressure on the nerves in the pelvis which can also cause pain in the spine.
Another common cause of back pain is hormonal changes. Your body produces relaxin, a hormone that relaxes the muscles in the pelvic area to prepare the body for labor. This hormone can also affect the spine by loosening the ligaments in the spine. As the muscles separate during the trimester, the separation may also affect the back and worsen the pain.
How to Reduce Back Pain in Pregnancy
Now that you understand the physiological causes of back pain, you should consider the following recommendations to reduce pain. One thing to keep in mind is that your back pain will not last forever. If you do not have frequent issues with your back, the pain will ease as you get closer to your delivery. One of the best ways to relieve stress on the spine is to exercise. Exercising strengthens the muscles and improves your flexibility and reduce that chances of getting a back pain during pregnancy. Consider walking, swimming, or riding a stationary bike three times a week and notice the difference. Pain could be reduced by having the proper posture.
Just like exercise is important, so is stress. Avoid strenuous activities that involving bending and lifting. You can also work on improving your posture when you are sitting and standing. When you are relaxing or sleeping, consider the benefits of placing a pillow between your legs to take stress off of your back. This will reduce the strain so you wake up in less pain.
Being pregnant is a wonderful experience that most women want to go through. While women have the privilege of carrying a child, they also get the privilege of experiencing the symptoms and discomforts that are associated with pregnancy. Understand the causes of maternal back pain and follow these recommendations to reduce the discomfort and enjoy the experience of carrying your bundle of joy.