Lower back pain early pregnancy 4 weeks

Pregnancy is different for everyone. Some pregnant women will have lots of symptoms, while others may experience no symptoms at 4 weeks pregnant. A common symptom is lower back pain in early pregnancy. We’ll explain why and give you some tips for dealing with lower back pain at 4 weeks pregnant. 

At 4 weeks pregnant, your little one is the same size as a poppy seed! Who’d have thought something so small could already be causing symptoms? 

This article includes: 

• Pregnancy symptoms 
• What is lower back pain early pregnancy 4 weeks?
• When does lower back pain start in pregnancy? 
• What causes lower back pain early pregnancy 4 weeks? 
• When to seek help for lower back pain during pregnancy
• Tips for reducing lower back pain in early pregnancy 

Pregnancy symptoms 

Often the first sign of pregnancy is a missed period. However, some women have other signs such as cramping at 4 weeks pregnant or even sore breasts. There are many 4 weeks pregnant symptoms that you may experience.

The most accurate way to detect pregnancy is through a home pregnancy test. These tests work by measuring the hCG levels found in the urine. Normal hCG levels at 4 weeks pregnant are different for everyone and can be measured through a blood test. 

What is lower back pain early pregnancy 4 weeks? 

Lower back pain in pregnancy feels similar to when you’re not pregnant. Many women describe the feeling as achy or sharp. It can last for different lengths of time for everyone experiencing it. Back pain can be painful, so if you’re suffering, then you should seek advice.

Back pain can sometimes be mistaken for pelvic girdle pain or PGP. PGP can cause pain on one or both sides of the back, along with other symptoms. 

When does back pain start in pregnancy?

There is no set time when a certain pregnancy symptom will start, or even if it will start at all. Back pain is common in the first trimester as the body prepares to stretch for pregnancy. 

In addition to back pain, this stretching can also cause pelvic pain at 4 weeks pregnant. These symptoms can be nothing to worry about. You should monitor signs and report them to a healthcare provider if they worsen. 

Second or third trimester back pain should be checked fast as it could be an early sign of preterm labor.

What causes lower back pain early pregnancy 4 weeks?

As we mentioned previously, back pain is common in early pregnancy. After all, you’re growing a baby and experiencing a growing uterus and weight gain to support that. 

History of back pain 

Many women experience lower back pain in the first trimester. For some pregnant women, it can occur for no reason. For others, there may be a history of back pain. Suffering from back pain in one pregnancy may put you at greater risk of suffering again in other pregnancies. 

Hormones 

Ahhh, the hormones are back again! Hormones in pregnancy really do cause many changes to the body. The relaxin hormone allows the pelvis joints and ligaments to become softer and the cervix to get wider. This is all necessary to help prepare the body for labour further down the line. 

Joints becoming looser can strain the lower back as it tries harder to support you. Some women also experience a low hard cervix at 4 weeks pregnant. The body goes through many changes some you might not be aware of until they happen. 

Stress 

Stress can cause many issues, including tension in the body. This built-up tension can affect the lower back area. Many people experience weaker muscles in the lower back, so completing exercises to strengthen it is not a bad idea. 

Other factors affecting back pain during pregnancy may include existing health conditions. Speak to your doctor about advice for existing conditions during pregnancy. They may be able to alter your treatment or give you tips for pregnancy and birth. 

When to seek help for lower back pain during pregnancy

Knowing when it’s time to seek help is not always the easiest. When it comes to pregnancy, it’s always better to be safe and get checked out. 

You should seek professional medical advice if you experience – 

• Vaginal bleeding
• Discomfort when visiting the toilet 
• Severe pain in sides of upper body

Unfortunately, some women do experience complications in pregnancy. So although your back pain might not be anything to worry about, it could be something more serious. 

Miscarriage 

Most miscarriages happen in the first trimester of pregnancy. There is support available to those dealing with a miscarriage. If you believe you may be experiencing a miscarriage, seek medical advice. You will be told all of the information you need. 

Signs of a miscarriage can include – 

• Vaginal bleeding 
• Cramping 
• Loss of pregnancy symptoms such as sore breasts and morning sickness

Ectopic pregnancy 

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilised egg is implanted outside of the uterus. This can happen in the fallopian tube. Many can go undetected until a routine pregnancy scan is completed. Seeking advice if you notice the signs is important, as ectopic pregnancy can lead to ruptures. These can be very painful and require surgery. 

Signs of ectopic pregnancy can include – 

• Pelvic pains 
• Bleeding 
• Cramps
• Pains in the shoulder 

Urinary tract infection 

A urine infection can be detected using a urine sample. These infections must be treated to avoid further complications. 

Signs of a UTI include – 

• Pains in the lower stomach 
• Back pain 
• Increased need for urination 
• A burning sensation when passing urine 
• Nausea 

Antibiotics can be used to treat a urine infection. A urine sample is required so the doctor can ensure the antibiotics are safe for you in pregnancy. 

Tips for reducing lower back pain in early pregnancy 

A doctor may advise you on treatment to relieve lower back pain in the early weeks of pregnancy. 

Stretches and exercises 

Gentle exercise is a good idea in pregnancy to keep you healthy and to support your mental health. However, choose your exercises carefully if you are experiencing back pain. Stretches which involve the core and lower back muscles may help to reduce aches. 

Shoes 

Your shoes can do a lot for your posture. In pregnancy, it is very important to wear supportive shoes that fit correctly. Avoid wearing heels, as these can impact your balance and don’t allow for equal weight distribution. 

Warm bath

Having a warm bath every so often can help to relieve muscle tension and help you to relax. So grab your favourite book and have some you time – you deserve it!

Sleep 

Another common pregnancy symptom that you may notice is tiredness. Tiredness can come on quickly during pregnancy. By getting enough rest, you’re giving your body the time it needs to relax and repair. Sometimes back pain can make sleeping difficult, so it might be worth looking into a pregnancy pillow. 

Massage 

Massages are a great way to relax. However, you must ensure the therapist is trained in pregnancy massage before you book. Also, before you have a massage, you may want to speak to your midwife. They can advise you on whether it is safe for your pregnancy. 

Other tips include: 

• Not lifting heavy objects 
• Lifting correctly by bending the knees 
• Maintaining good posture when sitting
• Avoid twisting the spine by stepping when turning

Experiencing back pain during pregnancy is common, but you should seek advice if it gets worse or feels very painful. There’s a lot of extra pressure on your body right now. Talk to your family, friends and midwife if it feels like it’s getting a bit much. Your midwife can give you accurate advice on what to expect. 

We hope that our pain-relieving tips are helpful for you during pregnancy! We bet you can’t wait to meet your baby!