One of the most common symptoms that occurs during pregnancy is lower back pain. The pain usually starts in the second half of the pregnancy and last until the baby is born. If you are experiencing back pain, it is important to understand what is causing it and what you can do to alleviate it.

Hormonal Changes

A lesser known cause of lower back pain is hormonal changes. During your pregnancy, hormones are released that sometimes soften the joints and ligaments in the pelvic area. As a result, the usual support provided by the joints and ligaments is affected.

To counter this effect, you can focus on exercises that help to strengthen the back and abdomen. For instance, swimming can help with strengthening your back and abdomen and also serve as a stress reliever. It is important to talk to your doctor about which exercises are safe to do before starting a regimen.

Change in Center of Gravity

As your pregnancy progresses, your center of gravity will start to shift. Your uterus and baby's growth are to blame for the change. The change results in back pain and can even impact your coordination.

Fortunately, you can adjust with the change as it occurs. One way of doing this is sticking to shoes that offer support. Shoes with poor support, such as high heels, can add to the sense that your body is off-kilter. You can also consider wearing a support belt. The belt will help alleviate the stress of the baby on your body and also help you to stay centered.

Your posture is also key to avoiding pitfalls due to the change in your center of gravity. Practice your posture to avoid falling forward. For instance, try to remember to avoid locking your knees and keep your shoulders back when sitting.

 Stress

Unfortunately, stress can create lower back pain for some women. Stress that you experience can physically manifest in weakened areas of your body and cause an increase in pain.

There are several ways you can combat that stress though. For instance, prenatal yoga is not only a stress reliever, but it can help with relaxing your muscles. You can also try professional treatment from a chiropractor. A skilled chiropractor can not only help with developing a safe exercise program for you for lower back pain treatment, but he or she can help identify other techniques that can help alleviate stress.

You do not have to live with the lower back pain that you are experiencing. Seek professional help so that you can focus on having a healthy baby.

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