Back pain during pregnancy at different times: causes, treatment, full description of the problem. Back pain during pregnancy: causes, symptoms, treatment

The myth that pregnancy is a carefree and happy period of life was invented by those rare women who had it in good health, without nausea, pain in all parts of the body alternately or immediately, and constant fatigue. There are few such lucky ones.

For most, pregnancy, especially in the later stages, is overshadowed by a variety of unpleasant sensations. Among the most common are pain in the back and lower back. It can be caused by a general load on the spine, or it can be the result of a serious problem, the fight against which must be started as soon as possible.

Three quarters of women in late pregnancy, in the third trimester, experience pain in the back and lower back. It is almost impossible to avoid their occurrence, such pains are considered a conditional norm, therefore, to begin with, consider this case.

The nature of the pain can be different, most often pain and discomfort in the back occur after physical exertion. But the pain can be constant, intensify by the end of the term, or vice versa - decrease.

In most cases the cause of the pain is one of the natural processes associated with pregnancy:

action of hormones. During pregnancy, the body prepares for childbirth, the hormone relaxin begins to be produced in large quantities. Under its action, the pelvis expands, but as a side effect, all other ligaments in the body soften, including those supporting the spine. The tension in the back increases, and the body gives a signal to tighten the muscles around the spine in order to redistribute the load. This constant tension is what gives pain;
the more the belly grows, the more the center of gravity shifts, this causes changes in posture and increases the load on the spine, which it cannot cope with;
body weight during pregnancy increases significantly, creating a stress load on the musculoskeletal system;
insufficient development of the back muscles, which is a consequence of a sedentary lifestyle before pregnancy, leads to the fact that they are not able to withstand loads increased many times over;
Another factor that provokes the occurrence of pain can be psychological stress, it primarily manifests itself where the tension of the body's forces is greatest. And the back is a “weak link”, especially in the later stages;
in early pregnancy, pain can be a natural sign that the fertilizing egg is embedded in the uterine wall;
just before childbirth, uterine tension and prenatal processes often lead to pain.

In addition to these causes, there are less favorable, but also often causing pain. During pregnancy, the body significantly reduces immunity so as not to reject the foreign body - the child, reducing the conflict between defense mechanisms and the function of nutrition and protection of the fetus.

Against the background of reduced immunity, the following may worsen:

diseases of the spine, undiagnosed or undertreated before pregnancy, with one hundred percent probability will make themselves felt during this difficult period;
inflammation of the muscles caused by hypothermia;
the pancreas often suffers from an incorrect, too fatty diet;
The kidneys are another possible source of problems, and pyelonephritis is often diagnosed during pregnancy. A sign of this dangerous disease is primarily pain, it occurs on one side in the lumbar region or slightly lower, accompanied by an increase in overall temperature, a general deterioration in well-being. If untreated, the development of pyelonephritis can cause kidney failure and threaten the life of the mother and baby.

When to See a Doctor

You can determine whether the pain is caused by relatively harmless processes occurring in the body, and whether it is worth signing up for an extraordinary visit to the doctor. on several grounds:

the nature of the pain. Sharp and severe pain indicates an infectious or other acute process in the body;
the pain appeared sharply and greatly intensified in a few hours;
the pain is spasmodic in nature - this may be the first signal of the onset of preterm labor.

All of these signs are a clear indication for an emergency visit to the hospital. Although even if the pain does not cause much concern, it is better to play it safe, the stake in this case is your health and the health of the child.

The first step should always be a consultation with a doctor; a non-specialist will not be able to distinguish “natural” pain from a sign of a dangerous disease.

But more often, pain simply indicates that the body needs a little support. Physical activity is one of the easiest ways to deal with pain, in moderation it is the key to a smooth pregnancy. But any exercise should be agreed with the doctor.

One of the best options is water aerobics, it is suitable for any level of training. Water allows you to relieve muscle tension around the spine and give the muscles the right load. Classes are held in small groups and will be a great way to relax and chat with friends in an interesting position.
Also a popular option is gymnastic ball exercises, there are options for classes for pregnant women. They are very useful for back problems and just as a general tonic.
Option for lovers of meditation exercises - yoga, there are several complexes for pregnant women. It is worth noting that classes should be conducted by a professional, otherwise there is a risk of harm to health, instead of benefit.

If you like the atmosphere of fitness, you can sign up for aerobics or gymnastics for pregnant women at any nearby gym. The main criterion should be the walking distance of the gym and the presence of a professional trainer.

To relieve pain, you can perform a few simple exercises:

Lie on your back, put your feet on a chair. This position relieves tension from the back, giving the muscles a rest, try to relax and breathe in the stomach;
From a prone position, stretch your palm clenched into a fist to the opposite leg, at the same time stretch your foot to your hand, then take a break, relax, repeat with the other leg and arm;
The familiar bicycle from a prone position also relieves tension and pain, do about 10-15 circles;
Do 5-10 repetitions of the slightly simplified cat exercise, doing it without tension. Get on all fours, inhale arch your back and lower your head, exhale - relax, return to the starting position;
Sit on the floor, bend one leg and bring it behind the other, turn your shoulders in the opposite direction, focusing on the outstretched arm, put the other on the knee of the bent leg. Exhale and try to relax in this position. Reverse position.

Worth it if possible change mattress to orthopedic or just on a harder one, it is useful to get an orthopedic hard pillow; you can easily find special pillows for pregnant women on the market. Proper rest is very important to health during pregnancy, so finding a comfortable sleeping position (a pillow under the knees and another one under the stomach helps a lot) is something that you should definitely spend some time on.

