Pregnancy symptoms
Is back pain normal during pregnancy?
Yes — as your baby grows your posture changes and the ligaments soften, which often causes low back pain.
Gentle activity, good posture, supportive shoes, sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees and warm compresses all help. Avoid lifting heavy things and standing for long periods.
Back pain with fever, burning urine, bleeding or regular tightening before 37 weeks needs to be assessed, as it may be an infection or early labour.
What you can do
- Keep moving gently — walking and stretching help
- Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees
- Avoid heavy lifting
When to seek care
- Back pain with fever or burning when passing urine
- Regular tightening or pain before 37 weeks
- Back pain with vaginal bleeding or fluid loss
Back pain with fever, bleeding, leaking fluid or regular contractions before 37 weeks should be assessed the same day.
This information is general health education and does not replace advice from your nurse, midwife or doctor. In an emergency go to your nearest facility.