An enduring debate in pregnancy care is whether low back pain is an inevitable or perhaps even essential component of a healthy pregnancy. Some have suggested that low back pain may perform a functional role as a protective agent by focusing women’s attention on the physical stresses their bodies are undergoing, thereby making them more cautious during pregnancy. Regardless, diagnosis and treatment of low back pain present formidable challenges to patients and their health care providers.
In women with nocturnal pain, decreased time spent sleeping in the supine position may alleviate symptoms. Advising women to sleep on their side may reduce pressure on the vena cava and resolve pain that is possibly vascular in origin. Several apparati may also provide significant relief. A wedge-shaped pillow can support the gravid uterus and abdomen while lying on one’s side. Women using such a pillow reported less backache than women using a standard cushion.
In addition, stockings that promote venous return may reduce lower extremity edema and nocturnal low back pain.
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