It is also necessary limit heavy lifting, if you need to pick something up, it is better not to bend down, but to stand on one knee. Watch your posture, trying to maintain the correct position of the back. Relieves pain and amateur massage, even a slight kneading of the muscles relieves tension and reduces pain.

Do not neglect the wearing of a bandage for pregnant women, it will help to properly distribute the load in the back.

Many painkillers are not applicable during pregnancy, folk remedies also have contraindications, so you should consult a doctor before using any medication. For the treatment of pain are prescribed:

Painkillers that are not contraindicated during pregnancy (Paracetamol, Analgin - in small doses, Nurofen, No-shpa and others).
Ointments for back pain. They should be used with caution, drugs containing poisons and other substances dangerous to the child are contraindicated during pregnancy. Often, Nurofen-gel and similar drugs are used to treat pain.
Professional massage is a good and safe remedy for pain relief.
Hot and cold compresses and baths promote blood flow to the "problem" areas of the spine and reduce pain.

The most important rule is not to endure pain. Even if all the friends and acquaintances who gave birth unanimously claim that this is normal. A pain signal is an alarm signal, a sign that the body is not fully coping with the increased load.

Even if the pain is not caused by a serious illness and treatment is not required, the doctor will prescribe measures to maintain the health of the spine, which will help make this bright period in life really enjoyable.

Surprisingly, one of the first signs of the onset of pregnancy is called lower back pain. Pain may be present throughout the entire period of bearing a baby, or may disappear in the second trimester, and these are not always signs of illness.

If you feel that your lower back hurts at the beginning of pregnancy, this is quite normal, and the cause of the pain is a restructuring of the body associated with a change in the hormonal background of a woman. However, pain also signals serious pathological conditions due to a malfunction of the immune system and, as a result, pregnant women are less protected from various infectious diseases.

Physiological causes

At the beginning of the first trimester of pregnancy, many women begin to worry about back pain. The reason for this phenomenon can be called a global restructuring of the body, which is necessary for bearing a baby.

Drawing pains in the lumbar region appear after the tenth week. At this time, the uterus, increasing in size, rises into the peritoneum. The ligaments that support it are stretched and somewhat transformed, which leads to discomfort in the lumbar region. The ligaments and discs that support the spine become loose and soft. The amount of the hormone progesterone increases. The center of gravity of the abdomen shifts, which also leads to pain. All of the above symptoms go away, starting from the twentieth week.

Pain in the early stages

Lower back pain in the first week of pregnancy - these are physiological changes in the female body. The hips and sacrum are in a relaxed state due to the effect of the hormone relaxin on them, which is produced in increased quantities during pregnancy. The ligaments of the womb are softened and provoke pain, which is natural and should not disturb the woman. With a little discomfort, there is no cause for alarm.
The increased production of female hormones provokes an increase in the mobility of the joints and intervertebral cartilage, which give rise to the formation of pain.
An increase in the load in the lumbar region also leads to pain. In the first trimester, due to the growth of the abdomen, the center of gravity shifts, and the woman, trying to maintain balance, spreads her shoulders more, stretches her neck forward, which leads to pain in the lower back.
With problems with the musculoskeletal system before pregnancy, a woman may develop complications or exacerbations and, as a result, pain in the lower back.

If the pain bothers you for a long time and in cases where it interferes with the woman's usual lifestyle, it is recommended to consult a doctor who will prescribe physiotherapy.

Causes of pain

Unfortunately, pain in women, when pulling the lower back in early pregnancy, are also symptoms of serious pathological processes. During the restructuring of the body, the immune system fails, and therefore immunity decreases. This temporary phenomenon is necessary so that the female body does not reject the fetus.

Incorrect posture of a woman leads to lumbar lordosis. Due to the swelling of the ligamentous apparatus, the ligaments and joints of the pelvis are stretched, and pain appears in the lumbar region.
Tumors in the lumbar region and lower back contribute to the spread of pain.
Inflammatory process in the lumbar muscles, or myositis, associated with hypothermia of the body.
Exacerbation of chronic diseases of the musculoskeletal system and other diseases that were diagnosed before pregnancy.

Lower back pain at 6 weeks pregnant, what to do?

Initially, you should consult a doctor so that he can determine the cause of the pain syndrome.

In the event of an exacerbation of osteochondrosis or inflammation of the bone endings, the following measures are indicated:

use a special bandage or corset for pregnant women as prescribed by the attending physician;
taking vitamin and mineral complexes;
if the physical condition allows, then daily physical exercises are recommended (if there is a threat of miscarriage, all loads are contraindicated);
static loads are contraindicated;
nutrition, with a sufficient content of vitamin D and calcium (a large amount of the latter is found in fermented milk and fish products, nuts);
give preference to orthopedic furniture;
change body position as often as possible;
exclude heavy lifting;
plan the day so that there is enough time for rest and recovery;
strengthen back muscles with the help of water procedures (swimming in the pool).

Compliance with these prescriptions will also be a good way to prevent pain in the lumbar region.

Osteochondrosis in the early stages

With an exacerbation of this disease, the lower back hurts in early pregnancy, as the intervertebral disc undergoes degenerative changes and protrudes. As a result, a radicular syndrome appears, which causes pain in the area of compression of the root, a failure in the conduction of an impulse from the tendons along the reflex arcs, and atrophic changes in the muscles.

In this case, the doctor should prescribe drug treatment, since it is strictly forbidden to be treated with drugs that were taken before pregnancy.

Pain with symphysis

The symptoms of this disease are manifested in the following: a woman in early pregnancy has a backache of the type of spasms, coordination of movements is disturbed, the muscles in the womb are greatly stretched. If treatment is not started on time, internal bleeding may develop. In such cases, the woman is hospitalized for planned treatment.

