Monday, July 23, 2012

Back pain during pregnancy

Back pain during pregancy

Back Pain and Pregnancy - Is There a Relation?

Author: Janet Dawson

Back pain is prevalent in an estimated 80% of pregnant women; thus, it is easy to point out that there is a direct relation between back pain and pregnancy. Back pain in pregnant patients however is not completely understood. Thus, there aren't a lot of treatment options. With improved awareness on both the physician and patients, treatment options that can be used for back pain and pregnancy can be improved.

Why Do Pregnant Women Experience Back Pain?

There are many possible causes of back pain and pregnancy stage isn't an exception to these. During pregnancy, back pain is caused by the strain on the back muscles due to the added weight of the baby in the womb. During mid-pregnancy, the uterus becomes heavier and there is a change in the center of gravity. In response, the posture changes and most pregnant women tend to lean backwards in the later stage of pregnancy, making the muscles on their back work harder. Posture and strain are a common link between back pain and pregnancy.

The weakening of abdominal muscles is also one of the causes of back pain during pregnancy. Because the abdominal muscles provide the spine with the support it needs, they play a very important role in the back's health. During pregnancy, the abdominal muscles may weaken and become stretched, thereby causing back pain. The weakening of abdominal muscles also makes pregnant women prone to back injury. This is the second link between back pain and pregnancy.

Pregnancy hormone is another factor that causes back pain in pregnant women. Pregnancy hormones are responsible for relaxing the ligaments along the weight-bearing joints in the pelvis in order to make the passage of the baby through the pelvis easier. Though the loosening of the pelvis can contribute to the flexibility of the joints, too much flexibility and mobility of the joints can cause back pain. This brings us to a connection between back pain and pregnancy.

Because of the things linking back pain and pregnancy, almost all pregnant women experience back pain. But pregnant women have nothing to worry about because there are measures you can take to get rid of the pain from back pain and pregnancy. Read on for some tips to follow:

  • Correct posture reduces the intensity of back pain during pregnancy
  • Always be careful when sitting or standing
  • Do not lie on your back
  • Never lift or carry heavy objects
  • If you really have to lift, do it with extra care
  • Equip yourself with the proper gear like low-heeled shoes
  • Heat, cold, and back rub are good for your condition
  • Stay fit
  • Ask your doctor for appropriate pregnancy exercises
  • Consult your doctor when pain persists

There you go, some explanations of the relation between back pain and pregnancy as well as the things you can do to relieve yourself from the back pain caused by pregnancy. If symptoms still persist, make sure to consult with your doctor immediately. Never ever assume especially in terms of medication you are going to take. Remember, your condition is very sensitive so it's better to depend on a professional in your condition.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/womens-health-articles/back-pain-and-pregnancy-is-there-a-relation-2816282.html

About the Author

Did you find those information on back pain and pregnancy helpful? Then make sure to
visit www.LowerBackPainCausesInfo.com and learn more about back pain.


These exercises can help alleviate back pain during pregnancy and keep you fit. It will also show you how to easily shed the post baby pounds. Read more here

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