There are several sources of back pain in late pregnancy - 1. Your uterus has round ligaments that are attached to the back of your pelvis. With the weight of your baby getting heavier, the uterus is pulling forward and making the ligaments pull tight, creating back pain. 2. You may also experience pressure on one of the largest nerves called the sciatic nerve, which is low in the pelvis and runs down the front and back of your leg. When the baby drops, pressure is put on this nerve and can cause low back, groin, and leg pain. 3. During the later part of pregnancy, you produce a hormone called relaxin, which "relaxes" the joints in the pelvis to allow more room for the baby, and the loose joints decrease the amount of support in the surrounding ligaments/tissues. This can be another source of back pain. 4. Poor posture in late pregnancy is a common cause of back pain. Check your center of gravity and make sure you are not arching your back. 5. Indeed, labor can cause a dull back ache and you may notice rythmic onset of pain, which could be contractions. 6. Finally, your baby's head may have dropped and could be in a posterior position (sunny side up) and the back of his/her head is pushing against your sacrum. Things that have helped others: 1. Hands and Knees - In a hands and knees position, gently tuck your hips and shoulders under your body as you arch your back, hold for the count of four, and return to a straight back (do not let your spine drop down). 2. Rice sock - fill tube sock with uncooked rice and tie a knot. Microwave for two minutes and place on back. 3. Submerse in water - relieves tension on back 4. Counter-pressure - While on hands/knees, have partner push in the area just above the "crack" (an upside down triangle area) with pressure as per your directions. 5. Labor - If you suspect labor, call your provider 6. Birth Ball - Get an exercise ball to sit on instead of a chair (I'm sitting on one right now!) They really relieve a lot of pressure. 7. Posture - Make sure you maintain a posture of leaning forward while sitting. Do not slouch back into a sofa or car seat. Leaning forward will help prevent a posterior baby. |
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Cascade Christian Childbirth Association
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Disclaimer The suggestions contained in this website are not intended to replace medical advice. If you feel you are experiencing a situation that requires medical attention, contact your care provider. |