Pain caused by inflammation

In addition to pain in the lower back, edema, fever, severe headaches or migraines, cloudy urine, symptoms of pathological processes in the urinary or renal system, gallbladder appear. One of the common problems that pregnant women face is an inflammatory process in the kidneys. During pregnancy, the lower back hurts on the right or simultaneously on both sides? In such situations, consultation with a specialist and inpatient treatment is necessary.

Development of pyelonephritis

There are several versions of the occurrence of pyelonephritis in a pregnant woman. This disease poses a risk of infection of the fetus, in addition, the disease can provoke toxicosis at later stages of bearing a child, edema and early delivery, which poses a threat to a woman's life.

There is a failure in the mechanism of action of hormones, and they affect the ureters so that the urine from them again enters the renal pelvis. Urine stagnates, an infectious process develops, leading to pyelonephritis. An enlarged uterus or enlarged uterine veins exerts pressure on the ureters.

The presence in the body of a pregnant woman of pathogenic microorganisms with blood flow penetrate into the urinary system. During the development of the disease, a woman has severe lower back pain in early pregnancy.

Source of pain: infection

The infectious process can be in the tonsils, on the dermis, in teeth prone to caries or in internal organs. And also the reason for the disruption of the normal functioning of the kidneys can be neoplasms that may not appear for a long time.

Pain syndrome occurs when the kidney capsule is strained as a result of strong pressure of the tumor. The features of this process are:

the presence of erythrocytes, pus and mucus in the urine;
a blood test reveals an increased content of leukocytes, a large ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate);
general malaise, weakness, increased sweating.

Summing up, a weak, pulling pain in the lumbar region at the very beginning of a woman's interesting position is considered natural. In all other cases, this is a signal to seek medical help.

Threat of premature birth, miscarriage

Unbearably sore lower back in early pregnancy and lower abdomen, there are brownish discharge. The pain resembles contractions - this indicates the symptoms of a miscarriage. Urgent hospitalization indicated.

Transferred acute respiratory viral infection, trauma or stressful situation leads to the threat of miscarriage or premature birth. In these situations, a woman complains of vaginal discharge, pain in the abdomen and lower back.

The doctor diagnoses the threat of miscarriage at an early stage of pregnancy. Lower back pain due to contraction of the uterus. During contractions, she stretches the ligaments, deviating forward, and the fetus, falling lower, creates pressure on the nerve endings of the sacral region - this is the cause of the pain.

Ways to relieve pain

In general, lumbar pain is not a symptom of the disease and does not pose a danger to the unborn child and mother. If you pull the lower back in early pregnancy - this is physiological pain. You can reduce or remove it in the following ways:

Complete and balanced nutrition. Foods should be high in calcium. In some cases, women are additionally prescribed drugs or dietary supplements containing a high dose of calcium.
Moderate physical activity: walking for a duration of at least one hour, gymnastics in the morning, swimming in ponds or pools, water aerobics in groups for pregnant women. Such loads will not only relieve pain, but will also subsequently facilitate the birth of a baby and help to quickly restore the figure after the delivery process. You should start training from the very first days of the interesting position of a woman.
Yoga classes in combination with physical exercises will bring great benefits. Especially shown are exercises that stretch the spine.
Particular attention should be paid to correct posture to avoid curvature of the spine. Walk and sit with your back straight. Incorrect body position also provokes pain.
Massage will undoubtedly relieve tension and relax the muscles.
Avoid stress and overexertion.
Rest and sleep. It is advisable to purchase an orthopedic mattress so that the load on the spine is distributed evenly in a pregnant woman, and the sleep is strong and long (at least 7-8 hours). During the day, you should also give rest to the muscles of the back and sacrum - lie down for about thirty minutes in a relaxed state on a hard surface.

Pyelonephritis: lower back pain during pregnancy, what to do?

The disease during this period is accompanied, in addition to pain in the lower back, high fever and inflammation, which is confirmed by the results of laboratory tests. The doctor prescribes antibiotic therapy, which suppresses the infection and has minimal effect on the fetus.

If there is no edema, then it is recommended to increase the amount of fluid taken, but under the control of diuresis. During this period, do not take diuretic drugs and caffeinated drinks. Reception of a decoction of oats and fruit drink made from cranberries is shown, which has an antibacterial effect and increases diuresis.

The doctor prescribes outpatient treatment (at home) or, if necessary, hospitalizes in the urological department of the hospital.

Alternative medicine

The use of non-classical medicine methods (acupuncture, osteopathy, reflexology, homeopathy) is acceptable, but there are contraindications. In order to avoid negative consequences, consult your doctor.

Herbalists offer pain relief with a honey compress. Honey is preheated, and then applied to the lower back with a thin layer, on which polyethylene is placed, and the lower back is wrapped with a warm cloth. This procedure can be performed only in the absence of allergic reactions to bee products.

So, after reading the article, you got acquainted with the reasons why the lower back hurts in the early stages of the expectant mother. Pregnancy causes the spine to experience unusual loads, stretch the ligamentous apparatus of the lumbar and pelvic region, change the center of gravity and, as a result, the muscles overstrain, pain occurs in the lumbar region.

More serious causes of pain are much less common. In order to exclude them, do not forget to visit your doctor throughout your pregnancy.

According to statistics, 75% of women experience lower back pain during pregnancy, especially in the early stages. In most cases, this is caused by physiological changes in the body of the expectant mother, but such symptoms can also indicate a serious pathology.

So do not dismiss any painful sensations, but you should not panic either. The main thing is to know the causes of back pain and understand what needs to be done during this period and what cannot be done. Let's understand this topic.

