Causes:
There are two causes for back pain during pregnancy. The first is quite logical: your back curves backwards to compensate for the weight of your tummy. The second is related to all pregnancy-related discomfort: hormones! The relaxin secreted during pregnancy enables your ligaments to relax in preparation for delivery, which causes pain.
The pain is usually felt in the lumbar region (lower back), but inflammation of the sciatic nerve or pressure on it can also cause muscle weakness and spread the pain into your buttocks and thighs.
Severe pain in the upper back felt near the delivery date can also mask contractions.
A healthy lifestyle is the best way to prevent back pain. Even though it may be more difficult, don’t see your pregnancy as a barrier: it is never too late to improve your physical condition and enjoy the benefits.
- Exercise while respecting the new limits of your body. Swimming, prenatal yoga and walking are excellent options during pregnancy.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects. If you must, then use your legs by bending your knees, and not your back.
- Rest: fatigue makes back pain worse.
- Avoid long car rides and don’t stand up for too long.
- Put your high heels in the closet!
- A good body pillow can be your best friend during pregnancy. If not, sleeping with a pillow between your knees can help ease your pain.
- Raise your legs when lying down.
Treatments
To ease your back pain, you can take acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol®). Talk to your health professional. However, certain over-the-counter medications are risky for your baby. Your Accès pharma affiliated pharmacist can suggest the treatment best suited to your situation.
This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice and Accès pharma affiliated pharmacist-owners cannot be held responsible for this information. The information was true and accurate at the time of publication, but it is subject to change.
