Dealing with back pain after giving birth?
It’s a very common issue that can affect your lower back, upper back and tailbone. Many factors can cause postpartum back pain, including hormonal changes, weakened core and pelvic floor muscles, and frequent positioning, placing strain on your back (leaning over for diaper changes, breastfeeding, etc.). Up to 20% of women experience back pain for roughly three to six months after delivery. It usually resolves on its own, but for some women, it can persist, requiring physical therapy or other interventions to help you heal.
Ways to cope and find relief
During your postpartum checkup appointments, make sure to tell your healthcare provider that you’re experiencing back pain. They can help you explore your treatment options, from home remedies and self-care techniques to referrals to a physical therapist.
Some of the most common therapies and suggestions include:
- Using a heating pad and/or cold pack to reduce pain in the affected area
- Soaking in a warm tub, once your provider has given the green-light for postpartum baths
- Practicing proper body mechanics, including posture corrections and bending from your knees
- Using a breastfeeding pillow or footstool to achieve a better breastfeeding position
- Trying a side-lying breastfeeding position to see if it helps reduce your back pain
- Seeing a lactation consultant for more guidance on adjusting your breastfeeding position
- Letting others do the heavy lifting for a while, until your back pain has improved
- Doing some gentle exercise, such as taking walks, if recommended by your provider
- Trying transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for temporary pain relief
- Using a nonprescription pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain*
- Getting a referral to physical therapy to learn exercises that lessen pain and build core strength
- Pursuing alternative treatments such as acupuncture, massages, or chiropractic adjustments
- Taking a low dose of a mild opioid for a short period if other treatments aren’t working
- Getting a referral to a back pain specialist if your condition isn’t improving over time
*If you’re breastfeeding, ibuprofen is usually the recommended pain reliever as very little of it passes into your breastmilk. However, acetaminophen is also considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
When to seek care immediately
Postpartum back pain is typically something that gets better after several months. Should your back pain become severe or constant, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible, as intense or worsening pain could indicate a postpartum infection or underlying neurological problem.
Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team
Sources:
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Postpartum Pain Management. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/postpartum-pain-management. Accessed August 22, 2024.
- BabyCenter. Postpartum back pain: How to get relief. https://www.babycenter.com/baby/postpartum-health/postpartum-back-pain-how-to-get-relief_1152191. Accessed August 22, 2024.
