Back pain during pregnancy

Back pain during pregnancy – You’re not alone

Being pregnant means carrying a little person around with you wherever you go, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Even though it’s a really cute little person, this can significantly affect your ability to enjoy everyday activities.^1,2

That’s not only a challenge for you but also for your back, which has to adjust to a rapidly changing body with a whole new center of gravity.

As your baby grows larger inside of you, it affects the shape of your spine. It has to, because if your spine didn’t adjust, you’d simply tip over at some point.² But in some cases, the spine adjusts a little bit too much, creating a hollow back posture that can ultimately lead to pain in the lower back and pelvic area.

Relax!

It’s a common problem. 58% of all pregnant women have pregnancy-related back and pelvic pain.^3,4 So if you’re having mild back pain from time to time, there’s no reason to worry. You are certainly not alone. If the pain is consistent, or turns into a medium or strong pain, then it may be time to try and find a solution.⁴

Fortunately, there’s a various household remedies, therapeutic approaches or orthesis (orthopedic devices or supports) you can use to strengthen your back.

One thing you should definitely not do is nothing. Many types of back pain will not just disappear of their own accord. If you’ve been suffering for a while, don’t try to sit it out, because in a lot of cases, that can make it worse.

Exactly which course of action you should take is up to you, after consultation with your doctor. This website offers basic information, but can never replace the dialog with a healthcare professional, whether that is your midwife, obstetrician or family doctor.