Lower back pain during pregnancy - what does the nature of the pain indicate

You can understand the reason why the lower back hurts during pregnancy by the signs described below. You just need to listen more carefully to your body and understand exactly where the pain is localized and how exactly it manifests itself. Based on this, it will be possible to learn how to proceed.

Sharp cutting pain

If the pain syndrome manifests itself in the form of a sharp, acute pain in the lumbar region. This may indicate hidden diseases or disorders in the functioning of organs.

Main reasons:

Acute pyelonephritis, in which symptoms such as fever, weakness in the muscles, reddish tint of urine and predominant pain on the right or left will appear.
Urolithiasis disease when exacerbated, it also causes severe back pain. There may be bouts of vomiting and traces of blood in the urine.
Approaching childbirth characterized by sharp pains, as before menstruation.
Divergence of the sutures on the uterus leads to severe pain, in connection with which it can even happen fainting. The phenomenon is quite rare and manifests itself only in the event of an early pregnancy after the previous one, carried out by caesarean section.

There are many other pathologies in which cutting pain manifests itself, for example, ectopic pregnancy, problems with the gastrointestinal tract, worms and others.

But it is worth remembering that any sharp pain requires an immediate appeal to a specialist, no matter at what stage of pregnancy it appears.

Drawing pain in the lower back

One of the most common symptoms in women during pregnancy. It manifests itself as aching pain when walking or moving, and can be given to one or both legs.

The lower back hurts more often during late pregnancy, because during this period the spine is overloaded. However, if a woman had problems with her spine before pregnancy, for example, lumbar osteochondrosis, there will also be pulling sensations in her back.

If a symptom occurs at an early stage of pregnancy, a routine examination by a gynecologist and surgeon is recommended. To alleviate the condition of the pregnant woman, a lumbar massage or physiotherapy procedures are prescribed.

Shooting pain

If the pain is so sharp that it seems to shoot through the lower back, this indicates a neurological disease. In this case, the woman must be examined by a neurologist.

Reasons for concern may include:

pinched nerve;
hernia of the spine in the lumbar region;
sciatica;
narrowing of the spinal canal;
radiculitis;
osteochondrosis.

If it shoots in the lumbar region and gives off in any direction, this may indicate renal colic. Then you need to pay attention to other accompanying symptoms - fever, swelling of the legs, high blood pressure.

Why low back pain can occur - the main reasons

Lower back pain during pregnancy for various reasons. Most often, in the absence of cutting and stabbing pains, there is no cause for great concern. However, it is necessary to know what can cause this or that pain.

Common physiological causes that do not threaten the health and development of the child include:

load that causes a shift in the point of gravity of the back;
a sharp increase in the weight of a woman;
decreased muscle tone due to hormonal failure;
wrong way of life;
lack of vitamins in the diet.

It is important to consider at what stage of pregnancy the back hurts in the lumbar region, as well as how the gestation process goes.

Some women during pregnancy may experience discharge similar to menstruation. For others, nothing happens every month during this period of the cycle, but discomfort in the lower back may be present, as it was even before the delay in menstruation and conception.

In the early stages

If the lower back hurts in early pregnancy, it is most likely caused by the structural features of the hip bone. The body of the future woman in labor is rebuilt to make it easier for the baby to be born.

Therefore, the pelvic bones under the influence of the hormones progesterone and relaxin diverge due to softening of the ligaments. This process can cause discomfort and a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen and back.

In the second trimester, these symptoms may indicate an uneven distribution of the load on the spine. This happens due to physiological changes that entail such consequences as an increase in pressure on the intestines and the genitourinary system.

An increase in the fetus leads to displacement of organs and deflection of the spine, which causes pain. It is even visually noticeable how a woman’s figure changes in position - her stomach becomes rounded, and the back in the lower back shifts towards the stomach.

At a later date

If in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy, the lower back hurts far from everyone, then in the last months of gestation, the back aches in almost every future woman in labor. And there are more than enough reasons for this.

In the first place is the rapid increase in the mass of the child. It is in the third trimester that the fetus accumulates adipose and muscle tissue, approaching the body weight required at birth (about 3 kg).

The second factor is hypermobility of the hip joints due to increased hormonal influence. The bones of the small pelvis diverge more and more, which causes discomfort in the lower back.

Do not forget about the excessive load on the internal organs, which at this time work at the limit. Pregnancy has a particularly strong effect on the genitourinary system, leading to swelling and weight gain in women due to water retention in the body. And this, in turn, further increases the load on the spine.

Are such pains dangerous - the opinions of doctors

Lower back pain in early pregnancy signals possible violations of the current pregnancy. Therefore, it is necessary to immediately contact a specialist for examination and timely detection of pathologies.

Sharp pains are of particular danger, since they are most often a sign of a woman's health disorder. And in order to avoid complications, you should definitely undergo a course of treatment prescribed by your doctor.

If the lower back hurts and the lower abdomen aches, and at the same time the temperature increases or bloody discharge from the vagina is observed, this is also a good reason to go to the doctor.

What not to do with back pain

Self-medication is strictly contraindicated, since some signs may indicate quite serious health problems. And due to ignorance, you can only harm yourself or your baby even more.

It is dangerous to lift weights during this period so as not to provoke a miscarriage. The maximum weight of objects lifted during this period should not exceed 3 kg.

If the pain is cutting or shooting, sudden movements should be avoided.

Do not use pain relievers without a doctor's prescription, as this can lead to misdiagnosis and adversely affect the child's development.

Methods for the treatment of pain syndrome

Therapeutic treatment is prescribed only after a full examination and identification of the causes. However, do not underestimate mild aching pains, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy, and even more so self-medicate, as this can be harmful to both the woman and the child.

