Back pain belong to the most common complaints during pregnancy. Normally, they disappear after birth. But, sudden and severe back pain have to be clarified by your doctor to exclude possible complications. Read more about pregnancy and back pain:
Pregnancy and back pain during the first three months
During the first three months of a pregnancy, the body starts to produce the hormone relaxin. Relaxin is responsible for loosening of joints, ligaments and tendons, the muscles can relax. But, the stability of the spine suffers – and this may lead to pain in the back and pelvic area.
Pregnancy and back pain during the second third
Normally, back pain decreases in the second third of pregnancy but doesn’t disappear completely. During this time, back pain especially arises due to the rising pressure of the tiny yet growing head as well as the growing uterus on the sensitive nerves in the pelvis region. Due to the obviously growing womb, pregnant women tend to a hollow back. The unfavorable posture and the changing sense of balance trigger back pain, too. First sleeping and positioning problems arise at night. Especially when you are used to sleep on your stomach.
Pregnancy and back pain during the last third
The womb’s weight mainly leads to back pain in the lower back. Poor postures and sleeping problems lead to tensions in the back, shoulders and neck. Back pain in late pregnancy also might indicate labor.
How to prevent back pain during pregnancy
Due to physical changes, it is not easy to completely avoid back pain during pregnancy. But, with some simple tricks you can prevent them resp. ease already existing complaints.
- Avoid lifting and carrying of heavy stuff.
- Care for an upright position and try to avoid a hollow back.
- Take a warm bath, place a cherry pit cushion or a hot water bottle on the affected area to ease existing tensions resp. pain. But, some women prefer cold compresses or ice packs.
- To keep a stable position during sleep try to put a small pillow or a nursing pillow between your legs when lying in a lateral position.
- To relieve your spine wear flat and comfortable shoes during pregnancy.
- Wear a support belt. It stabilizes your spine and relieves the musculature in the stomach and in the back.
- Care for sufficient movement. Go for a walk. Do back-friendly sports like swimming. Swimming not only strengthens your muscles but also relieves your body and joints.
- Try to relax. Pregnancy yoga, a comfortable bath or a nice massage are helpful.
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