Our body changes in many ways when we are pregnant. Some of these changes are to our skeleton and joints.
Relaxin is a hormone secreted during pregnancy with the purpose of loosening up the joints in the pelvis slightly. This allows a little ‘give’ in the pelvis, creating more space for the baby to pass through and hopefully be born easier.
Additionally, our backs become naturally curved as the pregnancy continues. This preserves the woman’s center of balance as her belly grows larger and prevents her from toppling forwards (which can still happen, so please pay attention to what you’re walking on!!).
The side effect of the relaxin hormone is loosening of the ligaments of your back. This, coupled with the increased curving of the spine, combine to give many of us serious lower back pain as the pregnancy continues.
What suggestions do I have for dealing with lower back pain?
Rest up, try not to stand for long periods of time.
See a chiropractor or physical therapist who specializes in pregnancy to help relieve tension and give you strengthening exercises to do.
When standing, try and put one foot in a stool, this relieves some pressure.
Wear low well fitting shoes .
Lift properly, from your knees, not by bending over.
Try hot or cold packs and gentle massage.
Another related tip I received from a client was about bra comfort whilst pregnant. Your ribcage expands significantly during pregnancy due to the uterus pushing up on the ribs. You can buy a bra extender piece to add to your regular bra which lets you to wear your normal bra for longer. Thanks Ilana, for that one . Happy momma Happy baby