Standard methods of treatment are used in the event of pain in the lower back:

With inflammation of the bladder, kidneys and urinary system, medication is prescribed, based on the elimination of the underlying disease.
Problems with the spine are solved by reducing the load on the back and warming up with ointments and a heating pad.
Spasmodic pains are relieved by a special massage for pregnant women.
Various physical exercises help with pain in the lumbar region, as they strengthen the muscles of the back.
In the last stages, the doctor may prescribe the wearing of a bandage, which will significantly reduce the load on the lumbar region, especially in the presence of a hernia or other pathologies of the spine.

To strengthen the bones, it will not hurt to take calcium. Often, doctors recommend starting it at the stage of family replenishment planning. But you shouldn't go overboard with it either.

The lower back can start to hurt, both in early pregnancy and later. Can these manifestations be prevented?

Experts say that if you prepare in advance for such discomfort, then its manifestation will be much less, or even bypass you. To do this, you only need to carry out regular preventive measures aimed at strengthening the muscles and improving the functioning of the cardiovascular and skeletal systems.

Tip 1: Use a stabilizing brace or corset

Wearing a special supporting corset is recommended from the second trimester (14 weeks of the gestational period).

The bandage is made in the form of a wide belt, which helps to evenly distribute the load throughout the lower abdomen and back. The corset acts as a fixator of the abdomen, and greatly facilitates movement.

Tip 2. Do your daily gymnastics

Passive physical activity not only helps to strengthen muscles, but also can relieve tension and relieve pain.

This is due to the fact that in the process of bearing a child, some muscles become enslaved or stretched, and gymnastics helps to develop these muscle groups and thereby increase blood flow to the necessary organs. From sports training, yoga, fitness, gymnastics for pregnant women are suitable.

If the work is sedentary, then it is very important to do some warm-up exercises every hour or go for a walk and breathe fresh air. Be sure to take care of comfortable furniture in order to properly adjust the height and inclination of the back of the chair. This will reduce the load on the lower back and the entire spine.

Tip 3. Choose the right mattress for sleeping

If the lower back hurts after sleeping, a pregnant woman should take care of changing the mattress. A special pillow for pregnant women can also help to better relax your back during sleep.

It is necessary to sleep lying on one side so that the stomach does not press on the internal organs. A properly selected sleeping set will ensure complete relaxation of all muscles, so that the body will be rested in the morning.

Do not forget about daytime rest, which helps to unload the spine. This is especially true when the back starts to hurt.

An important role not only in the formation and growth of the fetus, but also the health of the mother plays a proper diet.

A full supply of all the necessary vitamins and nutrients, especially calcium, contributes to the synthesis of a sufficient amount of hormones and strengthens bones. And for a good assimilation of all microelements, walks in the fresh air are useful.

Going to bed is on time, as the best time to rest is from 21:00 to midnight. Following the regime, the morning rise will not be difficult.

How else can you ease back pain? Of course, water procedures and swimming. Perfectly strengthens the muscles, and at the same time reduces the pressure created by the spine and all internal organs on the lumbar region.

Back pain - doctor's comment:

Conclusion

The process of bearing a child is very complicated, and the expectant mother is obliged to constantly monitor the state of her body in order to provide him with support in time.

Therefore, any symptoms, even the most insignificant, should be examined by a specialist. Let it be better a false alarm than a missed moment in time to identify a disease that is dangerous for you or your baby.

Pregnancy is a special period, and a special burden on the body. Since the work of all systems is being rebuilt, and they are forced to function 2 times more, failures in their activities are not ruled out. It is not at all surprising that women are interested in why the lower back hurts during pregnancy.

Pain is different. It is rarely localized in the same place, has a different intensity and character. Moreover, discomfort can be either pathological or a variant of the norm.

The first trimester of pregnancy is the most crucial period during which all organs are laid in the unborn baby. In addition, it is during this period that all changes occur in the female body. During the first 3 months, the lower back hurts due to such reasons:

Active production of hormones. In order for the pregnancy to continue, progesterone begins to be produced at week 9. Body weight becomes larger, and muscles are slightly relaxed. Normal physiological pain is considered up to 10 weeks. She is not very strong, has a pulling character. If brown discharge is present, but becomes more pronounced, this indicates a threat of pregnancy loss.
Pathology of the kidneys. In the early stages, lower back pain as a symptom of pyelonephritis or other diseases is not always considered. Most often, the peak of the development of kidney pathology becomes 22-24 weeks. But even at the beginning of pregnancy, the defeat of the excretory system is accompanied by discomfort, changes in temperature and the nature of the urine.

Neurologist Vasily Generalov will talk about the causes of the disease and how to eliminate pain in pregnant women:

Pregnancy outside the uterus (ectopic). Lower back pain will be one-sided, and it will give to the rectum. In addition, a woman has discharge mixed with blood. If a rupture of the fallopian tube occurs, the pain becomes very severe, so the patient often loses consciousness.
Threats of miscarriage.
Development of the inflammatory process in the pancreas. Here, lower back pain during pregnancy is aching or stabbing. Additionally, the woman develops diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and her general condition worsens.
Frozen pregnancy. In the early stages, this phenomenon is often diagnosed. Despite the fact that more often the pathology occurs without symptoms, the lower back may ache slightly.

Often, pain can be identified as a sign of pregnancy. That is, it appears almost immediately, as soon as there is a delay in menstruation. At the same time, the sensations are aching or pulling, characterized by low intensity. There is discomfort due to too rapid growth of the uterus, to the wall of which the embryo has already attached. There is a tension of the ligaments of the uterus, so the pain appears.

Why does pain appear in the second trimester?

