Some back injuries may be unsafe with pregnancy.
Depending on the source of the back pain, getting pregnant when you have back pain can be extremely dangerous. However, if the injuries are well-managed or not severe, pregnancy is an option and symptoms can be managed.
Injuries
Women with chronic back pain may have increased symptoms in pregnancy. For women with spinal cord injuries, pregnancy can damage the spinal cord further.
Increased Symptoms
Pregnancy can worsen back pain because of the pressure the fetus puts on the spine. Women who already have sciatic nerve pain often feel more pain once the fetus begins to gain weight. General backaches can become increasingly more painful as the ligaments loosen and the pressure increases.
Risks
Depending on the type and degree of injury, women with spinal cord injuries who get pregnant are putting themselves at risk of further injury, including paralysis. Pregnancy can also be dangerous for women with disc bulges; the pressure of pushing during delivery can rupture the disc.
Pain Relief
Pregnant women have options to ease general back pain that may have worsened with pregnancy, including ice, heat, braces and massage.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care can provide pain relief. Chiropractic adjustments can keep the spine in alignment, before, during and after pregnancy.
