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When Does Back Pain Start in Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms and Management

Back pain is the most common discomfort during pregnancy as it affects about 50% of women. Back discomfort can develop at any time during pregnancy, although it is more frequent later in the pregnancy as the baby’s weight grows. Back discomfort might disrupt one’s daily routine or prevent one from getting a decent night’s sleep. Few natural remedies for back pain, such as using cold or hot water packs, adopting excellent posture, and beginning a lower back exercise activity, may reduce back pain to some extent.

What causes back discomfort during pregnancy?

A variety of reasons can cause back pain during pregnancy. With the start of a pregnancy, some women have lower back pain. Women overweight or who have experienced back pain before pregnancy are more likely to experience back pain during pregnancy.

Here is a list of possible reasons for back pain or discomfort during pregnancy:

Increase in hormones — Hormones released during pregnancy cause ligaments in the pelvic area to soften and joints to relax in preparation for the birthing process. Which shift in joints and loosening of ligaments may affect the support your back typically receives.
Center of gravity – As your uterus and baby expand, your center of gravity will shift forward, causing your posture to shift.
Additional weight — Your growing pregnancy and baby add to the weight that your spine must hold.
Posture or position – Poor posture, prolonged standing, and bending over can cause or worsen back discomfort.
Stress – Because stress develops in weak parts of the body, you may notice an increase in back pain during stressful stages of your pregnancy due to changes in your pelvic area.

How can you manage or reduce back pain when pregnant?

Although, there is no way to prevent bad back pain completely during pregnancy. Although, the following few factors may help to lessen the intensity or frequency of back pain:

Start the pregnancy with strong abdominal muscles: If you’re attempting to conceive, talk to your doctor about certain exercises that can help strengthen your back and abdominal muscles before you conceive. The exercises may assist you in correcting your body and decreasing your tendency to create a swayback posture.
Overweight lifting – When lifting anything, maintain appropriate posture by not bending directly down from the waist. While choosing anything, keep your back straight, bend your knees, squat, and then lift such that the pressure is on your legs. Lifting heavy weights should be avoided.
Raise your feet whenever possible: If you’re going to be sitting for a long time, raise your legs on a little footstool. If one is standing for an extended amount of time, place one foot on a footstool and alternate from time to time to relax the muscles in both legs.
Take regular breaks to get up and move around: This will assist in stretching the muscles and ligaments and reduce back discomfort during pregnancy.
Sleep on a mattress that provides enough back support.Sleep in a comfortable position. Try not to sleep on your back. Sleep with your knees bent and a cushion between them for support. Another pillow put beneath the stomach may also be beneficial.
Avoid wearing high heels: They do not give appropriate support and cause additional pressure to the back.
Sit on seats and couches that provide enough back support: Use a small cushion to support the lower back and prevent tension.
Exercises – Regular physical activities can help support and strengthen the back and abdomen, with benefits appearing within days or weeks. To avoid issues, only perform workouts that your doctor has approved.

Apply heat to the affected region using a hot water bottle or a hot water bag (covered in a towel, depending on tolerance) to relieve back pain.

When should I be concerned about my backache during pregnancy?

Back pain without other symptoms usually does not need any serious attention. But Certain forms of back pain and symptoms, on the other hand, can indicate the beginning of more serious issues. If you are having any of the following symptoms, you should schedule an appointment:

Ectopic Pregnancy Rupture – Severe lower back and groin discomfort can develop when the fallopian tube ruptures due to an ectopic pregnancy. This medical emergency happens in the early stages of pregnancy, usually within the first few weeks or first trimester.
Premature birth labor might be indicated by repetitive cramping.
A sudden rise in the back or severe pain that occurs immediately or gets progressively severe may be associated with a serious illness known as septic arthritis or another condition that needs quick medical attention.
“Pins and needles” in the extremities or difficulty urinating might signal that nerves and blood vessels are under pressure.

FAQ	Answer
When does back pain start in pregnancy?	Back pain is a common symptom of pregnancy, and it can start as early as the first trimester. However, it is more common in the second and third trimesters as the baby grows and the body undergoes changes.
What causes back pain during pregnancy?	Back pain during pregnancy is typically caused by the added weight and pressure on the spine and pelvis, changes in posture, and hormonal changes that can lead to loosening of the ligaments and joints in the pelvic area.
What are the symptoms of back pain during pregnancy?	Symptoms of back pain during pregnancy may include aching, stiffness, or sharp pain in the lower back or hips, difficulty standing or walking for long periods, and muscle spasms.
Is back pain during pregnancy normal?	Yes, back pain is a common symptom of pregnancy and is usually normal. However, it’s important to monitor the pain and talk to your healthcare provider if it becomes severe or is accompanied by other symptoms.
Can back pain during pregnancy be prevented?	Some ways to prevent or minimize back pain during pregnancy include maintaining good posture, wearing comfortable and supportive shoes, avoiding high heels, lifting with proper technique, and staying active with low-impact exercises.
What are some management strategies for back pain during pregnancy?	Management strategies may include using heat or cold therapy, gentle stretches or yoga poses, massage, chiropractic care, physical therapy, and over-the-counter pain relief medications that are safe for pregnancy.
Is it safe to use medication for back pain during pregnancy?	Some over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen, are considered safe for use during pregnancy. However, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy.
Can exercise help with back pain during pregnancy?	Yes, low-impact exercise can help strengthen the muscles that support the back and improve posture, which can help prevent and manage back pain during pregnancy.
Is it common to experience sciatica during pregnancy?	Yes, sciatica, a condition that causes pain along the sciatic nerve in the lower back and legs, is common during pregnancy due to the added pressure on the nerve.
When should I see a healthcare provider for back pain during pregnancy?	You should see a healthcare provider if your back pain is severe or persists for more than a few days, is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or vaginal bleeding, or if you have a history of back pain or injury.