Since there is an increasing load on the spine, lower back pain during pregnancy up to 20 weeks is considered normal. Usually it has a low intensity, after prolonged standing or physical activity it can intensify, it can appear if the woman maintains an uncomfortable posture. However, if the back hurts badly, then the woman needs to urgently consult a doctor. The second trimester of pregnancy may be accompanied by such diseases:

neurological pathologies. Among them are intervertebral hernia, osteochondrosis, scoliosis. Regardless of the periods of pregnancy, the load on the spine increases in a woman. And since he is already affected by the pathology, the pain sensations become more pronounced.
Pyelonephritis. In this case, not only appears, but also numerous edema, fever.
Threat of interruption. It persists in the second trimester. The woman feels the tension of the uterine muscles, her sacrum ache.

Increased fetal pressure on the spine in trimesters

Urolithiasis disease. The lower back during pregnancy with such a pathology hurts very much, blood impurities appear in the urine, and going to the toilet becomes problematic.
Excessive relaxation of the pubic joint.
Wrong shoes.
Passive lifestyle.

Physiological lower back pain during pregnancy does not pose a danger to the body of a woman or her unborn baby. However, do not forget that various pathological processes can provoke discomfort. Therefore, careful monitoring of your own health can save you from serious problems.

Why does pain appear in late pregnancy?

So, the third trimester is the apogee of pregnancy. Here the load on the lumbar region is maximum. However, often at this time a woman may feel a pulling, aching or sharp pain due to such pathologies:

Pyelonephritis.
Myositis (inflammation of the uterine muscles). Such a disease appears due to a long stay of a pregnant woman in the cold. The pain syndrome here often depends on what position the woman has taken. Feelings are characterized by low intensity.
Training bouts. During pregnancy, the lower back hurts at a later date due to the fact that the body begins to prepare for childbirth. This process begins at 38 weeks. They do not pose a risk to the mother or fetus. However, if the interval between them is reduced, this is a sign of premature birth (at the 35th week).

Pancreatitis. In this case, not only the lower back will hurt, but also the stomach. There is nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. There is also bloating.
Frozen pregnancy. The woman in this case ceases to feel the movement of the fetus. If she stays in this state for too long, then signs of intoxication of the body appear. Pregnancy can stop for various reasons.
The threat of premature birth. There will be or, conversely, the left.

A woman should be especially careful in the later stages. At any moment she may go into labor, so she must be collected. Timely treatment to the hospital will facilitate the process of the birth of the baby.

Other causes of discomfort

In addition to the already indicated diseases, during the bearing of a baby, other pathological conditions can also remind of themselves:

GI ulcer. Especially often the back will hurt if the damage is on the back wall of the duodenum.
Appendicitis.
Salpingoophoritis.
Childbirth (after 39 weeks).
A rupture of the seam, if the woman's previous pregnancy was resolved by caesarean section.
Renal colic.

In the video, nephrologist Yulia Perevezentseva will talk about kidney disease during pregnancy:

Narrowing of the spinal canal (the buttock will also hurt here).
Radiculitis.
Bechterew's disease.
Cystoma or inflammation of the uterine appendages.

Regardless of whether the lower back hurts during pregnancy in the second trimester, at an earlier or later date, a visit to the doctor is a must. It can prevent a pathological condition that threatens the patient and her baby.

When should you call a doctor?

There are cases in which calling an ambulance can literally save a life. You need to see a doctor immediately if:

Bloody discharge began to appear from the vagina, especially of a dark color.
The back continues to hurt after a short rest or during it.
Unpleasant sensations spread to the limbs.

The pathological condition is accompanied by a change in body temperature.
There is severe pain in the abdomen.

Treatment cannot be delayed. Any pathological condition endangers 2 lives at once.

How to eliminate pain?

Naturally, if the lower back hurts during pregnancy, then it cannot be tolerated. But you should not immediately use medications, since most of them are prohibited for a woman in position. It is important to see a doctor on time. He will prescribe the appropriate therapy. If a woman has to take medications, then they can be as follows:

Pain reliever: Ibuprofen.
Preparations that strengthen the immune system and saturate the woman's body with useful substances: vitamin D, calcium.
Sedatives: "Corvalol", valerian (if allowed by the doctor).

A strip of ibuprofen ointment 5-10 cm long is applied to the affected area and carefully rubbed with light movements until completely absorbed 3-4 times a day for 2-3 weeks. The average cost in pharmacies is 35 rubles

Medicine to eliminate uterine tone: "No-shpa", "Papaverine".
Hormonal preparations: "Dufaston", "Utrozhestan". These medicines help prevent the risk of miscarriage.

Why during pregnancy it hurts in the back is already clear. But it is possible to fight this condition not only with the help of drugs. The following activities can help:

Gentle massage to relieve pain.
We need to try to move more.
Shoes should be on a small steady heel.
It is better to sleep on an orthopedic mattress.
You should also wear a prenatal bandage at all times.
You need to rest periodically.

Naturally, if there is a stabbing pain or a sharp pain syndrome in the lumbar region on the left or right, then you should definitely consult a doctor. Remedial gymnastics, which includes the following exercises, can reduce discomfort:

Lying on your back, you need to keep your legs on a chair and breathe with your stomach.
"Bike".
Standing on all fours, you need to carefully bend your back up and down.

A set of exercises for pregnant women with back pain will be shown by a doctor, fitness instructor Kristina Shalimova:

If a pregnant woman has lower back pain, then the exercises presented must be done daily.

How to remove pain with folk remedies?

