Back pain at 38 weeks of pregnancy

Due to the changes in estrogen in pregnant women's bodies, their bodies will also have some abnormal conditions compared to when they are not pregnant. Especially as the pregnancy progresses, the chances of physical abnormalities increase greatly. The 38th week of pregnancy is a very dangerous period, but many pregnant women at the 38th week of pregnancy experience back pain. Is this a sign of delivery?

What is the reason for back pain at 38 weeks of pregnancy?

Hormonal changes during pregnancy. Hormonal changes in the body after pregnancy can cause many pregnancy reactions in pregnant women, and back pain is one of them. After pregnancy, hormone changes in the body cause the pelvic ligaments to relax to adapt to the growth of the fetus and the needs of future delivery. This will also cause the ligaments and fascia in the waist to relax, reducing their elasticity, making them prone to strain and causing back pain.

The placenta and amniotic fluid increase, and the lumbar spine is overloaded. This is the main reason for back pain in pregnant women. After pregnancy, the fetus and its attached placenta, amniotic fluid, etc. grow larger and larger day by day, increasing the burden on the front of the lumbar spine. In order to maintain balance, pregnant women must contract their back muscles forcefully when standing, causing the pelvis to tilt forward and forming a unique straight back posture. The back muscles continue to contract and they cannot relax and rest. Over time, fatigue will cause back pain.

Can I massage my back when I am 38 weeks pregnant?

Pregnant women can have appropriate massage for back pain, but the massage technique should not be too heavy. You can use massage techniques such as pressing, kneading, rubbing, and smearing. However, overly rough massage may cause miscarriage, so if pregnant women need massage, they must be careful. Generally speaking, massage is not allowed in the three months before delivery. Moreover, during massage, pregnant women should not use hot compresses and plasters that promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis, such as musk sedative cream, blood circulation and acid-stopping cream, as well as heat therapy, as these will be harmful to pregnant women and fetuses.

At 38 weeks of pregnancy, it is the late stage of pregnancy. The belly is already very big at this time, so there will be many inconveniences in movement, and the body needs to bear more pressure. It is normal to have back pain. Therefore, pregnant mothers should walk around appropriately and pay attention to their living habits in the late stage of pregnancy. If back pain is accompanied by bleeding symptoms, you should seek medical attention in time.