Back pain after pregnancy can be a pain, quite literally. How long will it last? And is there a good way to get rid of it? Let’s take a closer look at postpartum back pain.

Why Does My Back Hurt After Pregnancy?

There are several reasons your back may hurt after your pregnancy.

Many might expect their body to feel much better after they deliver their baby. But, pregnancy and delivery can change your body, and these changes don’t go away immediately after birth. Hormones released during pregnancy cause changes that allow room for a growing baby inside a woman’s body.  Joints are relaxed, muscles stretched, and the pelvic opens slightly as the uterus expands. These changes don’t go away immediately after birth. It takes time to build up the strength in muscles and joints again.

In addition, delivery can be a traumatic event for the body, causing bruising, or even stress fractures. You body may feel pain as a result of these “injuries” as they heal.

Finally, many activities involved in caring for a newborn have us bending, lifting, and twisting. All of these movements can further strain weakened muscles and joints.

How Long Does Postpartum Back Pain Last?

How long back pain lasts after pregnancy will depend upon what’s causing it. Your muscle strength before becoming pregnant and pregnancy complications can also become a factor. As a general rule of thumb, pregnancy related back pain subsides within a few months after delivery. Luckily, there are ways to help you deal with and get rid of back pain after pregnancy.

How Do You Get Rid of Back Pain After Pregnancy?

Over the counter pain medication is often recommended for back pain. However, breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before taking any medications.

Rest and exercise can help the body heal and muscles strengthen. In addition, try to maintain good posture and use proper lifting techniques while caring for your little one. If you need to carry your baby around, a front backpack style carrier can help distribute the weight evenly, as opposed to carrying the baby on your hip.

Back pain after pregnancy can be a pain, but is not uncommon. With some exercises and good practices you can help nurture your body back to its pre-pregnancy shape. If the pain continues after several months, it might be time to see a doctor. Or, if you experience numbness, a fever, incontinence, or bowel control problems, you should seek medical attention immediately.

References:

• Back Pain After Pregnancy (spine-health.com)