Pregnancy Discomforts

Backache
 

Mainly experienced in the 3rd trimester normally as a result of poor posture - the mother tends to lean backwards to counterbalance the change in weight distribution. During pregnancy the change in the level of the hormones progesterone and oestrogen and the presence of the hormone relaxin, cause the ligaments around your joints to loosen, providing for more movement in the lower spine and pelvis, helping to accommodate your growing baby and allowing for an easier birth.

 Because of the pelvic joints being softer and more mobile than normal, they can easily be strained and this causes you to be more prone to backache. Posture is extremely important during your pregnant months, and you may find antenatal classes to be extremely helpful, in obtaining the correct pelvic tilt.

Try and rest as often as possible.

• As backache responds well to heat, try taking a warm bath or shower to relax your muscles, then lie down with a hot water bottle covering the base of your spine.
• Switch to low-heeled shoes as high heels tend to alter the angle between the pelvic bones and your lower spine, thus causing strain.
• Improve your circulation by regular exercising of the legs.
• Avoid wearing tight, restrictive clothing such as knee-high stockings and socks.
• Try and rest at least twice a day.

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