Back pain in pregnancy

It is very common to get backache or back pain during pregnancy, especially in the early stages.

During pregnancy, the ligaments in your body naturally become softer and stretch to prepare you for labour. This can put a strain on the joints of your lower back and pelvis, which can cause back pain.

Photo: family.doctor.org

Avoiding and easing back pain in pregnancy

Try these tips:

• bend your knees and keep your back straight when you lift or pick something up from the floor

• avoid lifting heavy objects

• move your feet when you turn to avoid twisting your spine

• wear flat shoes to evenly distribute your weight

• try to balance the weight between 2 bags when carrying shopping

• keep your back straight and well-supported when sitting – look for maternity support pillows

• get enough rest, particularly later in pregnancy

• have a massage or a warm bath

• use a mattress that supports you properly – you can put a piece of hardboard under a soft mattress to make it firmer, if necessary

• go to a group or individual back care class

You can take paracetamol to ease back pain while you are pregnant unless your GP or midwife says not to. Always follow the instructions on the packet.

Source: https://www.nhs.uk