Pregnancy
Pregnancy Back Pain
Back and pelvic girdle pain are common in pregnancy and can start at any stage. Physiotherapy can ease pain and help you stay active through each trimester.
- Brookvale4/42-46 Wattle Road, Brookvale NSW 2100
- Terrey Hills · Wednesdays17 Yulong Avenue, Terrey Hills NSW 2084
- Private one to one appointments
- No referral required
- Back and pelvic girdle pain
Understanding it
Why does back pain happen in pregnancy?
Backache during pregnancy is common and has several causes. As your baby grows, your posture changes, your centre of gravity shifts and pregnancy hormones make ligaments more flexible. Together these change how your back and pelvis carry load, which can lead to pain in the lower back, the pelvis or around the pubic bone.
Pain can start at any stage of pregnancy. Pelvic girdle pain (pain at the back of the pelvis or the front at the pubic bone) is especially common, and your physiotherapist can recommend support and exercise to suit you.
Common symptoms of back pain in pregnancy
- Aching in the lower back, often worse later in the day
- Pain at the back of the pelvis, buttock or over the pubic bone
- Pain turning in bed, climbing stairs or getting in and out of the car
- Pain standing on one leg, such as when getting dressed
- Rib or mid back pain later in pregnancy
Why it happens
What contributes to back pain in pregnancy?
Changing posture
A growing bump changes how your spine and pelvis are loaded.
Hormonal changes
Hormones that relax ligaments can make the pelvis feel less stable.
Changes in strength
Stretched abdominal muscles and less activity can leave the back working harder.
Daily load
Lifting toddlers, long periods sitting or standing, and broken sleep all add up.
How physiotherapy can help
How we assess and treat back pain in pregnancy
- AssessmentA private appointment to check your back and pelvis, how you move and what makes the pain better or worse.
- Treatment and supportHands on treatment, advice on sleeping positions, sitting, lifting and getting in and out of bed, and support options where useful.
- Adapted strengthGentle exercise adapted for pregnancy for your hips and trunk, to help you stay active and comfortable.
Care at Solevo
Services for back pain in pregnancy
Safety first
When to call your maternity team or GP first with back pain
- Vaginal bleeding or a leak of fluid
- Regular tightenings, cramping or period-like pain
- Your baby moving less than usual
- Fever, pain or burning when passing urine, or pain on one side of the back (possible kidney infection)
- Severe headache, vision changes or sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet
- Calf pain or swelling, chest pain or shortness of breath
If any of these apply, contact your maternity unit, midwife or GP straight away. In an emergency call 000.
Emma Docker
Bachelor of Sport & Exercise Science | Master of Physiotherapy
Emma has a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science and a Master of Physiotherapy, and sees clients at Brookvale and Terrey Hills.
FAQs
Pregnancy back pain FAQs
Is it safe to see a physio while pregnant?
Physiotherapy is commonly used to support people through pregnancy, and your physiotherapist will adjust treatment and exercise to your stage of pregnancy. Tell us about your pregnancy and any complications when you book, and check with your doctor or midwife if you are unsure.
Do I need clearance from my obstetrician or midwife?
You do not need a referral to book physio. If you have a complication or any concern about your pregnancy, check with your obstetrician or midwife first, and tell us when you book.
Will the pain go away after birth?
For many people pregnancy related back and pelvic pain settles after birth, but this is different for everyone. If pain continues or you have new pain, see your GP or book a physio appointment so we can assess what is going on.
What can physiotherapy do for back pain in pregnancy?
Your physiotherapist assesses your back and pelvis, then may use hands on treatment, advice on sleeping, sitting and lifting, support options and gentle exercise adapted for pregnancy. The plan is based on your stage of pregnancy and what makes your pain better or worse.
Can back pain start in early pregnancy?
Yes. Back pain can start at any stage of pregnancy, including the first trimester. Hormonal changes, changing posture and daily load can all play a part. If you have bleeding, cramping or period-like pain with back pain, contact your maternity team or GP straight away.
Why does my lower back hurt in the third trimester?
As your baby grows, your posture and centre of gravity change, which changes how your back and pelvis carry load. Pain is common in later pregnancy, but it can have different causes, so your physiotherapist will assess what is going on for you.
Can I get upper or middle back pain in pregnancy?
Yes. Pain between the shoulder blades, in the middle of the back or around the ribs can happen later in pregnancy as your ribs and posture change. Your physiotherapist can assess where the pain comes from. Lower back pain is covered in our Lower Back Pain guide.
How much does pregnancy physio cost?
You’ll see the price for each appointment type when you book online.
How do I book?
Book physio online with the Book Physio button.