Complications: Diseases or conditions that happen as a result of another disease or condition. An example is pneumonia that occurs as a result of the flu. A complication also can occur as a result of a condition, such as pregnancy. An example of a pregnancy complication is preterm labor. Show Hormones: Substances made in the body by cells or organs that control the function of cells or organs. An example is estrogen, which controls the function of female reproductive organs. Ligaments: Bands of tissue that connect bones or support large internal organs. Obstetric Care Provider: A health care professional who cares for a woman during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. These professionals include obstetrician–gynecologists (ob-gyns), certified nurse–midwives (CNMs), maternal–fetal medicine specialists (MFMs), and family practice doctors with experience in maternal care. Obstetrician–Gynecologist (Ob-Gyn): A doctor with special training and education in women’s health. Preterm: Less than 37 weeks of pregnancy. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): An infection in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. Uterus: A muscular organ located in the female pelvis that contains and nourishes the developing fetus during pregnancy.
The two most likely culprits for back pain during pregnancy are:
How common is back pain during pregnancy?More than 60 percent of pregnant women experience lower back pain, particularly posterior pelvic pain and lumbar pain (see below). You might have back pain in early pregnancy, but it usually starts during the second half of pregnancy and can get worse as your pregnancy progresses. It may persist after your baby arrives, but postpartum back pain usually goes away within a few months. Posterior pelvic pain is felt in the back of your pelvis. It's the most common type of lower back pain during pregnancy, though some women have lumbar pain as well. You may feel posterior pelvic pain as deep pain on one or both sides of your buttocks or at the back of your thighs. It may be triggered by walking, climbing stairs, getting in and out of the tub or a low chair, rolling over in bed, or twisting and lifting. Certain positions may make posterior pelvic pain worse - for example, when you're sitting in a chair and leaning forward at a desk or otherwise bent at the waist. Women with posterior pelvic pain are also more likely to have pain over their pubic bone. What is lumbar back pain during pregnancy?Lumbar pain occurs in the area of the lumbar vertebrae in your lower back, higher on your body than posterior pelvic pain. It probably feels similar to the lower back pain you may have experienced before you were pregnant. You feel it over and around your spine approximately at waist level. You also might have pain that radiates to your legs. Sitting or standing for long periods of time and lifting usually make it worse, and it tends to be more intense at the end of the day. When lower back pain radiates into the buttocks and thighs, it's often confused with sciatica, a relatively uncommon condition. True sciatica during pregnancy, which can happen when a herniated or bulging disk in the lower part of the spine presses on the nerve roots in the spine, affects only about 1 percent of pregnant women. If you have sciatica, your leg pain will usually be more severe than your back pain. You're likely to feel it below the knee as well, and it may even radiate to your foot and toes. And you'll probably feel a tingling, pins-and-needles sensation in your legs or possibly some numbness. With severe sciatic nerve pain, you may have numbness in your groin or genital area as well. You may even find that it's hard to urinate or have a bowel movement. If you think you have sciatica, see your healthcare provider. Call her immediately if you feel weakness in one or both legs, or lose sensation in your legs, groin, bladder, or anus. (This may make it hard to pee or have a bowel movement, or, alternatively, cause incontinence). Who is most likely to have lower back pain during pregnancy?You're at higher risk for lower back pain if:
What can I do to relieve lower back pain?Exercise When your back hurts, you may feel more like curling up in bed than exercising, but don't take to your bed for long periods. Bedrest is generally not helpful for lower back pain in the long run and may even make you feel worse. Exercise may actually be just what you need. Check with your provider before beginning an exercise program because in some situations, you may have to limit your activity or skip exercise altogether. If you get the go-ahead to work out, consider:
Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, you'll most likely have to modify your workout to accommodate your pregnancy. If you're new to exercise, check out our exercise suggestions for beginners. And be sure to follow guidelines for exercising safely during pregnancy, such as avoiding lying flat on your back and being careful when you change positions or get up from the floor. Always listen to your body, and don't do anything that hurts. Finally, watch for warning signs that you may be overdoing things or developing a problem that needs medical attention. Pay attention to your posture
Take care of yourself Taking steps to ease soreness and tension and generally taking care of yourself is always a good idea. At the very least, you'll feel better temporarily. Here are some measures to try:
What if I continue to have lower back pain during pregnancy?Let your provider know if your back pain doesn't respond to the measures above. She can evaluate your situation, discuss treatment options, and refer you to a specialist if necessary. Some options to consider and discuss with your provider:
When is lower back pain during pregnancy serious?If your back pain lasts more than two weeks, it's time to contact your healthcare provider. Call your provider immediately if:
Lower back pain is just one of pregnancy's possible discomforts. Read our article on 7 common pregnancy aches and pains to find out what the others are. Learn more: |