Pregnancy is the happiest moment in a woman life as she prepares for a life with a baby. Cravings for food and mood swings are the common occurrences in the pregnant phase. Back pain during pregnancy also accompanies it and growing uterus and hormonal changes are the reasons. Most pregnant women experience back pain, usually starting in the second half of pregnancy.
Causes of Back Pain During Pregnancy:
- Weight Gain:
During pregnancy, women gain a sizeable amount of weight. The spine has to support the growing weight. The weight of the growing baby and uterus also puts pressure on the pelvis blood vessels and nerves in the pelvis and back.
- Posture:
During pregnancy, the body posture changes without your notice. This results in the back pain.
- Hormonal Changes:
The body releases the hormone called relaxin during the pregnancy that allows the ligaments in the pelvic area to relax. The hormone enables the joints to became looser for the delivery time. The same hormone also causes the ligaments that supports the spine to loosen, leading to back pain.
- Muscle Separation:
With the Uterus expanding, wo parallel sheets of muscles (the rectal abdominis muscles), which run from the rib cage to the pubic bone, may separate along the centre seam. This will worsen the pain in the back.
Treatments Available to the Pregnant woman:
Unless the pregnant woman is suffering from chronic back pain, the back pain will disappear completely before you give birth. There are low intensive methods to remedy the back pain.
- Exercise:
Exercise is an absolute need in dealing with discomforts. Strengthens muscles and boosts flexibility. It eases the stress on the spine while walking, swimming, and stationary cycling is recommended. Your doctor can help you on how to Rid Back Pain in Pregnancy with ease.
- Posture Changes:
Over the years, doctors have emphasised the need for a good posture for everyone to maintain the perfect spine alignment. Slouching strains your spine. So using proper posture when working, sitting, or sleeping is a good move. Take a support belt to augment your body shape.
- Counselling:
If back pain is related to stress, talking to a counsellor or a therapist may be useful.
- Acupuncture:
Acupuncture can be effective in relieving low back pain during pregnancy. Consult your doctor about the practise before embarking on it.
Back pain, by itself, usually is not a reason to call the doctor immediately but if it prolongs and leads to severe pain and cramps, time to call the doctor. Dr Neelima Mantri one of the Best Laparoscopic Surgeon in Mumbai helps the pregnant woman overcome the rigors of pregnancy with helpful tips and advice.