If a woman does not know what to do, if the beginning, you need to talk to your doctor. If the patient does not want to take medications, she can use folk remedies. But this should be done carefully, as some herbs can harm. So, if the doctor has allowed, then you can use the following recipes:

It is necessary to chop the horseradish with a fine grater and mix it with the same amount of sour cream. The sore part of the lower back should be rubbed with these products, covered with a napkin and tied with a scarf.
Dry scalded burdock leaves can be fixed on the back. They are also good at dealing with pain.

Burdock flowers and leaves

Naturally, if a woman’s lower back hurts during pregnancy, you need to reconsider your diet. Food should be rich in calcium, magnesium and other useful substances, vitamins. For example, the menu should include milk, fish, nuts and greens.

To enrich the body with calcium, you can use the crushed shell of a boiled chicken egg. It is required to eat the powder 1 time per day in a small amount (at the tip of a small spoon). You also need to eat wholemeal bread, dates and prunes, pumpkin seeds, seaweed, parsley and dill, bananas, and dried apricots.

Prevention of a pathological condition

If why pregnant women have back pain in the lumbar region is already known, then you need to know how to avoid this condition. For example, the expectant mother is advised to follow the following advice from doctors:

It is necessary to eliminate all pathologies even before planning conception.
Every day, the body should experience feasible physical activity, because they strengthen the muscular corset of the abdomen and spine.
It is important to keep track of your own menu all the time.

It is imperative to choose the right wardrobe. You should not buy tight shoes with high heels.
If a pregnant woman has a sedentary job, then every hour she should warm up.
It is better to buy an orthopedic mattress. It will prevent diseases of the spine.
Expectant mother should not lift heavy objects.

The period of pregnancy is a magical time that requires special care and good physical fitness from a woman. Any discomfort that occurs in the mother's body is reflected in the baby. Any one needs to be quickly eliminated, therefore it is not recommended to postpone the time of going to the doctor and try to overcome the pathological condition on your own. Be healthy!

Maria Sokolova

Reading time: 11 minutes

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Even the happiest and most long-awaited pregnancy is overshadowed by back pain. Sometimes - immediately in the early stages, sometimes - closer to childbirth, and someone at all - the entire period. It should be noted that almost all mothers (74% according to statistics) complain of such pains, including those who are completely healthy and do not have problems with the spine.

What is the reason, and how can you help yourself?

The nature and main causes of back pain during early and late pregnancy

Unfortunately, it is impossible to say unequivocally why the back hurts. There can be many reasons for the occurrence - both the most primitive (long term, load on the lower back), and those indicating serious health problems.

It is important to understand the nature of the pain, and not to miss the moment when you need to see a doctor.

"Pulling in the lower back." The uterus begins its active growth around the 16th week of pregnancy. Due to the increase, compression of the nerve endings, as well as the blood vessels surrounding the spine, occurs, as a result of which this pulling pain occurs in the very bottom of the back.
Irregular and non-intense "aching" in the lower back. Pain of this nature, subsiding after a quiet rest in the "lying" position, usually occurs after the 20th week. The reason is simple - a shift in the center of gravity in an enlarged tummy. The back in the lumbar region has to bend more and more, and as a result, the load is unevenly distributed to the spine. The lion's share of the load is taken by the lumbar region.
Prolonged and frequent (permanent) pain, localized in the sacrum. They can appear even at night, dooming the expectant mother to insomnia, and rest simply does not give any relief. Under the influence of the hormone relaxin, the pubic symphysis is stretched and the joints of the bones of the small / pelvis are softened - the body is preparing for an early birth. That is, the pelvis "diverges" that at the right time to freely let the baby into the light. Immediately before childbirth, this hormone "helps" in opening the cervix.
Pain that begins after the 37th week with a certain frequency. Don't be scared - it is. In addition, the pressure of the baby's head on the mother's spine also falls on the 3rd trimester.
Exacerbation of pain, if there were already certain problems with the spine. For example, with bruises, with injuries, or with chronic diseases of the musculoskeletal system. It will also make itself felt with pain and flat feet if the expectant mother continues to run in high heels or in other shoes not intended to be worn during pregnancy.
Shooting in the back. Similar, more often unilateral and sudden, similar to "electric shock" pains can occur with osteochondrosis, with herniated intervertebral discs and sciatica, with scoliosis and other diseases. May be accompanied by leg numbness or a tingling sensation. The pain subsides when holding the breath or stopping the movement with the body tilted forward.
Unilateral back pain. In this case, there may be problems with the kidneys (comorbidities / symptoms - colic, cloudy urine, sharp pain when urinating) or pinching of the nerve / root of the spinal cord. The 1st diagnosis is checked with the help of ultrasound and tests, the 2nd - with the help of MRI.
Pain in the small of the back, with bloody discharge and drawing in the lower abdomen. These signs (note - in the 1st trimester) require urgent medical attention and most often speak of a threatened miscarriage. As for the 3rd trimester, such symptoms usually indicate the opening of the uterine os.
Back pain can also be noted in case of uterine tone. Naturally, you need to contact a gynecologist and undergo an ultrasound.

Remember, a consultation with a doctor is required if, in addition to back pain, you notice the following symptoms:

Pain that resembles contractions.
Pain when urinating.
Cloudy or foamy urine.
Feeling of increased tone of the uterus (approx. - the tummy “swells up and becomes hard like a ball”, there is a strong tension in the abdomen).
Bloody issues.
Minor/significant rise in temperature.

What should a pregnant woman do if her back hurts - how to relieve back pain?

With prolonged and severe pain with additional symptoms, of course, you should contact your gynecologist.

If the expectant mother is worried about the nature of the pain, you should not wait for improvement by self-medicating, a timely visit to the doctor will save her and the unborn baby from danger.

