When Does Back Pain Start in Pregnancy?

Back Pain in Pregnancy: When It Starts and How to Manage It

Back pain might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of pregnancy, but for over half of all expectant mothers, it quickly becomes an everyday reality. Over 50% of pregnant individuals experience back pain, which is a common symptom during pregnancy.

It can start in the first trimester and typically gets worse as the pregnancy continues. This varies based on hormonal, anatomical, and biomechanical changes. Here is a comprehensive guide covering when back pain starts in pregnancy, its types, risks, management tips, and more.

Keep reading!

Can Back Pain Start in Early Pregnancy?

Yes, back pain can present as early as 4-8 weeks into pregnancy. This early onset is largely a result of the reasons as stated below.

1. Relaxin Hormone Release: The body releases the relaxin hormone, which loosens ligaments and joints, mainly in the pelvic region. Though critical for childbirth, this enhanced looseness can compromise the stability of the spine and sacroiliac joints and cause discomfort.
2. Effects of Progesterone: There is an increase in progesterone, which leads to the loosening of ligaments, causing reduced support to the spine and leading to overexertion of muscles.
3. Implantation and Uterine Expansion: Early uterine growth compresses nearby structures, including the lower back. 

When Does Back Pain Worsen During Pregnancy?

Back pain often gets worse between 14 and 28 weeks and affects most pregnant women. There are also other key contributing factors:

• The expanding uterus causes the spine to curve forward to counterbalance the changing center of gravity, resting more stress on the lower back.
• This extra weight is a burden on the spine and robs core muscles of strength, resulting in stiffness and pain.
• Stretching of the round ligaments can also lead to sharp pains, which are often confused with back pain.

Why Does Back Pain Peak in the Third Trimester?

Back pain tends to increase during the third trimester (the 28th - 40th week), primarily due to the widening and loosening of the pelvis that can lead to extreme pain in the lower back and hips.

A growing uterus may press on the sciatic nerve, too, causing sharp pain that shoots down the leg. Fatigue and strain on the muscles increase discomfort as the body is pushed to work harder.

What are the Types of Pregnancy-Related Back Pain? Back pain in pregnancy can be divided into the following categories:

• Lumbar Pain - Occurs in and around the lower back and spine and is aggravated by long periods spent sitting or standing.
• Posterior Pelvic Pain - Characterized by pain deep in the buttocks and hips that often gets worse when you move.
• Sciatica - The pain shoots down the leg and is caused by nerve compression.

Who is at Higher Risk of Severe Back Pain During Pregnancy? 

People with the following conditions are at a higher risk of severe back pain during pregnancy:

• Existing Back Pain: Those who had chronic lower back pain before getting pregnant may develop worse pain.
• Multiple Pregnancy: Carrying twins, triples, or additional children puts a strain on the spine and increases back pain.
• Obesity or Uncontrolled Weight Gain: Increased body weight puts more pressure on the spine, causing the spinal column to stay in abnormal postures.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Absence of movement leads to loosening of core muscles, which fails to support the lower back.
• Bad Posture and Lifting Methods: Improper sitting, standing, or lifting can put pressure on your spinal muscles and joints.

How Can You Manage and Prevent Back Pain During Pregnancy? 

Here are some effective methods to manage pregnancy-related back pain:

• Exercise and Physiotherapy: Pre-natal yoga, swimming, and targeted stretching strengthen the core and back muscles.
• Proper Posture: You can prevent strain from developing by sitting and standing with a neutral spine.
• Supportive Gear: Maternity belts, the right shoes, and ergonomic chairs help the spine align.
• Sleep Positioning: Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees helps relieve pressure on your spine.
• Seek Medical Consultation: Intense pain should be checked by a doctor. The maternity cover of Star Health Insurance includes several pre-natal conditions, which can help expecting mothers effectively deal with such issues.

Can Back Pain During Pregnancy Affect Daily Activities? 

Yes, chronic back pain during pregnancy can significantly affect one's ability to do normal things like walking, standing, or sleeping:

• Putting strain on the lower back muscles makes it difficult to bend or lift objects.
• Prolonged sitting without support can worsen discomfort, which affects workplace productivity and household chores.
• Sleep disruption is also common, as getting into a comfortable position is difficult.

Moving regularly, correcting posture, and using supportive equipment can lessen discomfort and improve productivity in day-to-day tasks.

When Should You See a Doctor for Back Pain During Pregnancy?

Get immediate medical help if you have sudden, severe pain that isn’t relieved by rest or changing your posture. Pain with fever, chills, or burning urination may be a sign of an infection that needs treatment.

Feeling numb, tingly or losing control of your bladder and bowels may indicate nerve compression. If it happens to you out of the blue, it could be a warning sign of early labor (also called preterm contractions or abdominal tightening) and should be evaluated quickly.

For added support and peace of mind during pregnancy, you can consider a comprehensive maternity health insurance plan like those offered by Star Health.

Note that the specific coverage you get depends on your policy terms, so be sure to double-check the terms and conditions before proceeding.

Call us now for further guidance!