What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Lower Back Pain in Pregnancy?

Lower back pain is a common problem during pregnancy---according to the American Pregnancy Association, between 50 and 70 percent of pregnant women experience it. There are several signs, symptoms and causes of pregnancy back pain, and knowing the difference between typical pain and something more serious is crucial when you're carrying a child.

Lumbar Pain

• Lumbar pain is seen not only in pregnant women, but other people, as well. Women who have suffered from lumbar pain before are more at risk for pain during pregnancy. This type of pain originates around the base of your spine, at or just above the waistline. It may also spread to your legs.
  Be wary of standing or sitting for extended periods of time, or doing heavy lifting---these stresses can exacerbate the pain, and make it worse as the day progresses.

Posterior Pelvic Pain

• Posterior pelvic pain is even more common than lumbar pain and affects the buttocks and thighs. It is caused by physical activity like walking, lifting, sitting down and getting up. Bending your hips, as you would when sitting at a computer and leaning forward over the keyboard, may increase the pain.

Signs of Impending Pain

• Back pain comes with warning signs, many of which are simply found in your own behavior. That is, monitoring the way you move, sleep and sit can reduce back pain before it begins. Elevate your feet when you sit and rest, and try not to sleep on your back---instead, sleep on your left side with a pillow under your knees.
  Try not to bend over at the waist---squat down to pick up objects from the floor. You may also try wearing a support belt or special brace to assist with the extra weight you are carrying.

Serious Signs

• Though back pain is common and not typically indicative of serious complications, it can sometimes be a warning sign. About 1 percent of women experience sciatica, a condition for which you should see a doctor. If you have severe leg and back pain, with pain that extends to your foot with tingling sensations and numbness, you may be at risk for sciatica.
  Dull backaches may indicate preterm labor, and any back pain that occurs with vaginal discharge or bleeding may be a sign of a problem. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms.