It is very common to get backache or back pain during pregnancy, especially in the early stages. During pregnancy, the ligaments in your body naturally become softer and stretch to prepare you for labour. This can put a strain on the joints of your lower back and pelvis, which can cause back pain. Try these tips: You can take paracetamol to ease back pain while you are pregnant, unless your GP or midwife says not to. Always follow the instructions on the packet. If your backache is very painful, talk to your GP or midwife. They may be able to refer you to an
obstetric physiotherapist at your hospital, who can give you advice and may suggest some helpful exercises.Avoiding and easing back pain in pregnancy
When to get help for back pain in pregnancy
Non-urgent advice: Contact your GP or midwife urgently if:
You have back pain and you:
- are in your second or third trimester – this could be a sign of early labour
- also have a fever, bleeding from your vagina or pain when you pee
- have pain in one or more of your sides (under your ribs)
Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if:
You have back pain and:
- you lose feeling in one or both of your legs, your bum, or your genitals
Exercises to ease back pain in pregnancy
This gentle exercise helps to strengthen stomach (abdominal) muscles, which can ease back pain in pregnancy:
1) Start on all fours with knees under hips, hands under shoulders, fingers facing forwards and stomach muscles lifted to keep your back straight.
2) Pull in your stomach muscles and raise your back up towards the ceiling, letting your head and bum relax downwards gently – do not let your elbows lock and only move your back as far as you comfortably can.
3) Hold for a few seconds then slowly return to the box position – take care not to hollow your back, it should always return to a straight, neutral position.
4) Do this slowly and rhythmically 10 times, making your muscles work hard and moving your back carefully.
Doing prenatal yoga or aquanatal classes (gentle exercise classes in water) with a qualified instructor can also help build your muscles to better support your back. Ask at your local leisure centre.