Learn How To Prevent Back Pain During Pregnancy

Nobody enjoys back pains...

Pregnancy back pain during some stage of pregnancy is practically unavoidable. It is estimated that two of every three pregnant women will feel back pains by the 36th week. As the baby grows, more pressure is placed on the back to support the mothers growing abdomen. Another contributor to back pain is the position of the growing baby in the womb. There are several other factors that can cause back pain in pregnant mothers. Over exertion and stress can be major factors, besides being unhealthy for the baby. While most back pain resolves itself a few months after giving birth, some back pain can be prevented altogether. Now wouldn't that be even better?

Take it Easy

Make time for frequent breaks and get plenty of rest. This does not mean to become a couch potato, but you should take more time to rest and relax. Put your feet up, grab a cup of decaffeinated herbal tea and take it easy. Try to lie down once in a while and, if at all possible, try to minimize activities that put stress on your back. While at work, do not sit for too long and when you are sitting, it is suggested that you place a pillow behind the small of your back.

Get Enough Exercise

Exercise can help with back pain and can help to strengthen the muscles in the back. Yoga is a great exercise for this purpose. Walking is great, but you need some strengthening and stretching exercises as well, that you do not get with just walking. Check in your area for pregnancy exercise classes and pregnancy yoga. If you do not like the idea of going to classes, you can find several pregnancy yoga and pregnancy exercise DVDs. Just make sure that you check with your doctor before you start any exercise program. Once he gives you the green light, though, go for it.

Eat a Proper Diet

Eating healthy and eating right can work to your advantage in several ways. First, eating healthy will help you from gaining additional weight. The less extra weight you are carrying, the less pressure you have on your back. Second, healthy eating helps your body ward off illness and actually helps it deal with pain more effectively. Last but not least important, drinking plenty of water will keep your kidneys working properly, which can create another type of lower back pain. Healthy eating is better for you and better for your baby.

Get a Pregnancy Girdle

The term, "pregnancy girdle", has an ominous sound, but it can be an expecting mothers best friend. It is designed to be worn under your clothing, much like a traditional girdle. But it is designed to better support and lift your stomach so that pressure is taken off of the back. You can pick up a pregnancy girdle at many maternity shops. Make sure that you get one that fits properly and supports your belly well.

Monitor the Stress

Like I mentioned earlier, stress can cause back pain. Try to relieve your stress, even if it is for just a few moments a day. Set aside 'mommy time' each day so that you can decompress, refresh and relax. Take a warm back, meditate, listen to soft music, anything that helps you relax.