Pregnancy Related Low Back Pain

Abstract

Pregnancy related low back pain (LBP) is a common complaint among pregnant women. It can have a negative impact on the life of pregnant women. The goal of this study is to reveal the prevalence of pregnancy related LBP possible risk factor, prevention and methods of treatment. This prospective analytic study conducted in Basrah governorate between January 2013 - January 2014. Pregnant women attended the Primary Health Care Centers and the Gynecological & Obstetric Outpatient Department of the central and peripheral Basrah hospitals were randomly selected regardless their age, gestational age, number of pregnancies, and the presence of pregnancy related LBP. The participants were asked about any history of LBP during the present pregnancy. Further information was obtained and physical examination was done for patients who complained from LBP during present pregnancy, no investigations was done and there was no follow up of patients. A total 500 pregnant women with complete data were recruited. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26 statistical software tool, prevalence was calculated using standard techniques. 162 out of 500 pregnant women complain from LBP during their present pregnancy, with overall prevalence 32.4%. 87 patients (53.7%) presented between 20 - 30 years of age, 91 (56.2%) patients were in 3rd trimester. 117 patients (72.2%) were multipara. In conclusion LBP is one of the most common complaints of women during the pregnancy. For some women it may be the beginning of chronic LBP and for others may be disabling pain during pregnancy and for a variable period postpartum. Early identification and treatment provide the best possible outcome. A correct diagnosis and a differentiation between pelvic girdle pain (PGP) and lumbar pain (LP) are of the great importance.