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10/15/2008 - by Anne Marie Nielson
  
Back Pain During Pregnancy

Back pain is part of pregnancy for the vast majority of women. It isn't surprising… the shifting of a pregnant woman's center of gravity as the baby grows can put a lot of strain on the back. At the same time, the hormones of pregnancy are working to relax your joints and ligaments in preparation for labor. Before you resign yourself to a very uncomfortable nine months, take heart. There are some things you can do to help.

Practice Good Posture
Good posture will help while your center of gravity changes. Tuck your pelvis underneath you and pull your shoulders back and down. It will help you stand up straight, preventing you from overcompensating for the weight of your belly pulling on your back.

Stand and Sit Carefully
Don't cross your legs. Not only can this hurt your circulation, it can pull your back out of alignment. If possible, elevate your feet slightly when you sit. Make sure you have your back supported. Change positions regularly. Try not to stand for long periods, and when you do stand, try to rest one foot on a low stool to relieve the strain on your lower back.

Side Sleeping
Don't sleep on your back. Position yourself on your side, with one or both knees bent. Use pillows to support your back and belly. It can be more comfortable to put one between your knees, too. A large body pillow will work as well.

Use Proper Lifting Techniques
Always squat down and lift with your legs, don't bend at the waist. Don't lift with your back muscles or stretch your arms up high. Ask for help with heavy objects or children. Remember your joints are softening, so take extra care.

Exercise
Walk, swim or ride an exercise bike. Use pelvic tilt exercises to stretch your lower back. To do a pelvic tilt, get on your hands and knees with a straight back. Pull your belly in while arching your spine. Hold this position for a few seconds, then relax until your back is straight again. Don't slump. Repeat this three or five times, working up to ten repetitions gradually.

Wear Sensible Shoes
Low heeled shoes work best in pregnancy, not only from a safety standpoint, but they help preserve your back muscles. Lie down when you can and elevate your feet. It will help your back.

Once you have back pain, you can apply heat or ice to the area to help relieve the pain. Regular visits to the chiropractor, masseuse or other alternative therapist may help relieve any tension that has built up. Some women find belly support belts to be helpful.

Be sure and let your care provider know if you develop severe back pain. If your back pain gets increasingly worse or starts suddenly, let them know. If you feel pressure, a low dull backache or rhythmic cramping, let your doctor or midwife know right away, it could be a symptom of preterm labor. If you are also experiencing vaginal bleeding or discharge, seek help as soon as possible.

At , we try to provide you with all of the latest information about going through your pregnancy from your first trimester to the first years of your new babies life. We also provide the highest quality books and products to help you through that time.

Source: http://www.frompregnancytobaby.com/Back-Pain-During-Pregnancy.html