Pregnancy is a time when a woman’s body is going through many changes. These changes can sometimes cause discomfort, including backache. Backache is a common symptom of early pregnancy, and can occur as early as six to eight weeks into the pregnancy. For some women, backache may appear later on in the pregnancy, usually around the sixth month mark.
Women who have a family or personal history of lower backaches are more prone to experience hand and finger pain in early pregnancy. If a woman does not have any past history of pain, backaches may appear as late as the sixth or eighth month of pregnancy. Although lower backaches are a common and safe symptom of pregnancy, in few selected cases where the pain does not subside with painkillers, investigations must be carried out to rule out miscarriage or abortion.
Some causes of back pain during pregnancy have been proposed, including:
– When a woman becomes pregnant, her center of gravity changes, and she puts strain on her abdominal muscles. This can cause them to loosen and lead to pain at the end of the day. Additionally, the weight of the fetus and enlarged uterus causes stress on the back and can lead to an abnormal posture.
-Pregnancy can do a number on a woman’s hormones, and this can sometimes lead to back pain. When the hormonal changes loosen the ligaments attaching the backbone to the pelvis, it can cause instability of the joints. This makes everyday activities like walking or standing a little more difficult, and can cause pain in the back.
-Enlarged uterus can cause compression of the nerve supplying the back which may cause lower back pain in early pregnancy.
There are two common types of lower back pain in early pregnancy:
– Lower back pain (Lumbar pain)
– Posterior pelvic pain
Lower back pain is a common issue for many people, especially those who spend a lot of time sitting or standing. The pain is usually worse at the end of the day. For some people, the pain may radiate down one or both legs.
Posterior pelvic pain is often below the level of lumbar pain, affecting both buttocks. The pain may radiate to the thighs. It is aggravated by walking, rolling in bed, twisting or climbing stairs. Pregnant women can have both types of lower back pains simultaneously, and the aggravating factors must be taken care of.
If you’re experiencing lower back pain during pregnancy, it’s always best to consult your antenatal physician. Pregnancy-safe painkillers are usually effective in managing lower back pain.
