What Causes Back Pain in Females?

Back Pain in Females: Common Causes and Prevention Tips

Women are prone to chronic back pain due to certain health problems such as hormonal changes, menopause, pregnancy, bone density loss, etc. Constantly recurring back pains can impact daily activities, mobility and overall well-being.

Here are some common causes of back pain in females and how you can prevent them:

Hormonal Changes

Many women rarely realise that hormonal changes significantly affect their backs. As they age, especially during menopause, lower estrogen levels weaken their bones. This condition is called osteoporosis. It makes bones more fragile and prone to breaks. This can cause severe back pain.

Prevention:  While you can not control your estrogen levels, you can definitely opt for certain preventive measures. Be sure to include calcium- and vitamin D-rich food in your diet or take supplements. These nutrients are vital for bone health. You can also schedule regular bone density tests to identify early bone health issues.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a joyful journey, but it also brings many changes to a woman's body. As the baby grows, the gravitational pressure on the belly creates strain on the lower back. Additionally, the growing uterus stretches the abdominal muscles that support the back, making the muscles more stringent.

Prevention:  Many women wear pregnancy belts to distribute weight and relieve back pressure. Physicians also suggest doing gentle stretching and light exercises to strengthen the core and reduce pain. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise during pregnancy.

Posture and Lifestyle

Sometimes, back pain relates to how you move during your day. Poor posture, long periods of sitting, and incorrect lifting of heavy items can cause back pain. Continuous heavy lifting or a sudden uncomfortable movement can strain spinal ligaments and back muscles, leading to painful muscle spasms.

Prevention:  A great posture comes from a great setting. Set up your kitchen and workspace efficiently to support your back. It is also suggested that proper lifting techniques be employed. For example, when lifting something from the ground, bend your knees, not your back.

Gynaecological Conditions

Certain gynaecological issues can result in back pain. Conditions like endometriosis and fibroids can cause lower back discomfort. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the

uterine lining grows outside the uterus, while fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus.

What Causes Lower Back Pain in Females?

Lower back pain can have many causes and affects people of any gender. However, there are several lower back pain-related health issues that women are more susceptible to developing than men. It is mainly linked to factors like the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or endometriosis. Here is a detailed list of all the conditions that cause lower back pain in females:

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

PMS is a common condition many women experience before their periods. Lower back pain is one of the most common symptoms of PMS, along with abdominal cramps. This pain occurs due to severe inflammation during menstruation. PMS usually starts a few days before your period and ends within a day or two after.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Another primary cause of lower back pain in females is PMDD. It is a more severe form of PMS. Fewer women experience PMDD than PMS. The symptoms of PMDD can be worse than in PMS and generally begin a week before your period, ending a few days after it starts. You might be at higher risk for PMDD if there is a family history of depression or PMDD.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis can also cause lower back and pelvic pain. This condition occurs when tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of it. This tissue often grows on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining and sometimes around the urinary tract and bowel.

Dysmenorrhea

Painful periods can also cause lower back and abdominal pain. Dysmenorrhea refers to very painful menstruation. While it is manageable for some, it can be highly severe for others. Pain usually occurs in the lower abdomen, lower back, hips, and legs, lasting 1 to 3 days. The intensity of the pain can, at times, feel dull or sharp.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID refers to an inflammation of reproductive organs. Untreated sexually transmitted diseases can cause infection in the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. Fever with lower back pain is one of the primary signs of this condition.

Prevention:

Keep up with regular check-ups because regular gynaecological exams can help spot issues early. Depending on the issue, consult with your gynaecologist. Treatments may include medication, hormone therapy, or surgery.

In addition to the above-mentioned causes, certain health conditions also contribute to striking back pain in females. Take a look:

• Sacroiliitis: Sacroiliitis is an inflammation that occurs in the sacroiliac joints, the area that connects the lower spine to the pelvis. It can cause back pain that spreads to your glutes, hips, or thighs.
• Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis occurs when the space inside your backbone is too small. The narrow canal potentially compresses the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain and numbness in the back. Your legs will start to feel heavy, and the pain will worsen when you stand or walk for a long time.
• Scoliosis: Some people are born with a ‘C’ or ‘S’ shaped abnormal curve at the spinal sideways. As they age, this curve can cause back pain, difficulties standing straight, leg pain, numbness, or weakness in serious cases.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Though this condition is called a disease, it isn’t one. The intervertebral discs in the spine act as a cushion. However, due to ageing or injury, these discs wear down. You may feel pain in your lower back that spreads to your arms, legs, or buttocks. The pain might come and go or get worse when you bend or twist.
• Herniated Disc: A herniated disc is a condition in which the jelly-like centre of a disc leaks from its outer ring. A damaged disc can press on nearby nerves, causing lower back pain and sharp pain that travels down one side of your buttock and leg. If left untreated, herniated discs can lead to cauda equina syndrome, which is a medical emergency.

Living with persistent back pain feels like a long and tiring journey. However, you can always reduce the pain by contacting your healthcare provider. They can offer various treatment options targeting the cause of your pain. With proper medication and care, you will eventually feel better.

Also Read:

→ What Causes Chest Pain in a Woman

→ What is Pelvic Pain

→ When to Worry About Breast Pain