More than 50% of pregnant women complain of back pain and many others complain of pubic, pelvic, hip, knee, and many other joint pains during pregnancy. The relaxation of the joints, muscles and tendons occurs during pregnancy to help facilitate childbirth.

Your hips must relax and widen in order to birth your child. Your body, however, does not discriminate well between creating relaxation in one area or in another. It is, unfortunately a generalized process. The degree to which your joints relax will be different in everyone.

Causes of Joint Pain During Pregnancy

• Hormonal changes- Hormones stimulate the relaxation of a variety of muscles in your body.
• Weight gain- can place extra strain on your joints.
• Postural changes- Your center of gravity changes greatly during pregnancy. This causes shifting throughout your body which can lead to joint discomfort.
• Stress- stress adds tension to your body and can contribute to pain anywhere.

Preventing Joint Pain During Pregnancy

• Be sure you are getting adequate calcium and magnesium in your diet.
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Practice prenatal yoga
• Exercise regularly.
• Practice stress relieving techniques.
• Try not to sit or stand for long periods of time.
• Wear good supportive shoes and avoid high heels.
• Try swimming.

Treatment for Joint Pain During Pregnancy

• Use ice or heat
• See an acupuncturist or massage therapist
• Have your partner practice hands on pregnancy pain relief techniques on your body
• Take a warm bath. Try adding Epsom salt to ease aching.

When You Should Call Your Doctor

• Your pain is intense.
• You pain is accompanied by a fever.