Back and Pelvic Pain in Pregnancy: What Can Help

Pregnancy is exciting, but it can also be uncomfortable. You might find it hard to roll over in bed, feel a sharp pain at the front of your pelvis getting out of the car, or have a lower back that aches by the end of the day. When you're also working, looking after other kids or just trying to get some sleep, that discomfort adds up.

Back and pelvic pain are very common during pregnancy. Here's why it happens, what can help, and where chiropractic care may fit.

Why pregnancy can cause back and pelvic pain

• Hormonal changes. Hormones such as relaxin help the body prepare for birth by making ligaments more flexible, which can also make joints feel less stable.
• Changing posture. As your baby grows, your centre of gravity shifts and the curve in your lower back often increases.
• Extra load. Weight gain places more demand on the back, pelvis and hips.
• Sleep and activity changes. It's harder to get comfortable, and routines change.

Common types of pain include lower back pain, pain at the back of the pelvis near the dimples, pain at the front of the pelvis (pubic symphysis), and pain down the back of the leg.

Simple things that often help

• Keep moving with gentle walking, swimming or pregnancy-specific exercise classes.
• Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees and under your bump.
• Keep your knees together when rolling over or getting in and out of the car.
• Avoid standing on one leg. Sit down to put on pants and shoes.
• Ask for help with heavy lifting.

Where chiropractic care may fit

Chiropractic care during pregnancy focuses on comfort and movement, using gentle techniques adapted to each stage of pregnancy. At your first visit, your chiropractor will take a thorough history, ask about your pregnancy and any advice from your midwife or doctor, and examine your back, pelvis and hips.

If they think they can help, care may include:

• Gentle adjustments or mobilisation, using positions and supports suited to pregnancy
• Soft tissue work for the lower back, hips and buttocks
• Exercises and stretches to support strength and comfort
• Practical advice on sleep, posture and everyday movement

Your chiropractor will work alongside your midwife, obstetrician or GP. Many people also find pregnancy massage a helpful addition.

When to contact your midwife or doctor

Contact your maternity care provider promptly if you have:

• Back pain with bleeding, fluid loss or cramping
• Regular tightening or pain that comes and goes
• Fever, or pain when passing urine
• Sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet, or a severe headache
• Reduced baby movements

Book an assessment

If back or pelvic pain is making pregnancy harder than it needs to be, book an assessment. Learn more about pregnancy chiropractic care at Vitality, or book online at our Yokine clinic.

This article is general information only and isn't a substitute for individual advice from a registered health practitioner.