Back Pain During Pregnancy ​​​​​​

Ask a pregnant mother what her worst pregnancy symptoms are, and back pain would probably feature high on the list. Here’s how to handle it.

- Cath Jenkin

Aches and pains come packaged up with pregnancy, serving us reminders that we’re not only carrying another human around in utero, but that it’s hard work to do too!

HORMONAL CAUSES

Your back is one part of your body that battles the most. It’s not just carrying extra weight around that strains your back and spine, as there are other causes too. Back pain, specifically in your lower back, can be caused by the release of hormones, including relaxin and progesterone. The release of these hormones can cause ligaments and joints to loosen, as your pelvic area and lower back prepare your body for the process of giving birth.

WEIGHT GAIN

Of course, gaining weight comes standard as you progress through your pregnancy and this can also contribute towards back pain. Luckily, if you experienced little or no spinal issues prior to falling pregnant, your back pain should subside towards the end of your pregnancy. Typically though, all pregnant women experience some level of strain or stress, as their bodies must cater for carrying an expanded uterus and extra weight around.

MUSCLE SEPARATION, SCIATICA AND STRESS

As your uterus expands to accommodate a growing baby, the belts of muscles that run from the rib cage to your pubic bone stretch and could even separate at some point. This can cause a high level of back pain and, when you can’t take most painkillers, this can be quite distressing. Similarly, sciatica can be caused by pregnancy, as the discs in your back take strain, causing your sciatic nerve to send tingling or painful sensations down your back and legs. Also, emotional stress you may experience during pregnancy can cause muscle spasms, which may affect your back.

HERE’S THE GOOD NEWS