Weight gain, hormonal changes, and stress are the common causes of back pain on the left side during pregnancy. Here is detailed information on the causes and cures for backache in pregnancy.

Nearly all women experience pain or spasms in lower left, right or middle back in pregnancy. It may be experienced in the early, middle or even later months of pregnancy. The duration of the pain differs, and may last for up to 20 weeks. Although usually not a cause of worry, it is essential to be aware of the reasons that lead to pain.

Causes

Weight Gain
Weight gain is the major cause of back pain in pregnancy, especially in the later phase. The increasing weight of the baby can also lead to weight gain in woman. During pregnancy, the weight of a woman can increase a maximum up to 35 pounds (15 kg). This can exert strain on the back and lead to right or left side back pain. On the other hand, due to the increasing size of the uterus, the center of gravity of women changes, which leads to change in posture. This puts further strain on the lower back, and hence, leads to pain and spasms.

Hormonal Changes
In pregnant women, the body releases a hormone known as relaxin, that is essential to relax the pelvic muscles for childbirth. The hormone relaxin also acts on the muscles of the back and relaxes them. This affects the support of the back resulting in pain.

Apart from the aforementioned causes, stress is also considered as one of the significant causes of back pain during pregnancy. Women often undergo a lot of emotional stress in pregnancy and may also suffer from mood swings. Back pain can be traced as one of the side effects of stress experienced while pregnant.

Treating Back Pain

Although, as aforementioned, backache in early pregnancy is quite common, it is wise to consult your doctor about it. Sometimes, back pain can also be caused due to some disease affecting the bones or the spinal cord, and hence, it is better to get the condition diagnosed by the doctor. In most of the cases, medications are not required and one is advised against it. Pregnancy exercises under the supervision of a physiotherapist or a trainer can be helpful. Secondly, pregnant women should take complete rest and avoid standing or sitting in one position for a long time. You should sleep on your side with proper back support on a comfortable bed. On the other hand, you can go for heat or cold packs as they can be effective for lower back pain relief. Rubbing the back or a massage can also help in treating back pain.

Simple home remedies are useful in treating back pain. However, make sure you consult the doctor before using any home remedies, natural products, painkillers or any over-the-counter medication during pregnancy. Take care!

Disclaimer: This article is meant only for educational purposes. It is in no way to be used as a substitute for proper consultation and medical treatment.