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2. Normal Discomforts of Pregnancy
—
The Physiological Basis for the
Discomfort; Management of the Discomfort; AND Indications of Potential
Problems that Should Be Reported to Your Obstetrics (OB) Care Provider.
.
a.
Backache
1) Definition: Nonpathological
lumbosacral backache usually occurring in the second and third trimesters.
2) Physiological basis
(a) The increased size of the uterus
contributes to muscle strain.
(b) Changes in posture also contribute
to muscle strain.
(c) Excessive bending, walking, and lifting
are other causes of backache.
(d) High back pain can occur from the
increasing size of the breasts.
3) Management of high back pain
(a) Consider a supportive bra.
(b) Expectant mother can stretch her
arms over her head to exercise the muscles of the upper back.
4) Management of lower back pain
(a) Practice good posture and body
alignment.
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Bend at knees, with back straight
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Do not bend at the waist
(b) Learn proper body mechanics.
(c) Wear low-heeled shoes.
(d) Exercise as permitted by the obstetrics
(OB) care provider.
(e) Place pillows in a manner that will
position and straighten out the back, alleviating pulling and strain.
(f) Relief measures include moist warm
compresses and massage.
(g) Acetaminophen (Tylenol®)
will help, if permitted by the OB care provider. IT IS BEST TO NEVER
take any medications without the OB care provider's knowledge.
5) Indicators to refer to your OB care
provider.
(a) Severe persistent pain should
be reported.
(b) Signs and symptoms of premature
labor or urinary tract infection should also be reported to your OB care
provider.
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