#thehomebirthjournalentries
“Chasing a toddler around and working long hours carrying photography equipment has really taken a toll on my lower back this pregnancy. Instead of fitting into the narrative of “this is just how my pregnancy is”, I decided to do some research on how I could alleviate the pain.
First and foremost, I always see my chiropractor the same week as my midwife appointment with Jenn. I credit my chiropractor for keeping me upright and moving all the way through my first pregnancy with very little swelling or pain.
Last month I started adding nightly stretches to my daily routine and I have seen a drastic improvement in my lower back. I take 5-10 minutes after my son goes to bed to work on breathing and stretching. The time is short, but the results are plenty.”
In case you need some reasons to start or keep stretching, here are just a few:
- Alleviates Tension: As your body goes through the changes of pregnancy, there can be added stress on the lower back due to the weight of the growing baby and shifts in posture. Stretching helps to release tension in the muscles, promoting relaxation and reducing discomfort.
- Supports Posture: Pregnancy can often lead to changes in posture, such as an increased curvature of the spine. Stretching can help maintain better posture by counteracting these changes and preventing strain on the lower back.
- Pain Relief: Stretching can provide relief by loosening tight muscles and reducing pressure on the lumbar region.
- Prepares for Labor: Certain stretches, such as pelvic tilts and cat-cow stretches, can specifically target the lower back and pelvic region, helping to prepare these areas for the demands of labor and delivery.
Do you need some stretching ideas? Join The Pittsburgh Midwife’s private community, We Can Do It! Pittsburgh Mamas, for more content on how to keep your body moving the whole way during pregnancy. Click the button below to join!
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Tune in next week for another Home Birth Journal entry!