Back pain In Pregnancy

Back pain is a very common symptom of all trimesters of pregnancy. Let us dwell on the possible causes of Backache in Pregnancy. 1. Weight gain.

Most of the women experience gain around 25-30 lbs during their course of pregnancy and this can cause additional pressure on the spine, which in turn causes lower back pain. The growing baby and uterus also exert pressure on the blood vessels, which can worsen the back pain.

2. Posture changes.

During pregnancy your center of gravity changes due to increased belly size, hence the posture changes, which can cause strain on the back.

3. Hormonal changes.

During pregnancy, the body makes the hormone called relaxin, which is responsible for relaxing and stretching the ligaments of pelvic area to prepare for the birth process. This stretching can cause sensitivity in the back.

4. Stress.

There are stressful moments in pregnancy due to the emotional and physical changes. There can be external stress too in a woman's life at this time. This also increases back aches and makes them more prone to fatigue and morning sickness. Seek medical help as soon as possible if acompanied by: 1. Bleeding or spotting. 2. Sharp pain in abdomen. 3. Unusual Vaginal discharge. 4. Increasing intensity of pain with time. 5. Lasts more than 2 weeks. Things you can do to seek relief. 1. Sit in a correct posture. 2. Avoid lying on the back, instead try lying on the sides. 3. Do pre-natal exercises, as advised by your Doctor post 4th month of pregnancy. 4. Take lukewarm baths with relaxing scents and natural bath salts. 5. Massage your back with essential oils. 6. Avoid lifting weights or standing for long periods. Also, avoid sitting or lying in the same position for long periods. 7. Make sure you are taking pre-natal vitamins as prescribed by your doctor. Take care of your calcium intake and take at least 10-15 minutes of sun exposure every day. 8. Use your arms more! For example, when you get up from the bed or a chair. Take your arm support as much as you can instead of putting stress on the legs or abdomen. Also, get up slowly, without any jerks or sudden movements.

9. If you do have to bend, do it by bending your knees, don't bend your back, as it may put you at a risk of pulled muscle.

10. Many pregnant women experience strain in pelvic area and heaviness towards the last weeks of pregnancy. Strain on the back is common, especially when they get up from the bed. It is advised to do some stretching in the bed itself before getting up.