Pregnancy can come along with a host of concerns, but this should be an overall positive experience for expectant mothers. How can you keep back pain from casting a pall over an exciting time in your life? Here are 5 things you should know.

1. Gaining weight affects the back – When a pregnant woman experiences back pain, the first place blame is usually placed is on any weight gained during the pregnancy. It makes sense that a sudden gain of 30, 40, 50, or even more pounds in a little over half a year will lead additional strain on the spine.
2. Hormone’s affect pain levels – Increased hormone levels are a common factor in increased back pain during pregnancy. Relaxin, in particular, loosens the pelvic joints to make natural childbirth easier. However, this also reduces the spine’s natural support.
3. Age matters – The younger you are, the more likely you are to experience back pain while pregnant.
4. Stress causes back pain – This is true when a person is not pregnant, so why not during pregnancy? If you have a stressful job, that could be the source of some of your pain.
5. Most accept it – Only half of pregnant women even bother to seek treatment for lower back pain.

Rather than resigning yourself to pain during pregnancy, here are a few things you can do to ease your back.

3 Ways to Reduce Back Pain During Pregnancy

While some of the contributing factors noted above are a natural part of the birth process, here are a few things you can do to relieve pain.

• Destress – Continue to enjoy hobbies and light exercise during pregnancy as these factors can help reduce the stress that leads to back pain. Take breaks as needed, talk out difficult emotions, and be sure to meditate on positive things in your life each day.
• Pay attention to posture – The extra weight makes it easy to arch the lower back. Plus, if you work at an office job, you may be working right up until the birth. Sitting at a desk and looking down at monitors and mobile devices can affect the neck and, in turn, the back.

See an upper cervical chiropractor – Gentle adjustments are safe for you and your baby and can help you to maintain a healthy spine. This can lead to overall health benefits and less pain during pregnancy.

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