Overview:
Back pain is one of the most common pregnancy problems, especially in the last months of pregnancy. The pain usually goes away after the baby is born, but for many women, back pain continues for months after giving birth.
Causes:
As time progresses in pregnancy, the size of the uterus increases, stretches and weakens the abdominal muscles, which leads to a change in texture and puts great pressure on the back, and the extra weight that a woman carries puts more pressure on the muscles and joints.
In addition, during pregnancy, pregnancy hormones affect the pelvic ligaments, making them softer and naturally stretched in preparation for childbirth. This can lead to stress on the lower back and pelvic joints, which may cause back pain.
Health problems that can cause back pain:
Back pain can be a sign of some pregnancy complications (such as: symptoms of preterm labor). The pain can also be a sign of a urinary tract infection; therefore, she must go directly to see a doctor if the pain is accompanied by any of the following:
- High body temperature.
- Burning feeling while urinating
- vaginal bleeding
When to see a doctor:
When feeling severe back pain, or if the pain lasts for more than two weeks.
Guidelines for preventing or relieving back pain during pregnancy:
- Wear supportive clothing and supportive low-heeled shoes (such as walking shoes or athletic shoes).
- Avoid high-heeled shoes, as they help tilt the body forward and strain the lower back muscles.
- When you need to stand for a long time, one foot should be placed on a chair or box to relieve pressure on the back
- Use warm or cold compresses to soothe sore muscles.
- Sit on a chair with good back support or put a small pillow under your back.
- When lifting things, sit down, bend the knee, and keep the back straight, while avoiding bending when picking them up.
- Sleeping on the side while keeping one or both knees bent, and a pillow may be placed between the knees and another under the abdomen.