In the absence of alarming symptoms, the pain can be removed independently using the following means, rules and methods:

Pillow for pregnant women. If the pain is caused by the usual physiological changes characteristic of expectant mothers, such a pillow will help in normalizing sleep, support the mother's tummy and partially unload the back, taking on its tension. Mom can choose any pillow shape, if necessary - in the form of a boomerang, just a roller, U-shaped, in the shape of the letter “C”, “G”, “U”, etc. Note: a pillow in the shape of “C” after childbirth can be use as a temporary arena, and the roller is an excellent device for eliminating leg fatigue.
. It may be useful after the 20th week. The purpose is to support the tummy and relieve the load from the spine. True, it is not recommended to wear it for more than 4 hours, and, of course, you cannot sleep in it.
Swimming pool, yoga, water aerobics, etc. In general, such restorative procedures for the expectant mother are extremely useful. Especially the pool. In the absence of contraindications, do not waste time - help your body in such a difficult period.
Light massage. Do not rush to the first "manualist" that comes across. Remember that massage during this period, in the absence of proper qualifications from the "specialist", can significantly harm both mother and her baby. But a light massage from a professional with relevant experience is welcome. It will help to relax the muscles of the back and facilitate the general condition.
Pose, posture. Be sure to pay attention to how and where you sit most of the time. You can not overload the spine. A chair (chair) should be comfortable with an optimal height to support the back, and a stand will not interfere with the legs (by the way, it will come in handy later for feeding the baby). Crossing your legs is also not recommended. Also change your posture more often and remember to take breaks for light stretching or walking.
Fitball. Use the ball to unload the muscles of the back through the "unstable support". You should sit on the ball with your legs slightly apart (choose a comfortable position!). then turn the body left / right 5-6 times. Another useful exercise is rolling from a sitting position to a supine position. With it, the spine is stretched, the back is arched, and the back muscles are relaxed. Naturally, the exercise should be performed only with the help and under the control of the spouse.
No weights! Ask your spouse and relatives, if you need something to lift, move, convey. In case you had to lift something yourself, get down on one knee with a straight back, without slouching, and lift the thing with the strength of your legs, and not an already overloaded back.
Watch your nutrition. Lack of calcium (its "washout" during pregnancy) and minerals, as you know, can also be reflected in pain. Now, more than ever, a balanced and proper diet is needed.
Choose the right footwear. Set aside hairpins, high heels, tight ballet flats for a while in the closet. Now you need shoes with a small heel and (highly recommended!) With orthopedic insoles that reduce the load on the spine and protect the back from the development of osteochondrosis, etc.
Orthopedic mattress. It is also an extremely useful thing to restore strength during the night and during daytime rest. Do not spare money on such a mattress, it will greatly simplify your life. Pick up an orthopedic pillow for him.
Physical exercises. Discuss with your doctor what exercises will help relieve stress from your back and strengthen your general condition. One of the most popular exercises during this period is the "kitty" with the arch of the back in the "on all fours" position. Regularly performing this exercise, you will make it easier for yourself and the process of childbirth.
Warm bath and contrast shower in the lumbar region. Do not overdo it with a contrast shower, and the bath water should be exceptionally warm.

Treatment of back pain in pregnant women - what can a doctor prescribe?

First of all, if you suspect the development of any disease (and not with the pains characteristic of pregnancy), they seek advice from gynecologist and neurologist, orthopedist and surgeon, as well as a nephrologist .

According to the results of the examination, treatment is prescribed

With pain caused by renal spasms, no-shpu can be prescribed. Most drugs with the function of eliminating spasms and pain, as you know, are prohibited during pregnancy. The doctor prescribes treatment based on the general picture of the disease and, of course, the possible harm to the fetus.
Behind the lumbar pain with the presence of spotting, there may be a threat of miscarriage. In this case, hospitalization, complete rest and bed rest are usually indicated. Of the drugs, as a rule, Magnesia, Duphaston or Utrozhestan are prescribed. , and other means to reduce the tone of the uterus and maintain pregnancy.
For pain associated with disorders of the musculoskeletal system, Menovazin may be prescribed. For example, in the form of an ointment or solution. This drug is considered very effective in case of pinched lumbar nerve. Note: warming ointments during pregnancy are prohibited! They can lead to miscarriage.

So that the back does not hurt during pregnancy - methods for preventing pain

To reduce the risk of pain and protect your body from overload, you need to take care of yourself in such a difficult period for a woman and, of course, follow certain rules:

The growing uterus tends to compress the ureters, resulting in stagnation of urine, and then there is a risk of developing pyeloectasia and, as a result, pyelonephritis. Therefore, it is recommended after the 20th week, stand on all fours twice a day to improve urine flow.
Starting at 3-4 months old, get in the habit of lying down (with a special pillow under the tummy) with bent knees on the left side. That is, in the fetal position. As for the pose of the star (on the back), forget about it until the very birth. In extreme cases - reclining and on a hard surface.
Don't jump out of bed. Get up by rolling. When picking up something from the floor, first bend your knees. You can not pick up things from the floor, just leaning forward.
Eliminate all factors that provoke back pain and increase the load on the spine : do not lift heavy things, sleep in a comfortable bed, wear the right shoes, eat the right foods, sit on chairs with backs, etc.
Use a prenatal bandage and.
If you continue to work, then take a fabric roller with you (under the lower back) and a small stool under the feet.
Watch the work of the kidneys. At the 1st suspicion of problems in the genitourinary system, consult a doctor.
Rest more often with your legs up - on a pillow, for example.

And stay away from negativity! Get rid of all the negativity in your life. The expectant mother should enjoy every day.

The more positive you are, the easier the pregnancy will be.

The site site warns: the information is provided for informational purposes only, and is not a medical recommendation. In no case do not self-medicate! If you have health problems, consult your doctor!