Back Pain during Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting journey in a woman’s life. It also marks a time of change as your body prepares to grow, nourish and support the growth of your baby. It is a time when you may look for natural, safe and effective options to support your pregnancy.

Understanding the types of back pain you may experience during this time will help support a more comfortable pregnancy. Pregnancy back pain typically occurs where the spine meets the pelvis at the back (Sacro-iliac joint) or at the front of the pelvis/ groin (Pubic synthesis).

About 80% of women will experience lower back pain during pregnancy. Musculoskeletal complaints like lower back pain should be taken seriously.  Lower back pain during pregnancy is commonly linked to lower back pain persisting after pregnancy.

Hormonal Changes

Your body will make the hormone relaxin during pregnancy which allows the ligaments in the pelvic area to loosen in preparation for birth. These same ligaments also support the spine, and their loosening may lead to instability, poor function and pain. This can be especially apparent if you have a pre-exiting issue before pregnancy.

Posture Changes

Pregnancy will shift your centre of gravity. As pregnancy progresses, it will become increasingly apparent that your centre of gravity is shifting forwards as your baby bump grows. You will likely find your posture adapting to this change, and a sway or arch in your back is normal to counter balance the weight, but it will often lead to back pain and discomfort.

Sciatic Nerve pain

Pressure on the sciatic nerve during pregnancy can create sciatic nerve type symptoms. Most likely it will be a pelvic girdle pain. Occasionally the position of your baby can also affect the sciatic nerve.

Muscle separation

The two parallel sheets of muscle at the front of your abdomen can come under pressure as the uterus expands. Some women may experience separation along the centre seam. This separation will often worsen back pain.

Symphysis Pubic Dysfunction (SPD)

This will often feel like a sharp and overwhelming pain at the front of your pubic area. It can cause a waddle and may create a sharp shooting pain in the groin area.

Stress

Pregnancy can bring its own unique collection of emotional stresses. Stress will ultimately increase the amount of muscle tension in the back. Often ignored, this may contribute to a portion of the back pain you are experiencing.

In our experience, a pregnancy supported by a well-functioning spine and pelvis will be much more comfortable and enjoyable for you. Our aim is to restore any imbalances during pregnancy by using gentle adjustments. If you’re seeking a non-invasive, drug free approach to help support your pregnancy consider a chiropractor as a valuable support person on your team.