In this article:
Why Does Labour Cause Pain in Your Back?
The position of your foetus in the womb can cause back pain when you’re in labour. If your baby is facing your belly (occiput posterior position), their head might press right against your tailbone and spine when you have contractions. This pressure causes intense lower back pain that feels different from the abdominal contractions.Nevertheless, only your baby’s position isn’t the factor here. There are also:
- Hormonal changes that loosen muscles and joints
- Existing back problems become more painful during labour
- Lengthy labour or intense contractions will certainly cause lower back pain
- Strained back muscles due to carrying a heavy weight during pregnancy
What exactly is Back Pain during Labour?
You might encounter:- Pain that radiates to the thighs, hips, and buttocks
- Discomfort that worsens when you stand still or lie flat
- Constant pain in the lower back that doesn't fade between contractions
- Burning sensation or strong pressure in your back during every contraction
Could Your Baby’s Position Cause Back Pain?
Your baby's position is often the main reason for back pain in labour. In the occiput posterior position, your baby's back is against your spine, and their head puts pressure on the tailbone on every contraction.In most cases, babies rotate naturally during labour to face downward. But if that doesn't happen, the pain can persist strongly until delivery.
Your medical team can often tell your baby's position by feeling your belly or checking during labour.
Is Back Labour Common?
Research indicates that about 1 in 4 women experience this. It happens more often in first-time pregnancies and when you already had lower back pain during pregnancy.It might scare you, but you don’t need to freak out. It’s a normal experience during your labour and it doesn’t mean anything is seriously wrong.
What Can You Do to Comfort Yourself from Pain?
You can take several steps to manage or reduce back pain. These are safe methods that can be done with your doctor's approval:- Keep changing your postures during contractions by kneeling on all fours, rocking on a birthing ball, or leaning forward to relax your back.
- Use a warm or cold compress to relax your muscles and feel better.
- Have your partner or nurse push firmly on your lower back when you’ve contractions. A lot of women find this helpful.
- A warm water bath can relax your muscles and make contractions bearable.
- Breathe slowly and deeply to keep calm and handle pain with ease.
- If the pain gets too intense, talk to your doctor about options like epidurals or pain-relieving injections.
What are The Disturbing Indications?
Most back pain is normal in labour, but some symptoms need a doctor’s attention immediately. Tell your doctor right away if:- You have really intense and sudden pain with a fever or blood loss
- You encounter pain that’s not like your normal contractions
- You have had severe back pain before your due date
Is it Possible to Prevent Back Labour?
Not always, but you can reduce the likelihood if you move around and maintain a good posture during pregnancy.Try these steps:
- While sitting or standing, maintain a good posture
- Keep yourself engaged in mild exercises like pelvic tilts or prenatal yoga to help your baby position properly
- You must check your weight and maintain it within the ideal range as recommended by your medic
- You must not lie on your back too much; lying on your side is better for blood flow
How to Stay Safe?
So if you start feeling contractions:- You must try a heating pad or warm compress to help with the pain
- You should keep moving instead of sitting around
- You must keep yourself hydrated and practice breathing methods
- Have your partner help you with counter-pressure or a lower back massage
- Communicate with your healthcare team if the pain becomes unbearable
Emotional Support
Intense back pain can make a labour journey more difficult. Remember, you must ask for support. Having your partner there really helps, whether they’re reassuring you, holding your hand, or just cheering you up.Many individuals feel better talking to their midwife, who can suggest comfortable positions and share relaxation tips. When you’re calm emotionally, the pain often feels easier to handle.
Back pain can really be intense when you’re in labour. It’s tough, but usually, it’s just your body changing and the foetus adjusting positions. If you follow the right techniques, have medical guidance, and a partner's support, you can deal with the pain and concentrate on having a safe delivery.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on What Causes Intense Back Pain During Labour
- Does back labour mean it’ll take more time for delivery?
Sometimes, yes. The occiput posterior position might take a bit for your baby to turn, so that labour could be a little longer. - What's my partner’s role in my back labour?
Massages and counter-pressure on your lower back can work. They can also help you with warm compresses and changing positions. Plus, their support means a lot. - Is back labour unsafe?
In most cases, it's not unsafe, only extremely painful. But if you encounter unexpected or intense pain along with blood loss or fever, call your doctor right away.