Carrying extra weight when pregnant is already difficult. Imagine that in addition to the weight of your belly, a pregnant woman can also suffer from pain in the buttocks, hips, and thighs because of a very well-known nerve: the sciatic nerve. Find out what it is, what causes it, and how to treat sciatic pain during pregnancy.

What Is Sciatic Pain?

Sciatic pain, also known as lumbosacral radicular syndrome, is caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve, which starts in the lumbar or lower spine and ends in the thigh1. It can be a deep pain, a dull ache, or a sharp pain. Sciatic pain can range from mild to severe. Often, it improves with treatment.

What Causes Sciatic Pain During Pregnancy?

In general, 50 to 60% of women suffer from back pain during pregnancy. The symptoms of sciatic pain in pregnancy can be caused by muscle tension and unstable joints. Pelvic bone pain, problems with the sacroiliac joints, and a condition called piriformis syndrome, which affects one of the buttock muscles, are common causes of sciatica during pregnancy2. This is due to increased pregnancy hormones such as relaxin, which can relax the ligaments (the structures that connect bones to joints), making them more flexible, especially in the pelvic area3. The baby’s weight can also contribute to joint problems or piriformis syndrome, as it puts extra pressure on the joints of the pelvis and hips. Occasionally, the baby’s position may increase pressure on the sciatic nerve.

What Can You Do to Relieve Sciatica?

Treatments for sciatic pain in pregnancy include complementary therapies, alternative treatments, and physiotherapy. In physiotherapy, the specialist will show you exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor, abdominal, and back muscles. They will also show ways to improve posture and may follow up during your pregnancy to check nerve function. About half of the women with sciatic pain in pregnancy feel better within 10 days to two weeks, and most (about 75%) recover within four to 12 weeks. But for some women, symptoms can last much longer. It’s possible to take some type of medication to relieve sciatic pain in pregnancy, but it is very important that it is prescribed by a doctor. Only your doctor can tell you how much to take and for how long. Other therapies that may be used include acupuncture, osteopathy, and chiropractic care, although there is no evidence about how useful they are for treating sciatica in pregnancy. If you choose a complementary therapy, make sure the registered professional has experience treating pregnant women. Some women also find relief in swimming, as it is a low-impact exercise. This is because the water helps support the baby’s weight.

How to Relieve Sciatic Pain in Pregnancy at Home?

Self-care for sciatic pain during pregnancy includes exercises to stretch the leg, buttock, and hip muscles to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. At home, you can follow some of these tips:

  • With your skin protected by a flannel or cloth, apply heat (heating pad) or an ice pack to the affected area to help reduce pain. Alternating between heat and cold helps some people.
  • Stay as active as possible, as this will help you recover. As you try to do your normal activities, it’s normal to feel a little pain, but anxiety before the task can make it worse.
  • Pay attention to your posture and try to keep your back slightly arched. When sitting, use a cushion or a rolled towel behind your back to support your spine.
  • Try not to lift anything heavy. If you do have to lift something, bend your knees and keep your back straight. Hold the object close to your body.
  • Use pillows under your belly, behind your back, and between your knees when sleeping.

Living With the Pain

Sciatic pain in pregnancy can be painful and frustrating, but stretching can relieve it by reducing muscle tension and increasing movement in the hips, back, and legs. Sciatic pain in pregnancy can get worse if you sit or stay in the same position for long periods. So make sure to change positions throughout the day. Listen to your body and stop any activities that make your sciatic pain worse. Always talk to your doctor before starting any type of physical activity or exercise. If you experience any symptoms like dizziness, headaches, or bleeding, stop exercising immediately and seek medical help. Also see: Pregnancy Discomforts – What Does a Pregnant Woman Feel? Photos: Pixabay