During pregnancy the body will undergo a number of changes that physically prepare it for the labouring process. As the baby grows, your ligaments and joints will soften and your body posture will change as your center of gravity shifts. Some of these changes may result in back pain.
Back pain in pregnancy is extremely common. It is estimated that 50-80% of pregnant women will experience some form of back pain over the course of their pregnancy. This pain can range from mild and intermittent to pain that is more prolonged. Here are six things to know about back pain in pregnancy.
1. Back pain can occur in different parts of the back
Back pain tends to affect either the lumbar or posterior pelvic region.
- Lumbar region pain – Pain is felt at or above the waist in the center of the back.
- Posterior pelvic pain –This is the back of the pelvis. Pain experienced here is usually described as a deep pain felt below the waistline, on one or both sides or across the tailbone.
2. Back pain usually occurs between months five and seven of pregnancy
Studies show that lower back pain usually occurs between the fifth and seventh month of pregnancy. However, in some cases it can begin as early as weeks 8-12.
