This pain deserves your attention!

This deep-felt pain during pregnancy, occurring below the waistline, affects an estimated 50 to 80 percent of pregnant women worldwide.

Pregnancy causes the mother to gain weight as her center of gravity shifts, and her hormones relax the joints in her pelvis. Back pain accompanies these changes most of the time. The pain that begins as mild may become acute or even chronic. Either way, it can affect the pregnant women’s ability to carry out their ordinary course of work during the pregnancy period. Back pain can begin as early as the eighth week of pregnancy and go beyond pregnancy.

Lower Back Pain, also called Lumbar Back Pain (LBP), occurs in the lumbar vertebrae in the lower back and is one of the most common types of pain pregnant women experience. Another kind is Posterior Pelvic Pain (PPP) which is felt in the back of the Pelvis. A third type is Sciatica, a pain that shoots rapidly from the buttocks to the leg downwards, ending in the foot. This pain is rare and occurs in only one percent of pregnant women. The pain is caused by the pressure exerted by the uterus on the sciatic nerve.

Lower Back Pain is considered normal during pregnancy. Only around 50 percent of women consult a doctor to assess their condition.

Causes of Back Pain during Pregnancy:

1.  Weight Gain: One of the most common causes of back pain during pregnancy is weight gain. As the baby grows, the mother’s center of gravity shifts forward, putting additional pressure on the lower back.

2.  Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, the body produces a hormone called relaxin, which helps to soften and loosen the ligaments and joints in preparation for childbirth. This can cause the joints in the pelvis and lower back to become more mobile, resulting in pain and discomfort.

3.  Postural Changes: As the baby grows, the mother’s posture changes to accommodate the additional weight. This can cause the lower back to arch more than usual, leading to back pain.

Ways to Manage Back Pain During Pregnancy:

1. Exercise: Regular exercise can help strengthen the muscles supporting the back and improve posture. Low-impact activities, such as walking and swimming, can be particularly effective.
   
2. Good Posture: Practicing good posture can help to reduce back pain during pregnancy. This involves sitting up straight, keeping the shoulders relaxed, and avoiding crossing the legs.
   
3. Supportive Shoes: Wearing supportive shoes with a low heel can help to reduce pressure on the lower back.
   
4. Sleeping Position: Sleeping on the side with a pillow between the knees can help to reduce back pain during pregnancy. Avoid sleeping on the back, as this can put additional pressure on the lower back.
   
5. Massage: A prenatal massage can help relieve muscle tension and reduce back pain. Be sure to choose a massage therapist experienced in working with pregnant women.
   
6. Consult with a healthcare provider: Back pain during pregnancy may indicate a more serious condition, such as preterm labour or preeclampsia. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms.

Pain Management in Ayurveda:

Managing back pain during pregnancy can be challenging, but Ayurveda offers several natural remedies that can help to reduce pain and promote overall wellness.

Here are some Ayurvedic tips for managing back pain during pregnancy:

1. Practice Yoga: Yoga is a gentle exercise that can help to reduce back pain during pregnancy. Prenatal yoga classes can be tailored to the specific needs of pregnant women and can help stretch and strengthen the back muscles. To read about Janika’s Yoga Therapy services, click here.
   
2. Use Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to the back can help to reduce pain and inflammation. You can use a hot water bottle, a warm towel, or a heating pad to apply heat to the affected area.
   
3. Massage Therapy: Ayurvedic massage therapy involves using warm herbal oils to massage the body. This can help to reduce pain and inflammation, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.
   
4. Herbal Remedies: Ayurvedic practitioners often use herbal remedies to manage pain. Some of the most commonly used herbs for pain include ginger and turmeric. These herbs have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

It is important to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before using any natural remedies for back pain during pregnancy. They can help develop an individualized treatment plan that considers your specific needs and health concerns. Additionally, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider about any back pain during pregnancy to rule out any serious conditions that may require medical attention. To learn more about how to find relief for back pain during pregnancy, click here.

Danger Signs to be Aware of:

While back pain during pregnancy is common and often manageable, there are particular danger signs to be aware of. If you experience any of the following symptoms along with back pain, it is important to seek medical attention right away:

1. Severe Pain: Severe, constant, or worsening back pain that does not improve with rest could be a sign of a serious condition. This may include a ruptured disc or preterm labour.
   
2. Numbness or Tingling: Experiencing numbness or tingling in the legs or feet and back pain could be a sign of nerve compression. This may require immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage.
   
3. Abdominal Pain: If you experience back pain accompanied by abdominal pain or cramping, it could be a sign of preterm labour, placental abruption, or other serious conditions.
   
4. Vaginal Bleeding: Back pain accompanied by vaginal bleeding could signify a miscarriage or other conditions.
   
5. Headaches or Vision Changes: Back pain accompanied by severe headaches or changes in vision could be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.

Seek medical attention immediately to ensure the health and safety of both you and your baby in case of any of these danger signs. Read to know the beautiful experiences of mothers who availed Janika’s finest care.

Remember to listen to your body, as we always say. Give it the rest it deserves while you enjoy the benefits of good pregnancy care from Janika Ayurveda.