Back pain is one of the most common discomforts during pregnancy.

What Causes Back Pain
Back pain in pregnancy has many possible causes. It usually is caused by strain on the back muscles.

Weakness of the abdominal muscles also can cause back pain.

What You Can Do
To help prevent or ease back pain, try to be aware of how you stand, sit and move. Here are some tips that may help:

• Wear low-heeled (but not flat) shoes with good arch support.
• Ask for help when lifting heavy objects.
• When standing for long periods, place one foot on a stool or box.
• If your bed is too soft, have someone help you place a board between the mattress and box spring.
• Don’t bend over from the waist to pick things up — squat down, bend your knees, and keep your back straight.
• Sit in chairs with good back support, or use a small pillow behind the low part of your back.
• Try to sleep on your side with one or two pillows between your legs for support.
• Apply heat or cold to the painful area or massage it.

Doing special exercises for the back also can help lessen backache.

If back pain continues to be a problem, your doctor may suggest that you wear a maternity girdle, special elastic sling, or back brace.

Don’t try to treat yourself. Back pain also can be caused by other problems. Back pain is one of the main symptoms of preterm labor.

Finally … 
During pregnancy your body will go through many changes. Some of these changes may cause discomfort. This is normal. Backache is one of the most common complaints during pregnancy.

This excerpt from ACOG’s Patient Education Pamphlet is provided for your information. It is not medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for visiting your doctor. If you need medical care, have any questions, or wish to receive the full text of this Patient Education Pamphlet, please contact your obstetrician-gynecologist.